The New Canaan
Museum & Historical Society
is a cultural institution that focuses on preservation, modernism, education and community. Through exhibits, programs, library services and events, we celebrate history and explore its role in shaping the future.
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Please join us for a guided gallery talk
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 11:00am

Curators Arianne Kolb and Micaela Porta will be leading a gallery tour of the current exhibition, Women of Waveny: Artists, Patrons, and the Lapham Legacy, which highlights two renowned, innovative artists and three enlightened patrons.
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Become a Member Today!
Members enjoy unlimited access to exhibitions, house museums, and the research library, as well as free admission to most programs and events.

We encourage you to join and support our mission.
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Women of Waveny
Artists, Patrons, and the Lapham Legacy

On view November 12, 2021 - March 31, 2022
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2021 Landmark Ornaments
This year we celebrate the Pandemic Heroes' of Our Town.

They represent iconic organizations, businesses, and symbols that made us smile as we all got through the pandemic.
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Experience Modern New Canaan

New Canaan is widely known for its mid-century modern architecture. These houses, designed in the decades after World War II by architects including Marcel Breuer, Elliot Noyes, and Philip Johnson, shaped the landscape of this Town. The Modern New Canaan initiative at the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society brings together programs, events, and tours that celebrate, appreciate, and preserve this important legacy.

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VISIT

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society owns or operates eight historic buildings, including: The 1764 Hanford-Silliman House, the 1960 Gores Pavilion, and the 1878 Rogers Studio. View a map of our Buildings and learn more about these important museum properties.
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EXPLORE

The Town of New Canaan is famous for mid-century modern architecture and a significant number of antique and historical homes over 100 years old. Our extensive research library and records collection is a comprehensive and well organized resource. Learn more about our historic houses and library.
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ENGAGE

For the young or the young at heart, we are open to all and eager to share the incredible resources. Whether you want to visit, become a member, volunteer or simply experience the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society, we welcome you to get involved.
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News & Events

News & Events

Exhibitions

August Simon painting of a yellow house

Augusta Simon: Town House

New Canaan artist Augusta Simon’s colorful paintings include Saint Aloysius Church, the Train Station, and Birdsall House, as well as scenes of carolers on God’s Acre and the fishing derby in Mead Park. Together, the collection is a nostalgic look at bucolic New Canaan.

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Pewter Collection: Hanford Silliman House

One of the finest of the many collections in the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society is the Pewter Collection. It consists of more than 150 pieces of American, English, Oriental and Continental (European) pewter. 

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Pewter Collection hutch of dish-ware

Rogers Studio Sculptures: Rogers Studio

John Rogers, Jr. (1829-1904) was the most popular sculptor in United States history. Between 1860 and 1893, Americans purchased approximately 80,000 of his putty-colored plaster “Rogers Groups” at an average price of $14.00. These realistic works, which celebrated military, theater and domestic scenes, were fixtures in every Victorian parlor. His 1878 Studio, now relocated to the campus, is a National Register Landmark building.

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Get Involved

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Plan Your Visit

Admission

Admission is free to members.

The cost for visitors:

  • $5 for exhibitions
  • $10 for Library usage
  • $25 for a full campus tour

(Please call or email to schedule.)

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Getting Here

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society is located at 13 Oenoke Ridge in New Canaan. It is walking distance from the New Canaan Train Station, which is serviced by Metro-North.

Accessibility

The Town House is wheelchair accessible with an elevator that connects all three floors. Please contact the office if you are interested in visiting the historic houses and need accommodations.

Museum Services

Learn about research assistance, site rental and room usage information and the historic house Plaque Program.