Step into a world where history and architecture intertwine at the Civic Institutions Historic District in New London, Connecticut. This charming enclave, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a testament to the city's commitment to caring for its community. Spanning seven acres, the district features six contributing buildings, each with its own story to tell. From almshouses to hospitals, these structures capture the essence of late 19th and early 20th-century social welfare and medical care.
Situated on the western edge of New London’s urban core, the Civic Institutions Historic District is a hidden gem awaiting discovery. The area is bisected by Garfield Avenue, with historic buildings lining both sides. This district was developed between 1867 and 1917, during a time when the city sought to address the needs of its indigent population and improve public health services. The result is a collection of buildings that reflect both the architectural styles and social priorities of their time.
On the south side of Garfield Avenue stands the former New London Almshouse, a striking brick building that has seen two distinct phases of development. The original section, constructed around 1867, showcases the Italianate style, characterized by its elegant masonry and thoughtful design. This early construction was partially funded by Jonathan Newton Harris, a prominent businessman and former mayor. Fast forward fifty years, and the almshouse was expanded with a new main building, designed in the Colonial Revival style by local architect James Sweeney. This addition was made possible by a generous bequest from Sebastian Duffy Lawrence. Today, the building has been transformed into Briarwood Court, a condominium complex that preserves its historical charm.
Crossing to the north side of Garfield Avenue, you’ll find the original Memorial Hospital building, a cornerstone of New London’s medical history. Built in 1892, with an additional wing added in 1893, the hospital was a beacon of hope for the city’s sick and injured. Funded by Jonathan Newton Harris, the hospital’s Queen Anne style architecture is a nod to the era’s aesthetic preferences. Behind the main building, facing Walden Street, is a dormitory for nurses constructed in 1901 in the Colonial Revival style. This facility served the community until 1918 when it merged with Lawrence Hospital to form what is now Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. The original hospital buildings have since been repurposed for residential use, maintaining their historical integrity.
Facing Colman Street is the Mitchell Isolation Hospital, a single-story Colonial Revival structure completed in 1914. This facility was designed to segregate patients with highly infectious diseases, such as smallpox and tuberculosis. The hospital's construction was funded by Annie Olivia Mitchell, a philanthropist with ties to the illustrious Tiffany family. Her nephew, Donald Grant Mitchell Jr., oversaw the building’s completion. The design was inspired by the isolation building of the former Providence City Hospital. Although the Mitchell Isolation Hospital closed in 1953, its legacy as a pioneer in infectious disease care lives on.
The Civic Institutions Historic District is more than just a collection of buildings; it is a reflection of New London’s commitment to its citizens. The architectural styles represented here, including Queen Anne and Colonial Revival, are beautifully preserved, offering a window into the past. These structures are not only architectural marvels but also monuments to the philanthropic spirit that drove their creation. Generous donations from individuals like Jonathan Newton Harris, Sebastian Duffy Lawrence, and Annie Olivia Mitchell played a crucial role in bringing these institutions to life.
Visitors to the Civic Institutions Historic District can enjoy a leisurely stroll through this picturesque area, appreciating the architectural details and historical significance of each building. While the interiors have been adapted for modern use, the exteriors remain largely unchanged, preserving the district’s historical ambiance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone looking to explore a unique part of New London, this district offers a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be uncovered.
In conclusion, the Civic Institutions Historic District is a testament to New London’s dedication to social welfare and public health. Its buildings stand as enduring symbols of the city’s past, each with a story that contributes to the broader narrative of community care and architectural excellence. A visit to this district is not just a journey through history, but a celebration of the enduring legacy of compassion and innovation in New London.
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