Downtown New London Historic District

Step into the enchanting world of the Downtown New London Historic District, a captivating area brimming with rich history and architectural splendor. Nestled along the picturesque waterfront of New London, Connecticut, this 78-acre district is home to 222 contributing buildings that paint a vivid picture of the city's storied past.

Bank Street: A Journey Through Time

Bank Street, aptly named for its position atop the bank of the Thames River, is one of New London's oldest sections. Once dominated by fishing wharves and tall ships, this historic street has witnessed significant events, including Benedict Arnold's infamous raid during the American Revolutionary War in 1781. Despite the destruction, the waterfront was rebuilt, and today, Bank Street is a vibrant hub of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Among the historic gems on Bank Street is the Shaw Mansion, built in 1753, which served as the Connecticut Navy Headquarters during the American Revolution. Another notable building is the Bukeley House, constructed in 1796 by a man who served with the legendary John Paul Jones. These 18th-century structures stand as testaments to the area's resilience and historical significance.

Bank Street is also home to several 19th-century buildings, such as the New London Customhouse, built in 1833. This customhouse holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operated customhouse in the United States. Another remarkable building is the Brown House, constructed in 1833 in the Federal/Greek Revival style for Benjamin Brown, using granite quarried from the ledge behind the house.

State Street: A Stroll Through Architectural Marvels

State Street, running east-west through the district, is lined with an array of 19th-century buildings that showcase diverse architectural styles. One of the oldest buildings in the area is the 1787 New London County Courthouse, a separately designated National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) site that stands proudly at the head of State Street.

Among the architectural treasures on State Street is the First Church of Christ (Congregational), a Gothic Revival structure built in 1850 by Leopold Eidlitz. Although the spire collapsed in 2024, the church remains an important part of the district's history. Another notable building is the First Baptist Church, designed in the Italianate style by William T. Hallett in 1856.

State Street also boasts Eidlitz's Romanesque Revival Harris Place, a mixed-use building constructed in 1885. This building housed offices, luxury apartments, and the Hislop, Porteus & Mitchell department store. Lyric Hall, designed by James Sweeney in 1898, once featured a small theater used for lectures and music and dance recitals.

Other significant buildings on State Street include the Thames Club, designed by Ewing & Chappell in 1905, and the Beaux-Arts New London City Hall, also known as the Municipal Building, designed by James Sweeney in 1912. The 1930 Greek Revival bank building at 250 State Street and the Lena Building (originally J.N. Harris Building) from 1884-1885 add to the architectural diversity of the area.

Green Street and Beyond: Hidden Historical Treasures

Just off State Street lies Green Street, officially laid out in 1787. This charming neighborhood is home to buildings dating from 1760 to 1792, many of which survived Benedict Arnold's torch. One of the notable buildings on Green Street is Dutch's Tavern, also known as The Dutch, housed in a 1760 building that was a favorite watering spot of Eugene O'Neill.

The Richard Douglass House, located at 79 Green Street, dates back to around 1801. Richard Douglass, a veteran of the American Revolution, once called this house home, and it remains a private residence to this day. The nearby Starr Street District features a collection of row houses built in the early 1800s, adding to the area's historic charm.

A Glimpse into the Past

The Downtown New London Historic District offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the architectural and historical treasures that define this vibrant area. From the bustling Bank Street to the stately buildings of State Street and the hidden gems of Green Street, this district is a testament to New London's rich heritage.

As you wander through the district, you'll discover stories of resilience, innovation, and community spirit that have shaped New London into the city it is today. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Downtown New London Historic District promises an unforgettable journey through time.