First Church of Christ and Ancient Burying Ground, Hartford (must see)

The oldest church in Hartford was the First Church of Christ, founded by Thomas Hooker in 1636. The building itself was erected in 1807 as a tribute to Hooker, who is known as the Father of Connecticut.

Visitors cannot enter the church as it remains locked when services are not in session. However, exploring the exterior of the the First Church of Christ shows a stunning structure that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Lovers of architecture will recognize the Classical Revival design that was based off of the Church of Saint Martin in London.

The Ancient Burying Ground is the oldest historic site in Hartford. Visitors can walk through the grounds during daylight hours where they will observe gravestones dating to 1640. Interred at the Ancient Burying Ground are Thomas Hooker, founder of Connecticut; colonial governors William Leete and Joseph Talcott; English Royal Colonial Governor, John Haynes; and Jeremiah Wadsworth, delegate to the Continental Congress from Connecticut.

Tourists can guide themselves around the church and burying ground or they can sign up for a guided tour. The gates are open every day between 9AM and 5PM unless weather causes disruption. It is an excellent location for an easy, yet meaningful trip to the past.

Thanks to the central location, the First Church of Christ and Ancient Burying Ground are perfect choices for all visitors to the city. They are only blocks from the Connecticut River and Constitution Plaza. Both are accessible by a short walk from Bushnell Park.

Why You Should Visit:
Any lover of history should not let a trip to Hartford pass without a visit to the Ancient Burying Ground. As it is the oldest structure of its type in the state, there is no substitution for this solemn, yet meaningful visit.

Tips:
Plan the trip to the First Church of Christ and Ancient Burying Ground around any trips to Bushnell Park. It is a short distance and well worth the walk. There is no charge for the outdoor, self-guided visit.