Our Mission

We live in Essex for a variety of reasons, but whatever those reasons we all agree on these: its beauty, its incredible views of both land and water, its charm, its character, its houses and of course, its wonderful history.

The Essex Historical Society was founded in 1954. It operates from two buildings, Hills Academy on Prospect Street and the Pratt House on West Avenue. From these buildings a group of dedicated volunteers work to achieve three main objectives:
  1. to promote an interest in history generally, and particularly the history of the Town of Essex, through educational programs and exhibits.
  2. to establish and maintain museums where books, documents, pictures, furniture, tools, implements, records and the articles associated with the Towns history may be preserved and displayed.
  3. to acquire, maintain, preserve and display objects and historical properties of significance to Essex history.

We feel certain that all who read this will agree with these worthwhile objectives.
The purpose of this is to encourage you to become a member so that the Society continues to truly represent the population of Essex, Centerbrook and Ivoryton. Join friends and neighbors at fascinating lectures on local and Connecticut history, have fun with us in parades such as Trees in the Rigging, attend events at historic houses in Essex, barn dances, theater evenings and enjoy the exhibits at both Pratt House and Hills Academy.
By joining you will work with us to reach our worthwhile objectives. The cost is small, but your support and commitment enormous and fulfilling. You will surely enjoy belonging to an organization whose interests reflect your own.