Putnam Memorial State Park

429 Black Rock Turnpike

Redding

203-938-2285

Hours:

8:00 a.m. - Sunset

Museum Hours:

Weekdays 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Weekends and Holidays 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Putnam Memorial State Park

Putnam Memorial State Park

Putnam Memorial State Park offers a window into America’s Revolutionary heritage. Named for Israel Putnam, an American army general who fought in distinction at the Battle of Bunker Hill, the state park is the site of Putnam’s Continental Army encampment during the 1778-79 winter. Although Putnam never quite attained the national renown of famous heroes like Davy Crockett, he was known far beyond Connecticut's borders through the circulation of folk legends celebrating his exploits.

Today, visitors will find historic structures including ruins, reconstructed buildings and monuments. An interpretive museum contains exhibits and historical material related to the encampments and stands on the site of the original picket post. Historical monuments of importance include two miniature blockhouses set at the entrance of the park common to frontier forts during the Revolutionary War, an 1888 stone obelisk commemorating the encampment, and a recently restored pavilion which is the oldest structure in the Connecticut state park system. In 2000, Putnam Memorial State Park was declared the first State Archaeological Reserve, assuring future generations the opportunity to make their own Revolutionary War discoveries. In addition to the historical sites, visitors can enjoy seasonal activities such as picnicking, fishing, an interpretive trail and ice skating.

Activities

• Historic
• Interpretive activities
• Museum
• Fishing
• Picnicking
• Camping
• Ice Skating