Libraries, Bookstores, & More: Hartford, CT
The Mark Twain House & Museum
The Mark Twain’s House & Museum
“Good Friends, good books, and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life.”- Mark Twain.
These are words to live by. They are also words I couldn’t agree with more. And it is a quote that permeated my thoughts as I walked through the home of Samuel Langhorne Clemens—professionally known by his pen name, Mark Twain. An author, humorist, entrepreneur, publisher, and lecturer, Mark Twain is one of the most recognizable names in literature. And I had the privilege of visiting the place where he wrote some of his works—in his home, The Mark Twain House & Museum. Located in the city of Hartford, Connecticut.
Home to some of America’s most revered literary minds, the city of Hartford, Connecticut lends insight to not only our nation’s Colonial and Victorian history, but also the lives of some of the greatest American authors of our time. Like other colonial settlements, the first inhabitants of Hartford were that of the Podunk Native Americans. With the arrival of the first fur trading post from the people of New Amsterdam, known now as New Yorkers, in 1623, the eventual expansion would lead to the Dutch, New Netherland colony. 1635 saw the arrival of English settlers from the Massachusetts Bay area; and by 1637, the city of Hartford was born. In time, the city grew to become one of the most prosperous cities in the nation.
Tucked away in the Nook Farm neighborhood of Hartford at the top of a hill, sits the illustrious home of Mark Twain. Boasting 11,500 square feet and 25 rooms, sprawled across three grand floors, the home of Mark Twain was designed by New York architect, Edward Tuckerman. It was fitted, not only with the best that the Victorian Era had to offer, but with the finest adornments and intricacies you would expect from a man of his standing to possess.
So, what does one get out of visiting the home of one of America’s literary finest? If you take the tour with a historic guide, like we did, you get the chance to be transported back into the life, mind, and history of Mr. Twain. During our visit, I thoroughly enjoyed the tour we received with his “daughter,” Susy Clemens. As a writer and author, taking a walk through his family home was invigorating, and humanized the man—separating myth from legend. While there, not only did I see where Mark Twain wrote his works, but through the eyes of his daughter, I learned the idiosyncrasies of who he truly was—one, Samuel Langhorne Clemens.
Although the home is a living museum itself, the grounds also host a small exhibition hall filled with the art and work of artists and writers of varying backgrounds and creed. If you’re in the mood for a new book, head downstairs to the museum’s store. From clothing and knick knacks geared toward even the pickiest bibliophile, to books that the whole family can enjoy, there is something for everyone at the museum’s gift shop. So, buy a book…or a few.
For The Kids
Despite the array of children’s gifts within the gift shop, I wouldn’t recommend this destination for small children. Considering the architecture and integrity of the home as a living museum, filled with artifacts and original materials of Twain and his family, tiny hands should not be around. Let’s face it, even the most well behaved young one can become enthralled with the need to touch lovely things. With that said, I believe that this visit would be better suited for children ages 12 and up. This is especially true for those who are fans of his novel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
The Neighbor
The most wonderful thing about visiting living museums, is the history you learn along the way. So, imagine my surprise when I realized whom Mark Twain’s famous neighbor was. An avid abolitionist and moderate suffragette, she was one of the most prolific novelists of her time. Some may argue that her most famous novel (or infamous), fed the flames to what would become the American Civil War. Did you guess the author? If you’re thinking about the writer of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe, then you are correct. Known to those who loved her as Hattie, Stowe was one of the most influential novelists of her time.
Like The Mark Twain House & Museum, the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center is a living museum that marks a period within the author’s life. There you can learn of her interest and family history, to include her myriad of talents as an artist, author, essayist, and speaker.
As with her neighbor, I do not recommend this book lover adventure for small children. While both ventures offer general house tours with a guide, the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center does not offer a “living history tour” with a historic character, like The Mark Twain House & Museum. Also, visitors to the Hartford area should also keep in mind that it is best to purchase tickets online for both author’s homes. Please note, that if you choose to visit one home over the other, they each provide their own parking for guests.
Where to Take Your Book
Although Hartford is a place filled with history and culture, you may not need to look any further than The Mark Twain House & Museum café to enjoy your book. At The Nook Café, you can enjoy a treat of assorted drinks, sandwiches, and baked goods, while you take time to read the writings of some of America’s greatest literary masters.
Another place to visit is Bushnell Park. Filled with a landscape of mature trees, sculptures, and an abundance of sitting areas, there are lots of nooks one can find to have a leisurely read. If you want a break from reading and are in the Hartford area during the winter, the park offers free ice skating for families to enjoy. However, come early because slots fill up quickly. Another great attraction to visit in the park is the Bushnell Park Carousel—there you can get your fill of rides on an old-fashioned carousel for $2. Hot chocolate and snacks are also sold there for a reasonable price. With a playground right next door, the kiddos can let off some much-needed steam and energy. And while winter offers a variety of activities for all to enjoy, summers at the Performance Pavilion gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy concerts and live theatre outdoors.
Wadsworth Atheneum
If you’re looking for something that’s just for the kids, then head over to the Connecticut Science Center where your little ones can act as scientists for the day. The center is filled with a myriad of activities and exhibits that can keep young ones busy for hours. Our favorite by far was the Butterfly Exhibit. If your children still have energy to burn, then head over to The Children’s Museum.
In need of a slower and more relaxed pace for the day? Then the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum and Elizabeth Park Conservancy is for you. At the Wadsworth, you can surround yourself with the beauty of both contemporary and European art through the ages. While the Elizabeth Park Conservancy allows for a stroll in beautiful and lush botanical garden. I should note that if you are a Bank Of America card holder, the first weekend of the month allows you to enter both the Connecticut Science Center and Wadsworth Atheneum Museum for free.
Treats and Eats
Nothing tells you more about a city than its places to eat and be merry. Like many other cities, Hartford offers some great places to grab not only a quick bite, but a fine meal. During our visit, we took to West Farms Mall. Located in West Hartford, the shopping center is fitted with luxury shops and some fine dining options. During our visit, we had a wonderful dinner at Brio Italian Grille and tea at The Green Teahouse. If downtown, we recommend Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ.
Places to Stay
There are many options in respect to where to sleep during your trip. If able, you try your hand at the Goodwin Hotel. As one of Connecticut’s most romantic hotel destinations, the beautiful décor and architecture would entice anyone into a quiet slumber. Another option is the Silas W. Robbins House. As a late 19th century-built home, the unique bed and breakfast offers stately rooms and beautiful grounds for you to enjoy. Lastly, if you are looking for some of the best that Hartford has to offer, then try a stay at The Simsbury Inn.
So…take a visit into the city of Hartford, Connecticut. New England’s rising star. And indulge yourself in the sights, and history of some of America’s literary wonders.
