There is always something to see at NHMHS! The Historical Society's museum consists of four on-going exhibition galleries devoted to topics in New Haven history and three temporary galleries that display specially themed exhibitions. There is also artwork and decorative arts displayed throughout the public areas of the building and occasional rotating mini-exhibitions in our first floor rotunda. Call ahead for a complete listing of current offerings.

ON-GOING EXHIBITIONS:

New Haven Illustrated: Colony, Town, and City is a gallery dedicated to providing visitors with an overview of New Haven's 350+ year history. It's an excellent orientation exhibit for all visitors who want to learn about New Haven's colorful past -- from the Quinnipiac Indians to Mayor Lee and redevelopment -- this gallery hits the highlights. There are some special collections on display here: Eli Whitney's cotton gin; George Henry Durrie artwork; New Haven area decorative arts; and manufactured goods from well known companies such as Winchester Repeating Arms and the A.C. Gilbert Company. 

^{Judges Cave, G.H.Durrie, 1856}

Cinque Lives Here: Amistad Artifacts in the Collections of the New Haven Museum and Historical Society is an exhibition that showcases the largest collection of Amistad related artwork in the world. The gallery chronicles the events of the 1839 revolt and subsequent legal case that was one of the defining moments in anti-slavery movement. Made famous by a 1997 Hollywood movie, the true story of the Amistad can be found here. Argueably one of the most unique portraits in America, Nathaniel Jocelyn's Portrait of Joseph Cinque, captures the poetic struggle of two cultures working together for freedom and justice.

                                         ^{Joseph Cinque, Nathaniel Jocelyn, c.1840}

Maritime New Haven illustrates New Haven's connections to the sea. The West Indies and China trades are just two important economic enterprises that enlivened New Haven harbor. There are images and artifacts relating to the oyster industry and steamship era as well. The famous 1812 naval battle between the U.S.S. Constitution and the British frigate Guerriere can be seen in a rare, four painting series hanging in this gallery. 

^{Bark Sparkling Sea Leaving Messina,}

^{William Bygrave, 1860}

The Ingersoll Room is a lush period room combining fine and decorative arts from New Haven's Ingersoll family. Eighteenth and nineteenth century portraits and furniture bring together a story of a notable historical family and their home and life in New Haven.