One of the thirteen colonies and the cradle of our nation’s industrial revolution, Connecticut is home to a rich history, telling a story of civic action, social justice, innovation and manufacturing. As a former history teacher, I recognize the need to invest in a strong social studies curriculum. I traveled across the District this week to discuss the progress we’ve made in Congress to preserve Connecticut’s history.

I partnered with the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History and other civic-minded organizations across the state to create a network of educational experiences in the State of Connecticut and be a model for other states to promote a culture of civic engagement. I spoke with WNPR’s Ray Hardman about how our Educating for Democracy Project will offer new learning opportunities for up to 100,000 K-12 students across the state! Listen below: 

East Granby is home to early America’s first state prison, the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine. Hosting 11,000 visitors from all 50 states annually, Old New-Gate Prison tells the story of prisoners during the American Revolution and people who were formerly incarcerated and went on to make a positive impact in their community. I helped secure a new $750,000 grant from the National Park Service to enhance the visitor experience and re-open their historic Viets Tavern to the public. 

Connecticut Commissioner of Economic and Community Development Alexandra Daum, Rep. Larson, Senator Richard Blumenthal, State Rep. Tami Zawistowski, Connecticut Director of Arts, Preservation, and Museums Liz Shapiro, Old New-Gate Prison Curator Morgan Bengley, and East Granby First Selectwoman Eden Wimpfheimer 

Yesterday, I announced $1 million in new federal funding to restore the Colt Gardener’s Cottage and Carriage House at Colt Park in Hartford. Coltsville was the home of the Colt Firearms Company that was a major contributor to the industrial revolution by pioneering the use of interchangeable parts and precision manufacturing. In 2014, my legislation to officially authorize Coltsville as a National Historical Park was signed into law by President Obama. Restoring these structures for public use moves us one step closer to realizing the vision of the park. 

Rep. Larson, Colt Park Foundation Chair Donna Swarr, Coltsville National Historical Park Superintendent Kelly Fellner, Coltsville Heritage Partnership Chair Lynn Ferrari, Mayor Bronin, Councilman Amilcar Hernandez, and Lorie Sedor   

To follow what I’m working on both in Washington and in Connecticut, visit my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or follow me on Instagram.     

Regards,

John B. Larson
Member of Congress