Colonial and Revolutionary War History of Lebanon Connecticut Walking Tour

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Established in 1965, the Lebanon Historical Society works to preserve and promote the town's rich history, particularly during the Colonial period and the Revolutionary War (the town was one of the largest and most important towns in the state in that era; Governor Johnathan Trumbull lived here). It operates a museum campus with historic and replica buildings, and houses a collection consisting of historical artifacts and other items dating from the late 1600s to the mid-1900s. The historic buildings include the Beaumont House, Pastor's House, Broom Shop, and the Smoke House. The two replica buildings are the Hearse House and the Privy & Woodshed. The Society also offers a number of events throughout the year including lectures, family-friendly events, and an annual antique show.

2. William Williams House

This historic home is significant for being the residence of merchant, judge, politician, and signer of the Declaration of Independence, William Williams (1731-1811). It was designed in the Greek Revival style and has remained largely unaltered. The house is a private residence but it is easily viewed from the street. It is a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

3. Governor Jonathan Trumbull House

A National Historic Landmark, this Colonial-era house is significant for being the residence of Governor Jonathan Trumbull (1710-1785), who was the only Colonial governor to support the Americans in the Revolutionary War. Built around 1735, the house is also notable for being the birthplace of Johnathan's son, John (1756-1843), who would become known as the "Painter of the Revolution." Four of his paintings, including the well-known "Declaration of Independence," are on display in the U.S. Capitol building rotunda. The house, which is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is owned and operated by the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution. Another historic building on the property is the Wadsworth Stable. It is named after Jeremiah Wadsworth, who hosted the first meeting between George Washington and French General Rochambeau at his estate. During the meeting, Washington kept his horses in the stable, which was relocated here in 1954.

4. Revolutionary War Office

This historic building holds tremendous significance to Connecticut's history and the history of the American Revolution. It was here that Governor Johnathan Trumbull oversaw matters pertaining to the Revolutionary War as well as his personal business. It is located just up the road from his house, which is a National Historic Landmark (see the link below to Trumbull House on Clio). The War Office was built around 1732 by Jonathan's father, Joseph, who was also a merchant. Well over one thousand meetings of the War Council of Connecticut, which was also called the Council of Safety, met here during the conflict. It was formed to assist the governor when the state assembly was not in session.

This Tour is a Walking Tour.

Colonial and Revolutionary War History of Lebanon Connecticut Walking Tour

Created by Clio Admin on January 29th 2019, 8:38:43 pm.

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Description

This tour begins at the Lebanon Historical Society and includes several historic homes and buildings from the colonial period that were home to momentous events during the American Revolution. The tour includes the home of Declaration of Independence signer William Williams, the home of patriot and colonial governor Jonathan Trumbull, and the office where Trumbull and other Connecticut supporters of the revolution met to plan the defense of Connecticut and neighboring communities. Leading figures of the era, including George Washington, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Henry Knox met with Trumbull and other Connecticut patriots at this office.

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Colonial and Revolutionary War History of Lebanon Connecticut Walking Tour

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