Strickland Road Historic District photo
ParkConnecticut, US

Strickland Road Historic District

The Strickland Road Historic District offers a journey through early American history and architecture.

About

The Strickland Road Historic District offers a journey through early American history and architecture.

This charming nine-acre historic district in the Cos Cob section of Greenwich, Connecticut, is a beautifully preserved residential area renowned for its architectural diversity and historical significance. Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places since 1990, it showcases over 200 years of building styles, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the evolution of an 18th-century maritime center into a tranquil residential enclave.

The district's crown jewel is the Bush-Holley House, a c. 1740 Dutch Colonial home and a National Historic Landmark, which served as a hub for the famous Cos Cob art colony. Beyond this iconic structure, the streetscape features a rich tapestry of architectural styles, including well-preserved Colonial and Federal homes, stately Victorian houses, and early 20th-century Bungalow/Craftsman and Tudor Revival residences. The presence of the historic tidal millpond adds to the scenic beauty and historical depth, reflecting the area's past as a bustling "Lower Landing."

A visit to the Strickland Road Historic District provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in American architectural history and the rich cultural heritage of Cos Cob. It's a place where history comes alive through its meticulously maintained structures, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls, architectural admiration, and photography. The district's cohesive yet diverse character makes it a memorable destination for anyone interested in the past. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.

The Strickland Road Historic District, encompassing the area historically known as the "Lower Landing," began as a vibrant maritime transportation center in the 18th century. Settled first by Dutch and later English colonists, the area flourished, attracting sea captains and tradesmen who built many of the district's early, finer homes. The Bush-Holley House, built around 1740, stands as a testament to this period, initially serving as a merchant's home. The district's importance as a port waned in the mid-19th century with the advent of the railroad, leading to its transformation into a residential community. Later, from the 1890s to the 1920s, the Bush-Holley House became the epicenter of the Cos Cob art colony, attracting prominent American Impressionist painters and writers. This evolution from a bustling maritime hub to an artistic retreat and then a residential haven is beautifully preserved in the diverse architectural styles that line Strickland Road, showcasing 200 years of regional development and cultural shifts.

What to do here

Walk along Strickland Road to admire the historic homes and their varied architectural details. Consider a guided tour of the Bush-Holley House to learn about its past as a merchant's home and a creative hub for the Cos Cob Art Colony. Enjoy the serene views of the millpond.

Seasonal info

Spring/Summer: Gardens around the homes may be in bloom; pleasant for walking.

Fall: Spectacular fall foliage in Connecticut provides a colorful backdrop to the historic buildings.

Winter: Historic homes under a blanket of snow offer a classic New England scene.

Accessibility

The district primarily consists of public roads and sidewalks. While the street itself is generally accessible, individual historic homes may have limited accessibility due to their age and preservation status. The Greenwich Historical Society's campus, including the Bush-Holley House, may offer specific accessibility information.

Don't miss

1

Bush-Holley House

The centerpiece of the district, offering tours of its historic interiors, American Impressionist art, and exhibits on Greenwich history.

2

Architectural Diversity

The wide range of styles from Colonial to Tudor Revival provides a living museum of American architecture.

3

Tidal Millpond

A historic landmark reflecting the area's maritime past.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The best way to experience the district is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the architectural details and historical ambiance.

Bring a camera

The diverse architecture, historic streetscapes, and the Bush-Holley House provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Check Bush-Holley House tour times

If you wish to visit the interior of the Bush-Holley House, confirm tour schedules in advance as they are docent-led and have specific timings.

Respect private property

Remember that many of the historic homes are private residences; please admire them from the public sidewalk.

Look for historical markers

Keep an eye out for any plaques or markers that provide additional historical context about specific buildings or the district as a whole.

Combine with other local attractions

The district is in Cos Cob, Greenwich, which offers other attractions. Consider visiting the Greenwich Historical Society's entire campus or other local parks.

Frequently asked questions

The Bush-Holley House, built around 1740, is a National Historic Landmark and the most significant building in the district. It is central to the Greenwich Historical Society's campus and is renowned for its role as a boarding house for the Cos Cob art colony, attracting American Impressionist painters and writers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Strickland Road Historic District boasts a diverse array of architectural styles spanning over two centuries, from approximately 1740 to 1934. Visitors can see examples of Colonial, Federal, Second Empire, Italianate, Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Bungalow/Craftsman, and Tudor Revival styles, primarily in wood-frame construction.
Yes, the Strickland Road Historic District is a public thoroughfare, making its historic streetscape freely accessible for viewing the exteriors of the homes. The Bush-Holley House, part of the Greenwich Historical Society, is open for docent-led tours during specific hours, offering access to its interiors and art collections.

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