Two Floors to Visit

New in 2023: Our first floor exhibit space introduces visitors to the history of Chester’s water-powered industries, with a new large touch screen about “The Pattaconk & Its Mills."

Using waterpower, nearly 90 businesses formed, closed or persevered at 20 sites along the two branches of the Pattaconk Brook that ran west-to-east, joining at the Town Center. 

The exhibit is a work in progress. Currently it’s possible to see where the 20 sites were located, through a timeline of each site, as well as explore the history and products of 10 of the sites, including the Bates, Brooks, Deuse and Silliman factories. There is much more to be researched, written, designed and uploaded in coming months.

Additionally, visitors can browse our display cases of “Made in Chester” items.

On the second floor (reachable by stairs or elevator) is the award-winning, long-term exhibit,  “Streams of Change: Life & Industry along the Pattaconk.”  The exhibit interprets the growth and evolution of Chester and how the town adapted over 300 years.  This exhibit won the 2011 "Leadership in History Award of Merit for Exhibits" from the American Association for State & Local History, and the 2011 "Award of Merit for Exhibits" from the Connecticut League of Historical Organizations. This exhibit is annually refreshed and renewed with new features.