Farmington Historical Society

Farmington Historical Society and Its Mission

The Farmington Historical Society was established in 1954 with the goal of researching and teaching Farmington history. It gathers and conserves artifacts and records pertaining to the, area’s past. They provide exhibits, lectures, and other activities. They also offer tours of the Amistad and Underground Railroad locations along the Freedom Trail.

Farmington’s Role in the Underground Railroad

Farmington celebrates its rich history, shaped by diverse groups and significant contributions. Farmington played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, earning the nickname “Grand Central Station” due to its active abolitionist community. Local figures such as Horace Cowles, Elijah Lewis, John Treadwell Norton, Samuel and Catherine Deming, and Austin Williams provided shelter and assistance to individuals who were enslaved and labeled as fugitives, aiding their journey to freedom.

The Amistad Captives in Farmington

In addition, the 38 Africans set free in the Amistad case are part of the town’s legacy. From March to November 1841, Farmington, Connecticut, housed the African Mende captives who had rebelled on the slave-ship La Amistad. Originally from Sierra Leone, the 53 captives were taken to Cuba and then sold for plantation labor.

In 1839, they rebelled at sea and navigated to Long Island, New York, where they were captured by the USS Washington and jailed in New Haven, Connecticut. Their legal battle, culminating in a Supreme Court case argued by John Quincy Adams, lasted 18 months. On March 9, 1841, the Court ruled them free. They then arrived in Farmington, where abolitionists supported them with housing, education, and fundraising for their return to Africa. The Mende demonstrated loyalty, gratitude, and a willingness to learn and work toward their passage home.

This site is open to the public.