Francis Gillette House

Francis Gillette (1807-1879), a prominent abolitionist and politician, sheltered slaves on the Underground Railroad in this home during the early years of the movement. He held numerous State positions throughout his lifetime, including U.S. Senator and chairman of the Connecticut Board of Education (1849-65). As a member of the state legislature in 1838, he advocated for the black vote and condemned the “Canterbury Law,” which forbade the education of blacks.  This home is on the National Register of Historic Places, is privately owned and not open to the public.