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West Hartford CT |
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America's first lexicographer, Noah Webster (1758-1843) was born in a farmhouse on the outskirts of Hartford, in what is now West Hartford CT. |
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Today West Hartford is a garden suburb of Hartford, with lots of green lawns, rolling hills, pleasant upscale neighborhoods, and a few significant historical sights, including the boyhood home of Noah Webster. Webster lived here with his strict Calvinist parents and four siblings, helping to work the land until he was 16. He left home to attend Yale on the eve of the American Revolution, and was caught up in the intellectual ferment of the time. West of central Hartford is Webster's boyhood home and a modern museum, the Noah Webster House and Museum (tel 203-521-5362), 227 South Main Street, West Hartford CT. The house, a simple center-chimney colonial dwelling, is furnished authentically in period style, and costumed guides give you a tour and explain what life was like in the America of two centuries ago. There is a garden typical of the period with herbs and dye plants. To reach the house, take I-84 to Exit 41 and follow the signs. |
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