The Historical Depths of Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby, CT
Image from the Connecticut Historical Society
In the charming town of East Granby, Connecticut, Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine is a unique landmark steeped in rich history. This site, recognized as the first chartered copper mine (1707) and the first state prison (1773) in early America, offers a fascinating glimpse into over three centuries of history. From its origins as a copper mine to its notorious days as a prison, and now as a popular tourist attraction, Old New-Gate is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Birth of a Copper Mine
The story of Old New-Gate begins in 1705 when the area was still part of the town of Simsbury. Sixty-four residents formed the first chartered copper mining company in America, using the mine’s revenues to fund town expenses and hire a schoolmaster. However, by 1773, the copper deposits had become harder to find, and mining profits dwindled.
From Mine to Prison
In 1773, the Connecticut General Assembly decided to convert the mine’s labyrinth of caves and shafts into a prison. This decision was influenced by changing public views on capital and corporal punishment, as there was a growing desire to find alternative ways to punish lawbreakers. The colony purchased the remaining years of a mining lease and installed an iron gate near the surface of one of the shafts, preparing New-Gate for its first prisoner.
Life Inside New-Gate Prison
New-Gate's first prisoner, John Hinson, arrived on December 22, 1773. Despite escaping 18 days later, the prison continued to grow, housing thieves, counterfeiters, murderers, and even Tories (those sympathetic to the British cause during the Revolutionary War). The prison complex expanded over the years, with the addition of guardhouses, workshops, and a 12-foot-high stone wall to improve security.
Daily life for prisoners involved hard labor. Initially, they mined copper, but as this proved too dangerous, they were put to work making nails. By the time the prison closed in 1827, inmates were employed in various trades, including shoemaking, coopering, blacksmithing, and wagon making.
The Dark Reality of Imprisonment
Despite improvements, the conditions at New-Gate were notoriously harsh. Prisoners were housed in the damp, dreary mines at night, where they often planned escapes and shared illicit skills. Former prisoner and master counterfeiter William Stuart described the mines as infested with fleas, lice, and bedbugs, with floors covered in filth.
Closure and New Beginnings
By 1827, the prison's reputation for poor security and inhumane conditions led to its closure, and inmates were transferred to the newly constructed Wethersfield State Prison. Over the following decades, the site saw renewed attempts at mining and even served as a private residence.
A Historic Landmark and Tourist Attraction
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Old New-Gate evolved into a tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in Connecticut’s colonial past. Today, Old New-Gate operates as a history museum, offering a self-guided tour through the prison yard, historic ruins, and the copper mine. Visitors can also explore the Old New-Gate Museum of Art, featuring exhibits from the Community Partners in Action's Prison Arts Program and the Connecticut Hall of Change.
Visiting Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine
Hours:
Friday to Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Dates of Operation:
May - October, with special hours in October
Pricing:
Adults: $10
Seniors (65+): $8
Youth (6-17): $5
Children (5 and under): Free
Active Military: Free
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine is more than just a historical site; it’s a place where visitors can engage with the past, reflect on issues of justice and preservation, and appreciate the complexities of history. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Old New-Gate promises a captivating journey through time.
