Smith-Harris House

The Smith-Harris House is a Colonial-era dwelling in Connecticut that retains its original stone-walled pastures and traditional barn on the grounds. The residence preserves its period furnishings and interior layout, now situated at Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park.

The house served briefly as a medical station for British soldiers in 1781 following the Battle of Groton Heights during the American Revolutionary War. This wartime role connected the structure to a major local military event of that era.

The house displays the typical features of New England Colonial design through its balanced proportions, steep roofline, and central chimney arrangement. The period furnishings inside reveal how the household functioned in daily life.

The house is open to visitors during the warmer months with guided interior tours available to see the period furnishings. Visitors should plan ahead, as access is limited to specific seasons and the site is located within a state park.

The house faced demolition in 1970 before being rescued by R. Stanton Avery and relocated to its current location at Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park. This rescue preserved a rare example of Colonial architecture from being lost.

Location: Connecticut

GPS coordinates: 41.34953,-72.21550

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:02