Litchfield Historic District

Litchfield Historic District is a colonial-era neighborhood with approximately 475 structures built in the Georgian style, featuring clapboard siding and gabled roofs throughout. The heart of the area centers on a green space located where two main roads intersect.

The area was formally recognized in 1959 as Connecticut's first historic district, followed by National Historic Landmark status in 1968. These designations confirmed the national importance of this well-preserved early American settlement.

The district reflects the early days of American settlement through its street layout and building styles that remain visually intact from centuries past. Walking through, you notice how people have maintained these structures as a collective memory of colonial life.

The district is best explored on foot since it is compact and structures are visible from the streets. Any exterior work on buildings visible from public areas requires review to maintain consistency with the original architectural style.

The Tapping Reeve House once housed the first law school in the United States, where individuals including Aaron Burr and John C. Calhoun received instruction. This school played an important role in training early American leaders.