About Us
The Mystic River Historical Society was established in 1973 as a non-profit, all volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Mystic's history. We maintain an extensive collection of historic photographs and documents that are open to the public year round at the Downes Archive Building. We are also the caretakers of Mystic's first schoolhouse, the historic Portersville Academy.
Visit us at 74 High Street, Mystic, CT
Tuesday, 9am-Noon
Wednesday, 1-4pm
Thursday, 1-4pm
What We Do
Historic Collections
We actively collect, preserve, catalog, and digitize materials relating to the history of Mystic, CT. We also do our best to make these records widely available to support research and scholarship.
Public Outreach
We present regular public programs, offer cemetery and walking tours, publish a bi-monthly newsletter and host special exhibits throughout the year to promote Mystic's history and cultural heritage.
Research & Publications
We provide research assistance to visitors and conduct our own research projects. Our work includes the books "Walk Your Horses" & "The Childhood Diaries of Helen Clarke."
Board of Directors
Lynn Schroder - President
Stephen Menno - Treasurer
Carmine DeStefano - Recording Secretary
Robert Boris - Membership Secretary
Brian McDermott - Corresponding Secretary
Nancy Potter - Newsletter
Gary Robbins
Ray Slattery