Historical Place Museum
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby, Connecticut, is a historic site originally established as the first chartered copper mine in America in 1707.
The mine, located on the western slope of the Metacomet Ridge, was worked by skilled German miners but ultimately failed due to unprofitable ore extraction methods and British restrictions on local smelting. In 1773, the Connecticut legislature repurposed the abandoned mine into the state's first official prison, intended to isolate and reform criminals by housing them underground in its labyrinth of tunnels and shafts.
It was used primarily during the American Revolutionary War to confine prisoners of war. The prison was notorious for its harsh conditions and repeated escapes despite security efforts. After closing as a prison in 1827, the site became a private tourist attraction and was acquired by the state in 1968.
Today, it serves as a museum offering guided tours of the old mine tunnels and prison facilities, telling the story of its unique multi-century role in early American mining, penal history, and industrial heritage.
| Address | 115 Newgate Rd, East Granby, CT 06026, United States |
| Opened | 1775 |
| Area | 2 ha |
| Phone | +1 860-653-3563 |
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal is located in Connecticut, United States.
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal is situated in the state of Connecticut.
The main phone number for the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal is +1 860-653-3563.
The address of Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal is 115 Newgate Rd, East Granby, CT 06026, United States.
Yes, Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal is family-friendly and attracts visitors of all age groups.
Visitors usually spend a few hours to a full day exploring Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal.
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodations near Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine - Seasonal in Connecticut.
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