Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
One of the places I was anxious to visit again was Gillette’s Castle. Alex had never been inside which made it even more fun; it’s the kind of thing that you can’t help but to be amazed at. We skipped the history exhibits and introductory film and headed right into castle when we got there so this post will be a little light on explanation but the basics are this: William Gillette, a famous turn-of-the-century actor, had this castle built in 1914 – 1919, according to his personal specifications. He also designed the interior including the all unique woodworking details, types of locks and latches on the thirty-seven (I think) different doors, sliding rail mechanisms for chairs, and theatrical components such as the trick locking mechanism on the bar and the placement of mirrors for surveillance of guests. It’s completely unique and if you’re ever visiting the area I highly recommend going.
It’s a very popular attraction, especially in summer, and there were many people wandering about which made my photos somewhat hurried and not taken from all the ideal angles, but I’m sure these will give you an idea. I find this place incredibly interesting and I really enjoy all the details of the stonework and especially the interior woodwork in addition to the light fixtures, woven grass wallpaper, and custom furnishings. It’s just cool. The grounds too are beautiful and reflect Gillette’s aesthetic concept from the few outbuildings to the layout of the walking paths and bridges. After we toured the castle we walked around, venturing down to the river bank and over to the goldfish pond but we didn’t hike any of the actual trails since it was very hot and humid that day and Alex isn’t a fan of hiking. But we both really enjoyed the visit and the day.
Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Inside front door of Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Looking down on living room, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
From the second floor, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Couch in living room, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Light switches, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Sun room, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Carved sideboard, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Carved door, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Study, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
View of the Connecticut River from the second floor, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Green Bedroom, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Stairs up to rooftop (that was sadly not accessible), Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Door on third floor, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Alex looking up at the exterior details, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Imposing profile, Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Gillette’s Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Alex and I with the Connecticut River in the background, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Down by the river, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
Footbridge over goldfish pond, Gillette Castle State Park, Connecticut
So it took 5 years to build. How long did Richard Gillette reside there? Did family live there after Richard? Was it sold to, or donated to, or confiscated by the State? (Or should I research the answers?)
Whew, you’re tough, Tom. Did you not catch the part where I said we skipped the exhibits and the film? Okay so I think he lived there maybe twenty years or so until his death in the late (mid?) 1930s. He didn’t have a wife or children so I believe he willed the property right to the state of Connecticut so it would be cared for. Any other questions?