Welcome to the Parkside Historic District, a captivating enclave of Queen Anne Victorian architecture nestled in southern Hartford, Connecticut. This area offers a fascinating glimpse into the late 19th century, a time when Hartford was flourishing under the influence of the Colt family, known for their contributions to manufacturing and architecture.
In the 1880s and 1890s, Elizabeth Jarvis Colt, the widow of the notable arms manufacturer Samuel Colt, began developing this area. After Samuel Colt established his arms factory, the land surrounding the factory became part of an extensive estate. Elizabeth Colt, with her vision and commitment to Hartford’s development, transformed part of this estate into what we now know as the Parkside Historic District.
The district is renowned for its collection of nine stunning Queen Anne Victorian houses, which are some of the finest examples of this architectural style in Hartford. Each home shares a uniformity of placement and scale, with elegant brownstone foundations and distinctive asymmetrical designs, featuring projecting gables and bays. Among these architectural treasures is the home of builder William Scoville, located at 190 Wethersfield Avenue, notable for its octagonal tower—a hallmark of Queen Anne design.
As you explore this historic district, imagine the vibrant community life of the late 19th century, with these homes serving as residences for Hartford’s prominent citizens. The area reflects a period of prosperity and growth for the city, driven by industrial advancements and innovative urban planning.
The district’s significance is further enriched by its connection to renowned architects like Frederick Comstock and Brooks Lincoln, who contributed to the design of these grand residences. Although the west side of Wethersfield Avenue has transformed over time with modern developments, the east side maintains its historic charm, preserving the legacy of Hartford’s architectural heritage.
