Rep. Zawistowski Celebrates Reopening of Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine

EAST GRANBY – State Representative Tami Zawistowski (R-61) welcomed visitors to the official reopening of Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine on Saturday, July 14^th. The site was closed for renovations and repairs in 2009 and was opened on a limited basis in 2016 and 2017 for special events.

“I can’t possibly overstate how happy I am that this incredible landmark is back open. One of the main reasons that we were able to do this was because of strong community support and volunteers,” said Rep. Zawistowski. “I have long viewed reopening Old New Gate as a key to increased tourism in North Central Connecticut, capitalizing on this site and the other wonderful museums and attractions we have in our area.”

Old New Gate Prison and Copper Mine is the oldest surviving state prison structure in the country and has been designated a National Historic Landmark and a State Archaeological Preserve.  The site was first opened as a copper mine in 1705 and converted into a prison in 1773. After the state closed the prison in 1827, it became a local tourist attraction.

For the 2018 season the museum will be open on Friday 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Monday 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. There are several special events scheduled, including Old New Gate Halloween. For more information about Old New Gate and other Connecticut Museums visit www.cultureandtourism.org or find the museum on Facebook.