Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine, East Granby

Overview

Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine is nationally recognized as the first chartered copper mine (1707)and the first state prison (1773) in early America. After colonial mining ceased in the mid-1700s the site was purchased by the government of Connecticut and used to inhumanely imprison people in the abandoned copper mine.

Today, Old New-Gate operates as a history museum in East Granby, Connecticut. Comprised of a visitor center, outdoor prison yard, historic ruins/structures, and copper mine. Visitors are encouraged to self-guide through the grounds/exhibits and take a public tour of the abandoned mine. Additionally, the museum houses The Old New-Gate Museum of Art - a rotating exhibit of artwork from the Community Partners in Action's Prison Arts Program, as well as the first-ever Connecticut Hall of Change- honoring formerly incarcerated individuals for their contributions to their community.

Through a lens of multiple perspectives, visitors to Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine are encouraged to shine a light on issues of historic preservation, justice, and environmental conservation, promoting critical thought, civic engagement, and empathy for all people.

Announcements

Closed for the Season (Re-opening May 2027)

The visitor center, prison yard, and mine are closed from Nov - April. The exterior space and picnic area outside of the prison walls is always available for public use.

Join the Friends of New Gate

The Friends of New-Gate are accepting new members. For those interested in promoting our Mission to support this National Historic Landmark, reach out to us at friendsofnewgate@gmail.com.

Aerial view of Viets Tavern, a large white colonial building located across from Newgate Prison on the East side of the street.

Old New-Gate Receives Federal Grant Funding for Viets Tavern

We have received $750,000 from the National Park Service through the Semiquincentennial Grant funding to complete the first phase of rehabilitation for Viets Tavern. The Tavern was home to Capt. John Viets, New-Gate's first warden and is significant as a contributing structures to our Nation's first state prison. Stay tuned for updates. In the meantime, check out the virtual tour of the Tavern (external link).