Pitkin Glassworks Ruin

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Pitkin Glassworks Ruin
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Location: Manchester, Connecticut
Added to NRHP: May 9, 1979
Governing body: Pitkin Glassworks Incorporated

The Pitkin Glassworks Ruin is a historic site in Manchester, Connecticut.

[edit] History

The Pitkin Glass Factory was established in 1783, after the Pitkin family (Captain Richard Pitkin and his sons) worked from 1775-1781 supplying gun powder to the Contenental Army at a loss to them. [1] The factory produced items mostly made of green glass, including demijohns for trade with the West Indes.

[edit] Current use

The ruins of the structure of the factory are located on what was once the Pitkin Farm, and what is currently the corner of Putnam and Parker Streets. Between the two streets is a grassy plot of land with a sign that identifies it as the former site of the Pitkin Tavern.

In 1977, when the property was in danger of being sold for commercial use, a committee of citizens formed to save it. They include members of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Manchester historical society. [2]

Several archaeological digs have taken place on the site, including one done by students at Central Connecticut State University.