Tapping Reeve House and Law School - Litchfield, Connecticut

Tapping Reeve House and Law School

Address: 82 South St, Litchfield, CT 06759, United States.

Phone: 8605674501.

Website: litchfieldhistoricalsociety.org.

Specialties: History museum, Non-profit organization, Tourist attraction.

Other points of interest: Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Restaurant, Good for kids.

This historic building is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and law. As the first law school in the United States, it offers a unique glimpse into the country's legal past. The museum features a self-guided tour or a 15-minute guided tour, allowing visitors to explore the building's rich history.

Characteristics:

The Tapping Reeve House and Law School is a historic building that dates back to the 18th century. It was the first law school in the United States and was established in 1784. The building features a unique blend of Georgian and Federal styles, with a striking clock tower that dominates the landscape.

The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of law and justice in the United States. Visitors can explore the building's many rooms, including the courtroom, the library, and the museum gallery.

Location:

The Tapping Reeve House and Law School is located in Litchfield, Connecticut, a charming town in the heart of the state. Litchfield is known for its rich history and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists and history buffs alike.

Information:

Visitors can plan their visit by contacting the museum directly or by checking the website. The museum is open year-round, except for major holidays.

Admission is free, although donations are appreciated. Guided tours are available for a fee, and visitors can also explore the building on their own.

Opinions:

This company has 38 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.8/5. Visitors have praised the museum for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and friendly staff.

Many visitors have also noted the museum's accessibility features, including wheelchair ramps and elevators.

Some visitors have mentioned that the museum can be quite crowded, especially during peak season. However, the staff is generally friendly and helpful, and the museum offers a range of exhibits and activities to keep visitors engaged.

👍 Reviews of Tapping Reeve House and Law School

Batman T. D. K.

5/5

Cool building with lots of history. Was the 1st ever law school in the United States. We went here to check out the scarecrow competition happening around the backside, and found out the museum was free that day. Lots to see and read from the buildings history. There's a self guided tour, or a 15 minute guided tour. The little school House building was my favorite part. Great piece of history.

Beth M.

5/5

A delight to visit!..The grounds were beautifully maintained!..a brief video introduction and a self- guided tour through the House and Law school.
Thoroughly enjoyed the displays, photos and text which were so interesting and informative.
This is a must-see historical landmark!!
Learned so much..Tappring Reeve and his partner, James Gould were ahead of their time in teaching!

Kelly H.

5/5

Went to the Scarecrow exhibit. IT was great fun

Mike Z.

5/5

Went for the Halloween Scarecrow show this year. Great weather and a beautiful show.

Brian C.

5/5

Outstanding place of local and legal history. This residence and one room law school have been turned into a museum of high quality. Go there to learn about the personalities involved, the students educated there (including 2 future vice presidents of the USA), and the political parties of the Era. The young staff is both friendly and helpful.

Missy L.

5/5

One of the best, most detailed and hands-on small museums I’ve been to. Lots of first-hand accounts from journals of the period, great historical context, and interactive exhibits that engage children. Great content for every age, and beautiful grounds that are open to all.

Virginia S.

4/5

I purchased an evening historical tour for "scary stories about Litchfield of old" last week. I knew it was designed around Halloween but didnt take the PR too seriously. I was actually really shocked that the tour guide spoke exclusively about death & execution over 100 years ago. It was way too gory for me. I thought we would be educated about lots of people, homes, & local history with a few details of horror. The walk was nice,the lanterns great, the cocktails beforehand fabulous, the chatting with others on our tour was pleasant also. Some were cold, but I was dressed appropriately and happy with the cold & dark hour walk. I guess I would like more Historical Tours with informative (friendly)life history!

Tim M.

5/5

Great little museum. It is a law school founded by Aaron Burr's brother in law. Burr was also the first student. They have really nice exhibits that have very high production values considering how small the museum is. They even have old time toys for the kids to play with.