Paul Doyle

Doyle Welcomes State Grant for Historic Preservation in Rocky Hill

State Senator Paul Doyle (D-Wethersfield) today announced an imminent state grant to underwrite a ‘conditions assessment’ for Academy Hall Museum in Rocky Hill. The grant was awarded by the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation through its Historic Preservation Technical Assistance Grants program.

Senator Doyle said the successful grant application was prepared and submitted by the Town of Rocky Hill; the town will receive $6,000 as a result of that effort. The grant program itself is funded by the General Assembly through the Connecticut Humanities Council and the Commission on Culture and Tourism.

“The Academy Hall in Rocky Hill is now more than 200 years old, yet it continues to provide a window through which Rocky Hill’s history and once robust maritime tradition can still be seen,” Senator Doyle said. “The building itself is now on the National Register of Historic Places; this state grant will help preservationists determine how well the structure is holding up and then prioritize any repairs and restoration it may require.”

Senator Doyle complimented the volunteers of the Rocky Hill Historical Society who maintain and operate the Academy Hall Museum, and who set up and change all its exhibits. Artifacts from the time Rocky Hill was a bustling Connecticut River port are shown along with farm implements, military treasures, and clothing from different periods.

“One of Connecticut’s greatest assets is its place in American history and the respect its residents have traditionally shown for the rich heritage and legacy we share,” Senator Doyle said. “It’s important to maintain the few remaining touchstones to that history so future generations will learn to appreciate the achievement, accomplishment, and excellence that have characterized our part of the state throughout Connecticut history.”

Senator Doyle is serving his second term in the state Senate. He previously served six terms in the House of Representatives. He is the Senate Chair of the legislature’s Human Services Committee, vice-chair of its Select Committee on Housing, and serves on the judiciary and Regulations Review Committees as well.