When Samuel Colt started his Hartford factory on the banks of the Connecticut River in 1847, it followed years of mismanagement and failure. Soon, demand for Colt's revolver would change his fortunes and the Colt empire was born. Following Colt's untimely death in 1862, his wife, Elizabeth Colt, would lead the company to its legendary status, and influence Hartford for over 40 years.

The Colt Armory Complex next to the CT River with its signature Blue Onion Dome

Colt Armory Complex

The Caldwell Memorial Parish House was built in memory of Caldwell Colt, Elizabeth and Samuel's son. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicated in 1896.

The Caldwell Memorial Parish House

The Blue Onion Dome was rebuilt after the fire in February of 1864. Today it graces the skyline of Hartford, just as the the Church of the Good Shepherd does, reminding those who see if of the Colts and their legacy.

Coltsville Dome and the Church of the Good Shepherd

Armsmear was the family home of Samuel and Elizabeth Colt built between 1856 and 1857. It would remain the family home, until the death of Elizabeth in 1905. Today it is a non-profit organization that provides housing for senior women of limited means.

Armsmear

The Carriage House is located in Colt Park next to the Gardner House.

The Colt Carriage House

Twenty worker houses were built behind the Colt Firearm Armory in 1856. These houses provided a living space for the workers of the Colt Factory.

Coltsville Worker Housing

The Church of the Good Shepherd was built by Elizabeth Colt as memorial to her husband, Samuel Colt, and their three children who passed in infancy. It was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and dedicate in 1869.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

The statue was built as a memorial to Samuel Colt by his wife, Elizabeth Colt. It was dedicated in 1906 after her passing in 1905. The statue serves as a reminder the role the Colts had in the development of the City of Hartford.

Coltsville National Historical Park

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