A Historical Vacation in Collinsville, CT

Tucked in a wide bend of the Farmington River, Collinsville, CT, offers visitors endless activities, events and sights in a historically preserved mill town atmosphere.

The town was home to the Collins Company axe factory, a world renowned manufacturer of steel instruments like machetes which were used to clear the Panama Canal. The ambiance of Main Street reflects period architecture with ornate details from the turn of the century.

Typical of New England mills, the Collins Company axe factory was sited on the river and utilized the water's strength to turn turbines and power machines. The numerous old buildings ramble along the riverbanks intertwined by an intricate maze of sluices that run throughout the site.

In the heart of town, store fronts adhere to the town's industrial past. Long glass front markets, like centrally located LaSalle Market, invite visitors with fresh brewed coffee, homemade baked sweets and the delicious house specialty ice creams.

Antiques are a large draw and the main building for the old axe factory today houses Collinsville Antiques Company. Sprawled in an enormous factory building over two levels, the company is known throughout the state for its expansive inventory of antiques and collectibles. Beautiful furniture, one-of-a-kind house wares, clothing, quilts and unique aged oddities fill the wood planked warehouse.

In the shadow of the Collinsville Antiques Company, an old train depot has been renovated into the Crown & Hammer Restaurant and Pub. Its name comes from the logo of the old Collins Company and everything about this eatery pays homage to the town's colorful history.

The menu is filled with regional treats like New England clam chowder, Maine Crab Cakes, Lobster Flauta and a train stop favorite, Fried Green Tomatoes. Appetizers, salads, sandwiches and entrees are all creative versions of pub favorites and complemented by the Crown & Hammer's plentiful microbrews and wines.