Today is Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Hop-on Hop-off Harbor Cruises are not running today.

Casey Brigham

Next in the Park…May Events & Programs!

Newsletter: May 15-31, 2026

E-newsletters will now be shared on a bi-monthly basis throughout the spring and summer months. There are so many amazing opportunities for exploration at all heritage sites for all to enjoy!

Thames River Heritage Park is comprised of 25 heritage sites throughout New London Groton and Waterford, Connecticut. Check out the latest newsletter and find the perfect event, program or activity for yourself, friends and family!

#DiscovertheThames #VisitCT #ExploreNewLondon

2026 Docent Academy Members Graduate!

Please help us congratulate the 2026 Docent Academy graduates! 
 
After an exceptional 10 weeks, these committed cohort members are now an integral asset to the Park. Prior to the graduation ceremony at Fort Trumbull State Park, the new docents got to meet representatives from over 20 heritage sites to volunteer with in the future.
 
Thank you to partner sites that hosted sessions, weekly presenters, Muddy Waters for the treats/refreshments and other volunteers who make this yearly program possible. 

TRHPF: Discover the Park!

Where: Fort Trumbull State Park
When: 10AM – 2PM  | Saturday, May 9

Thames River Heritage Park will be hosting its first annual Partner Open House Fair that will bring together Park Heritage Sites, Institutional Partners and other local organizations to share what they do, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the many stories and resources along the Thames River. 

This family-friendly event will be free, open to the public and hosted at Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, CT. Each tabling vendor will offer an activity for youth and include educators, nonprofit organizations and community entities.

Live Music Performances
Local Organizations & Activities
Family-Friendly, Interactive Fun
Face Painting, Caricatures & Games
Food Trucks with Bites for Purchase

Join the Park for a festive time to celebrate the incredible organizations that help bring TRHP to life, while also welcoming the broader community to learn more about the programs, services, and experiences available throughout the region.

National Volunteer Month!

April is National Volunteer Month! The Park has a large crew of folks who dedicate their time to local heritage sites, Park events, historic boat tours and other excursions on the Thames River. 

Enjoy these updates as we highlight a new volunteer each week. We are so grateful for the time and energy they contribute to our mission!

Meet Dr. Roger Richards!
 

Roger brings a diverse skillset to his volunteerism with the Park!  As a second-year graduate of the Docent Academy, you can frequently spot him at the Lecture Series or delivering local presentations on the Revolutionary War. 

He also lends his knowledge and experiences as an employee with the U.S. Navy to Fort Trumbull State Park! Roger aids in historical research for museum displays and is a lead docent at the fort. 

Meet Carol Strafaci!
 
Carol is a familiar face around town and is a recent Docent Academy graduate. She donates her time and expertise to two heritage sites, the annual lecture series and Hop On, Hop Off Harbor Cruises in the summer.
 
Over time, Carol has developed an interest in the Gilded Age, and she has explored this era through many of our sites, most recently at Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park, as well as through her own research. 

Meet Jim Flood!

Jim was a member of the second Docent Academy cohort and began volunteering at the Custom House Maritime Museum after graduation. He has since done his own research to become well-versed in Whaling and Maritime History in Groton and New London. 

Jim also currently supports yearly Park events including the annual Lecture Series and Docent Academy!

Next in the Park…April Events & Programs!

Newsletter: April 15-30, 2026

E-newsletters will now be shared on a monthly basis throughout the fall and winter months. There are so many amazing opportunities for exploration at all heritage sites for all to enjoy!

Thames River Heritage Park is comprised of 25 heritage sites throughout New London Groton and Waterford, Connecticut. Check out the latest newsletter and find the perfect event, program or activity for yourself, friends and family!

#DiscovertheThames #VisitCT #ExploreNewLondon

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