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Defending the Harbor – 1776

Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Departure: 11:45am, Thames River Landing, Groton, CT

In 1776, sensing the importance of New London, the Connecticut General Assembly sent a committee to New London to determine how to protect this vital port. Come see the harbor as they did and learn about the forts of the harbor and the parts they played in the 1781 Raid on New London. Local historian, Matthew Reardon, will lead this tour!

 

Discover Connecticut’s Hidden Underwater Meadows

Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 1:15PM
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

Join us for a guided boat tour out of the Thames River as we cruise east along Connecticut’s coastline to explore one of Long Island Sound’s most important—and overlooked—ecosystems: eelgrass. Learn how these underwater meadows support fisheries, protect shorelines, improve water quality, and store carbon, all while we visit beautiful coastal coves and boating hotspots. From the rise and fall of eelgrass to the real-world choices that threaten or protect it, this engaging on-the-water experience brings science, history, and stewardship together. Perfect for curious adults who love the coast and want to help keep it healthy—above and below the surface.
Guest Guide: Jamie Vaudrey, Ph.D. is a coastal scientist and science communicator who serves as the Research Coordinator for the Connecticut National Estuarine Research Reserve and an Associate Research Professor at the University of Connecticut.

Black Heritage Along the Thames: The Half That’s Never Been Told

Date: June-September
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

New London’s 400-year history reflects the broader American story, yet many contributions of its Black community have long been overlooked. This tour highlights those stories of struggle, resilience, abolition, education, and community, honoring and learning about those who fought for equality and inspiring us to continue their work to deliver the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. Led by local historians Nicole Thomas and Tom Schuch.

The Gilded Age on the Thames

Date: June-September
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

View the summer cottages, elegant homes and estates of the well-to-do while you hear stories of the wealthy vacationers who enjoyed the Thames River during the Gilded Age. Like famed artist and glassmaker Louis Comfort Tiffany and Fredrick Law Olmsted, designer of New York City’s Central Park.

Discover the Thames

Date: June-September
Departure: Fort Trumbull State Park, New London, CT

Travel along both sides of the Thames to its mouth on Long Island Sound and to the Coast Guard Academy. Along the way, you’ll get an introduction to the people, places, and events which have shaped the region. Learn about other heritage sites you can visit in Groton and New London and hear fascinating stories about the communities of Thames River Heritage Park.

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