Builder Focus
Simeon Jocelyn (1799–1879)
Simeon Jocelyn was an abolitionist and social reformer as well as the first pastor of a Black church, the United African Society (now the Dixwell Avenue Congregational United Church of Christ). Jocelyn was also one of the biggest real estate speculators in New Haven in the 19th century. He purchased land and laid out streets in the area now called Trowbridge Square, to create a model working-class community. Later he developed a community of modest houses for tradesmen and artisans, an area now known as Jocelyn Square.
Learn more about Joceyln and other historic buildings in The Builder Book: Carpenters, Masons and Contractors in Historic New Haven.
Engagement takes
many shapes and paths
Today, 60 years after the James Dwight Dana House was saved, the New Haven Preservation Trust has not run out of work. New Haven is a living, changing city, but its distinction lies in its wealth of history. As the Trust enters its next 60 years, its members will continue to be an active force, defending and promoting the valuable architectural heritage that defines our community.
Education Efforts
Supporting education and innovation in preservation
NHPT Office is Open by Appointment
Whether working from home or in the office, the Trust remains fully engaged — please contact us by email with your concerns and queries.
Self-Guided Tours
Take a walk — virtually or in person — and learn more about the streetscapes of New Haven’s communities.
Our Upcoming Events
New Haven Preservation Trust offers a range of tours and lectures throughout the year, which all are welcome to attend. Many of these events are held online.
View Our Video Archive
Visit our YouTube channel to watch past lecture and event videos, along with interviews with New Haven architects including Edward E. Cherry (shown above) who played a major role in the post-war architecture of the city.
Tax Credits for the Rehabilitation of Historic Homes
By assisting homeowners with property renovations and maintenance, the Connecticut Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program has helped stem the cycle of urban blight, abandonment, and disinvestment in the state’s urban residential neighborhoods.
Heritage Date Plaques
Celebrate the longevity of our community—over 350 years old—and build pride in New Haven’s architectural diversity. All buildings in New Haven are eligible to display a heritage date plaque. No particular historic significance is necessary, and no renovation or restoration is required.
New Haven Modern Architecture
Our website celebrating modern architecture in New Haven — the mid-century architects’ playground — features an inventory of over 250 structures built in New Haven between 1931 and 1980.
