Gay City
The Mill in the Woods
State: Connecticut
County: Hartford County
Founded: 1796
Abandoned: 1879
Peak Population: 25 families
Gay City was founded by a religious sect led by Elijah Andrus and John Gay. The community built a woolen mill on the Blackledge River. The town declined after repeated mill fires and the founder's death. Today, cellar holes, a millpond, and legends of a murdered jeweler draw visitors.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Quick Facts
- Founded by religious sect
- Legend of murdered jeweler
- Cellar holes and mill remains
Location
Address: Gay City State Park, CT
Coordinates: 41.7167, -72.4833