What We Do
Since 2003, after the State of Connecticut invested $25 million to create this jewel inthe chain of Connecticut state parks, the Friends have assisted in the preservation, protection, and interpretation of this historically important site.
Our Mission
The Friends of Fort Trumbull State Park facilitate access to Fort Trumbull State Park in New London, Connecticut. We have a stated mission to “bring to the visiting public the history of Fort Trumbull” and the surrounding area. On the banks of Connecticut’s Thames River and opposite Fort Griswold, Fort Trumbull’s history begins with the Revolutionary War. The current fortification dates back to the Antebellum Period, and it has housed both the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Officer Training School. The Friends of Fort Trumbull State Park host a speakers’ series with talks emphasizing the site’s historic and cultural value. These events are free and open to the public. Fort Trumbull also hosts other Special Events throughout the year.
“Suffer me to join in Congratulating you, on your appointment to be General and Commander in Chief of the Troops raised or to be raised for the Defence of American Liberty.”
— Jonathan Trumbull, Sr., Lebanon [Conn.] 13th July 1775. To George Washington from Jonathan Trumbull. Source.
What We’ve Achieved
Among the new exhibits and those planned for 2024, they feature Fort Trumbull’s role in the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, WW I, WW II and the Cold War.
Donations secured by the Friends of Fort Trumbull for display at the museum.
Participation in the state's Saltwater Fishing Day.
Connection to the water taxi to Fort Trumbull and Fort Griswold State Parks.
Brought to the visiting public the history of Fort Trumbull.
Monthly Program Series includes Museums, the Arts, and Governmental organizations.
Volunteer Clean-up Day at the Fort.
Historic preservation of Cold War relics on display in the museum.
Fort Trumbull Civil War Trust event.
Friends of Fort Trumbull State Park (FoFTSP) and Coast Guard Academy special relationship since it’s the USCGA birthplace.
Stocked the store with Friends of Fort Trumbull logo items such as hats, shirts, and sweatshirts, including American historical toys made in Connecticut and other historical items. Books on State and local history added to the mission of the store.