Owned and operated by the State of Connecticut, the Sloane Stanley Museum is a monument to one of the more avid 20th century collectors of Americana. Eric Sloane (1905-1985) was a painter, writer, and collector. He was fascinated with America of days long gone and he painted barns, landscapes, and structures reminiscent of our nostalgic past. He also painted clouds and is well known for the cloud background for the planes at the Smithsonian's Air and Space Museum.

In the museum, you can see his collection of hand tools, woodworking items, and farm impliments. The collection is extensive and exciting even though it's due to be remounted. You can also see a complete recreation of Sloane's studio complete with brushes, easel, paintings, folk art, and all his books. It's pretty exciting to step into this artist's day to day experience.

On the grounds is also a pioneer cabin built by Sloane to commemorate the 1805 Diary of an Early American Boy (Noah Blake) which he published. You can also visit the granite remains of the furnace from the Kent Iron Furnace. Built in 1826, the furnace operated for 70 years and the Gothic Arches of the structure are within easy walking distance of the museum. There is lots to interest the whole family here. Admission is $4 adult and $2.50 (6-17).