The Hartford Connecticut Temple is the first temple built in Connecticut and the second temple in New England. Located in Farmington, just outside Hartford, the temple has served members throughout Connecticut, western Massachusetts, and parts of New York since its dedication in 2016. Its elegant New England-inspired architecture and connection to early Church history make it one of the most distinctive temples in the northeastern United States.
A Brief History
President Thomas S. Monson announced the Hartford Connecticut Temple during the October 2010 General Conference on October 2, 2010. Interestingly, this was not the first time a temple had been planned for the Hartford area. An earlier Hartford temple was announced in 1992, but after several years of searching for a suitable location, those plans were replaced with temples in Boston, Massachusetts, and Harrison, New York. Nearly two decades later, members in Connecticut finally received the long-awaited announcement of a temple in their own state.
Groundbreaking services were held on August 17, 2013, with President Thomas S. Monson presiding. Following a 22-day public open house, President Henry B. Eyring dedicated the temple on November 20, 2016, making it the 155th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Hartford Connecticut Temple's most distinctive features is its classic New England architecture. The design was inspired by the historic First Church of Christ Congregational in nearby Farmington, which was completed in 1772. The temple features a beautiful white granite exterior, Ionic columns, and a graceful 117-foot spire, allowing it to blend naturally with the region's historic architecture.
Another unique aspect is its location in Farmington, the birthplace and childhood home of President Wilford Woodruff, the fourth President of the Church. This connection gives the temple special historical significance for Latter-day Saints visiting the area.
The temple grounds are also beautifully landscaped in a traditional New England style, with stone walls, colorful seasonal flowers, mature trees, and winding walkways that provide a peaceful setting throughout the year.
Visiting the Temple
The Hartford Connecticut Temple is located at 2 Central Way in Farmington, Connecticut. The temple has an on-site distribution center, but there is no visitors' center, arrival center, or patron housing. The beautifully landscaped grounds are open to the public and are a wonderful place to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and elegant New England architecture.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Connecticut.
- Second temple built in New England.
- 155th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on October 2, 2010.
- Groundbreaking held on August 17, 2013.
- Dedicated by President Henry B. Eyring on November 20, 2016.
- Public open house lasted 22 days.
- Built on an 11.3-acre property.
- Approximately 32,246 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Inspired by one of New England's historic colonial churches.
- Located in the hometown of President Wilford Woodruff.
Final Thoughts
The Hartford Connecticut Temple is a beautiful blend of New England history and modern temple worship. Its elegant colonial-inspired architecture, connection to President Wilford Woodruff, and long-awaited construction make it one of the most meaningful temples in the northeastern United States. Whether you're attending the temple or simply walking its peaceful grounds, the Hartford Connecticut Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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