Open house glimpses of Colonial Connecticut in Litchfield

LITCHFIELD, Conn. - For 364 days a year the stately Revolutionary War-era homes surrounding picturesque Litchfield Green are inaccessible to the public. The annual exception occurs Saturday, when several of these residences, along with other architecturally significant homes, will be included in the 61st annual Open House Day Tour of Litchfield to benefit nonprofit Connecticut Junior Republic and its programs for troubled youth.

The self-guided tour will feature six properties and additional historical points of interest. Highlights include the John Collins House, dating from 1765, with six fireplaces and two beehive ovens; the Skinner House Parsonage, a 1787 center hall Colonial with 12-over-12 windows and black wrought iron strap hinges on the doors; and the 1770 Thomas Catlin House, with a painting over the mantel that family history attributes to a Hessian soldier befriended by the original owner.

Newer homes include Shanti Bhavan (Peaceful Palace), reminiscent of an Indian British Colonial. Tour tickets also include admission to the Litchfield History Museum and the Tapping Reeve House and Law School, recognized as the first law school in America.

Open House Day Tour, Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., rain or shine. Begins at information booth on Litchfield Green, intersection of Routes 63, 202, and 118. Tickets $30. 860-567-9423. litchfieldct.com/cjr/tour .html.

ELLEN ALBANESE