History

The Art League of New Britain, a non-profit organization, is the second oldest art league in the United States. It was founded in 1928 and its original mission was as an art school holding both day and evening sessions. In 1934 it transitioned into art club where artists could work and gather for social affairs.

For over 75 years, course offerings have included day and evening painting classes, pottery, poetry readings, furniture refinishing and drawing classes for adults and children. Among the events the Art League has hosted are: The Haunted Barn, Christmas Magic, Trunk shows, many art exhibitions and our annual Spring Shad Bake.

Mr. Sanford Low, the first president of the Art League of New Britain was the driving force behind the original success of the league. He gave of his considerable talent, energy and enthusiasm to keep the arts alive during the depression, a difficult time for any art organization. Mr. Low's fine reputation ultimately led him from his position at the Art League to become the Director of The New Britain Museum of American Art. We honor him by keeping alive the tradition of The Annual Shad Bake which Mr. Low began.

In additional to its long history, the Art League has always been unique in that it has always had its own home: a quaint 19th century red barn tucked behind Cedar Street in New Britain. The barn was built before the American Civil War by local industrialist George Post to serve as a stable for his carriages and carriage horses. In fact, the names of the horses are still above each stall door and a horseshoe cutout remains at the peak of the main gable. Subsequently George Post's daughter sold the barn to A.]. Sloper who in turn sold it to William C. Hungerford. The late Judge Hungerford had granted the use of his stable to the League for some time before his passing, and afterward his widow deeded the property to the League along with the surrounding land.

Along the way, the Art League has had the responsibility of caring for and preserving our precious landmark. We have been careful stewards. In the words of Meta Lacy: "Let no man presume to modernize our old barn by stripping it of its architectural personality, which properly dates it as a fine example of its period." The building has been home to many events.

Over the years, the Art League of New Britain has worked tirelessly to preserve not only a valuable landmark as a significant part of New Britain's history, but also to keep the doors open.