The Grounds
Fascinating background about the grounds and area
Learn about the historic Chester-Hadlyme ferry, and the home of William Gillette’s right-hand man Yukitaka Osaki.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle
Join us as we walk the Train Trail at Gillette Castle in it's entirety. Learn about William Gillette's love of trains and the railroad he built on his estate. Walk the bridges, hike through the tunnel and see all of the other features of the trail that remain from the railroad. Along the way, view archival photos and videos.
Originally these were published as a series of separate short videos, which are included below as well as available on the Friends of Gillette State Park YouTube channel. If you prefer to watch this as one 30-minute video, you can do that as well!
Enjoy the Fall at Connecticut State Parks!
As we head toward peak fall foliage, get out and enjoy the scenery at Connecticut's State Parks. Be sure to follow a few basic rules so that you can stay safe. For more information on foliage in Connecticut, visit https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Forestry/Foliage/Connecticuts-Fall-Foliage
The Aunt Polly: Shipwreck at Gillette Castle
Learn the story of William Gillette's houseboat, Aunt Polly. Who is it named for? How did it factor into the location of the Castle? Hear about whether or not Gillette set fire to it. Find out where you can find the shipwreck at the park!
Yukitaka Osaki: William Gillette's Right Hand Man
Find out who Yukitaka Osaki was? How did he meet William Gillette? Hear about his role in Gillette's life. Learn about Osaki's famous brother.
The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry
Learn the history behind the Chester - Hadlyme Ferry.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part I
In the first of 6 videos walking the train trail at Gillette Castle, we learn the particulars of the railroad and explore Grand Central Station, the archway and the cedar gate.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part II
In the second of video of this 6-part series, we walk the rail bed of William Gillette's Railroad, learning about the first couple of bridges.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part III
In our third of the 6-part video series, we solve the mystery of the stone tower on the trail and visit the second train station.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part IV
In the fourth of our 6-part series, we walk the area of the train trail around the ponds at Gillette Castle State Park.
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part V
In the 5th video of this 6-part series, we take you to the tunnel of William Gillette's railroad and walk through the turnaround. We also show you video footage of William Gillette driving the train around his property!!!
Walking the Train Trail at Gillette Castle: Part VI
In the final video of this series, we learn about who rode the train with William Gillette, what happened to the trains after his death and bring the trail walk to an interesting conclusion.
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