Our Mission

The mission of the Ashbel Woodward Museum is to preserve, protect, and share the rich historical heritage of the Town of Franklin, Connecticut. By anchoring our efforts in the historic 19th-century homestead and multi-faceted legacy of Dr. Ashbel Woodward, the museum serves as a bridge connecting our community’s past to its present and future.

Our Core Pillars

 Preserve Local History

We are dedicated to serving as a vital repository for Franklin and its surrounding communities. Through careful curation and archive management, we protect the artifacts, stories, and historic structures—including our local one-room schoolhouses—that define our regional identity.

 Educate and Inspire

We bring history to life for visitors of all ages. Through immersive exhibits, educational programs, and historical research, we provide insight into early New England life, 19th-century medicine, and local Civil War history.

 Foster Community Engagement

The museum is more than a collection of the past—it is an active community gathering place. Through signature events like Franklin Fest, specialized workshops, and regional speaker series, we foster civic pride and bring neighbors together to celebrate our shared heritage.