The Spirit of 76 House 

  Lodging in the Connecticut River Valley

Welcome to the Spirit of 76 House

The House - a rare stucco Italianite style villa - was built in 1841

The Spirit of 76 House Bed & Breakfast was named after a painting on the west side facade. The House has been in our family since 1908 and 

is now a registered historical site with the State of Connecticut. 









The mansion was a Bed and Breakfast Establishment in the early 1900's when it was known as The Dooley House. 

We now continue the tradition combining great hospitality with 21'st century amenities. 



Experience the relaxed New England countryside

in this charming estate situated on 4 acres of lawns, 

gardens and open fields.


We are located in the Connecticut River Valley in the village of Higganum. 
Early English settlements in the Higganum area are documented since 1660. At that time the sachem or sovereign of the territory around Higganum was Towwehashque of the Wongunk tribe. In 1697 she was succeeded by her daughter Pampenum. 

The surrounding areas are used for many recreational activities like biking, boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking.

Enjoy a stay on your way along the New England Coastline; we are only a 20 minute drive away from the shoreline on route 9, exit 9. We are about 100 miles northeast from Midtown Manhattan. 


Commuter trains travel from Grand Central Terminal to New Haven and Shoreline East trains connect to Old Saybrook.

Explore this eccentric old mansion and the many hidden treasures along the Connecticut river.