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The flavor of Taylor's Corner begins with our locale. We're in the valley. In fact, one part of our town is even called "Woodstock Valley." There is something about life here which can engender a special friendship. Actually, we are deep in a much larger area known as "the last green valley" due to our location between Boston and New York. More properly, it is known as the Quinebaug and Shetucket Rivers Valley National Heritage Corridor. The corridor covers approximately 1,086 square miles in northeastern Connecticut and southeastern Massachusetts. Scoured by glaciers, we have many rolling (and often rugged) hills, with streams and ponds. In fact, there are seven state forests, over 80 clean ponds and lakes, 16 wildlife management areas, more than 130 miles of trails and, of course, the two river systems, providing the largest aquifer in Connecticut. The Quinebaug and Shetucket Rivers Valley is known for its traditional, New England stone walls; myriad pastures; historic old mill sites; National Historic Landmarks; local museums; agricultural fairs; antique shows; and engaging people. Ours is a largely rural area with small towns, their farms, woodlands and mills. While the National Heritage Corridor includes over 35 towns and villages, over 70% of the land remains forested. Yet, it lies within just an hour's drive of three large New England urban areas.
Learn about the butterflies of Windham County at the USGS. |
With all that as a backdrop, the B&B at Taylor's Corner offers traditional lodging in the romance of a completely restored 18th Century center chimney farmhouse (then referred to as the "mansion") featuring nine fireplaces, two beehive ovens, a summer kitchen, wide-board floors and other architectural features common to the 1700s. At some time during the early 1800s, the "Connecticut Cottage" (now Brenda's kitchen and laundry room) was moved and attached to the east side of the original structure. During the 1700s the current five acres, presently known as Taylor's Corner, were part of an 80 acre farm owned by William Martin. Later in the 1800's it was known as the Allen Farm and expanded to 500 acres during this century. It is believed that the road passed to the south of the house in that era, but it has since been relocated, leaving the house situated on a sharp bend in the road. Nell Taylor operated a private boarding school from 1931-1969, thus establishing the property's present name. It has also served as a popular biker's hostel and an herbary. B&B at Taylor's Corner is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. |
