Putnam Cottage (Knapp Tavern) | Greenwich

Putnam Cottage, also known as Knapp Tavern, is a historic structure located in Greenwich, Connecticut.

This colonial-era building served as a significant site during the American Revolutionary War.

Visual Characteristics

The cottage is a two-and-a-half-story, wood-frame structure with clapboard siding. Its exterior is painted a light color, contrasting with dark shutters. The roof is gabled, and a prominent chimney rises from one side. Architectural elements suggest a late 18th-century colonial style.

Location & Access Logistics

Putnam Cottage is situated at 243 East Putnam Avenue (US Route 1) in Greenwich, CT. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers east of the central Greenwich business district. Limited on-street parking is available directly in front of the cottage. Public transport options include the Metro-North Railroad to Greenwich Station, followed by a local bus (e.g., CT Transit Bus Route 11) or a short taxi ride.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The structure was originally built around 1730 by Jedediah Knapp as a tavern. It gained historical prominence on February 26, 1779, when General Israel Putnam and his troops used it as a temporary headquarters during a British raid. The building has been preserved as a museum dedicated to local history.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved interior rooms, which are furnished with period artifacts. Interpretive displays detail the cottage's role during the Revolutionary War. Educational programs and special events are sometimes held on-site.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the museum building. Limited shade is provided by the building itself and surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in this area. No on-site food vendors are present, but numerous dining establishments are located along East Putnam Avenue.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during daylight hours when the exterior is well-lit. The museum operates on specific hours, typically Tuesday through Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays. It is advisable to check the official website for current operating schedules. Weather is generally most favorable for visiting between April and October.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical account states that General Putnam, upon learning of the approaching British forces, rode his horse up the front steps of the tavern and out a rear window to escape capture. While the exact details of this feat are debated, it is a widely recounted anecdote associated with the site.

Nearby Landmarks

• Bruce Museum (0.8km West)
• Greenwich Historical Society (1.2km West)
• Audubon Center Greenwich (3.5km Northwest)
• Bush-Holley House (1.5km West)