Riverton Historic District (Barkhamsted, Connecticut)

The Riverton Historic District encompasses the historic village center of Riverton in the town of Barkhamsted, Connecticut. Located at the confluence of the West Branch Farmington River and the Still River, the district is significant for its well-preserved 19th and early 20th-century architecture, reflecting the village's development as a center for manufacturing, particularly the Hitchcock Chair Company.

The district is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, most of which date from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. Architectural styles represented include Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne. Notable structures include the Hitchcock Chair Company factory and associated buildings, the Old Riverton Inn (formerly known as the Catlin Tavern), the Riverton General Store, and the Congregational Church.

Riverton's history is closely tied to Lambert Hitchcock, who established his chair manufacturing business in the village in 1826. The Hitchcock Chair Company played a pivotal role in the development of Riverton, attracting workers and spurring the growth of related businesses and services. The village's architecture and layout reflect its industrial past and its evolution as a thriving commercial and residential center.

The Riverton Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. Its boundaries encompass a defined area along both sides of the Farmington River and Still River, including Main Street (Route 20) and several adjacent streets. The district serves as a valuable reminder of Connecticut's industrial heritage and the architectural legacy of a once-thriving manufacturing village.