Nelson Augustus Moore Homestead

For generations, the town of Berlin, Connecticut has quietly held a national treasure: the historic home and farm of celebrated Hudson River School painter Nelson Augustus Moore. Tucked along the scenic High Road, this 27-acre property tells the story of a family that helped shape American art and preserve the beauty of the Connecticut countryside through brushstroke and canvas.

Moore’s paintings reflect the deep inspiration he found in these very fields, cliffs, wetlands, and woodlands. From the rolling meadows of his family farm to the tranquil waters of Lake George, his work celebrates the quiet grace of the natural world. Moore’s artistic legacy extends beyond painting; he was also one of Connecticut’s earliest photographers and the designer of the nation’s oldest permanent Civil War monument, honoring the fallen soldiers of the Union.

At the heart of the property stands the Moore family farmhouse, a striking structure built in 1860 from stone and concrete made at the family’s mill across the Mattabesset River. Still a cherished landmark today, the house will be protected through a conservation easement. But the remainder of the land, its sweeping views and rich habitats, faces the very real threat of residential development.

Already, new construction is nearing completion on the southern half of what was once the Moore farm, fragmenting vital wildlife corridors and cutting off opportunities for public access. As Connecticut continues to lose farmland each year, landscapes like this are becoming harder to find, and more important than ever to protect.

With the support of the community and local partners, Trust for Public Land is working to protect the remainder of the Moore property. Once conserved, this special place could provide new opportunities for recreation, education, and connection. Picture a future nature trail winding through Moore’s landscapes, opening the door to birdwatching, hiking, and learning about the region’s history; right where it happened. And just like Moore’s paintings, this land can continue to inspire for generations to come.