Harkness Memorial State Park

Enjoy the panoramic views of Long Island Sound from Eolia, the elegant summer mansion of the Harkness family set on over 230 seaside acres of sweeping lawns, with stately trees and spectacular gardens.

Originally from Ohio, Edward S. Harkness was to become heir to a fortune initiated by his father's substantial investments in John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil. Instilled at an early age with an ardent love for his fellow man and a feeling of responsibility for the wise and just use of the wealth at his command, Mr. Harkness was to bestow over two hundred million dollars upon wide-ranging...

On the Water!

Harkness Memorial State Park is a Connecticut state park and botanical garden located in Waterford, Connecticut, on the Long Island Sound. The park comprises a 42-room mansion, designed by the New York architectural firm of Lord & Hewlett, with a surrounding area containing Italian, Oriental, and Cutting gardens and greenhouses.HistoryThe park was formerly Eolia, the estate of Edward Harkness,...

This former summer estate on Long Island Sound includes a 42-room Italian mansion, formal gardens and picnic areas. Fishing is allowed on the beach, but swimming is not permitted. The park's services include mansion tours.

The mansion is available for rental for weddings and othe private functions from March 1-December 23.