Prudence Crandall Museum

Welcome to the Prudence Crandall Museum, a memorial center for the Nation's first Academy for African-American young women.

Sometimes called the Elisha Payne House, this historic house museum is the site of the first higher education academy for African Amerian young women and girls in New England, founded by Prudence Crandall in 1833. The school only lasted 17 months, unfortunately, as mob violence in late 1834 forced a closure. Today the museum stands to commemorate the teacher, students, particularly Sarah Harris, and supporters of the Canterbury Female Boarding School.

During a visit, your group will learn in-depth details about the above history, as well as the legacy of equal education in general through various exhibits presented. Explore Period Rooms, exhibit galleries, the onsite gift shop, the research library, and the garden-filled grounds.