Several members of Connecticut’s congressional delegation say they have revived legislation on Capitol Hill to designate Hartford’s historic Coltsville neighborhood a National Historical Park.
Congressman John B. Larson and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy announced Tuesday they are sponsors of the measure to enshrine Coltsville, anchored by the iconic blue dome of the East Armory.
That’s where legendary gunmaker Samuel Colt produced his iconic pistols, cementing Hartford and Connecticut as the hub for America’s manufacturing prowess in the mid- to late 19th century.
“Coltsville has deep roots in our nation’s industrial revolution, along with a history of innovation and manufacturing,” Larson said in a statement Tuesday.
The National Park designation will promote economic development and tourism in Hartford while preserving the legacy of Colt and his wife, Elizabeth, authorities said.
Larson and retired Connecticut U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman introduced similar legislation in the previous session but the measure stalled.
