Visitor Center — 1767

History

Built in 1767 for James Pierpont, grandson of one of Yale’s founders, this Federal-style house is the oldest surviving private residence in the city and a prime example of an 18th century New Haven home.  The building remained in the Pierpont family until 1900 when Reverend Anson Stokes, then secretary of Yale, purchased the home. In 1921, the University acquired the property for use as a faculty club. Over the years, the home has undergone several renovations and additions. Stokes built a rear addition during his residency and the University conducted its own renovation and restoration in 1929 and expansion in 1950. After the faculty club dissolved, the Pierpont house served briefly as the University Admission Office before taking on the role it has today of Visitor Center in 1995. An extensive renovation in 2002 restored and refurnished the building, which is now also home to the Henry Koerner Center for Emeritus Faculty. 

Did You Know?

During their brief occupation of New Haven during the Revolutionary War, the British used the Pierpont home as a headquarters and hospital.