Testimonials

★★★★★

- Chris

July 2025

We had a great stay at Clark’s place! The house was spacious and comfortable and we enjoyed learning about the history of how long Clark and his family had been there. Clark and Kamilah were friendly and responsive — they set us up with everything we needed, including breakfast supplies each morning, and they even baked fresh cookies for us the last day of our stay. The place is quiet with a large yard and gardens / paths in the back. It’s a short walk to Higganum and just a 10 minute drive to Middletown. We would happily stay again next time we’re in the area.

★★★★★

- Regina

June 2025

If you like history and spirits, this place is for you. Clark and Chammila were very friendly, accommodating and quick to respond with any request. Being a native of New England, the mansion had a great, old New England feel, like stepping back in time. The gardens and the surrounding property is beautiful and quiet if you're looking for a little immersion with nature. We will be back when in the area. Thanks, Clark and Chammila.

★★★★★

- Irene

June 2025

Clark was very helpful with checking in, calling to make sure that we received the right location. The house has a unique historic charm with a beautiful garden and a big swing. We were able to share the house with three artists who stayed to enjoy a guitar festival we were also attending. There are just a few things I would like to mention. If we were able to do laundry and cook during our stay it would’ve been great. Overall, it was a uniquely beautiful experience!

★★★★★

- Joshua

May 2025

Clark was a wonderful host. The location was perfect and we had a great time.

★★★★★

- Julia

April 2025

Lots of character and history in this charming and interesting home, in a peaceful setting just around the corner from a great-looking coffee place, several pizzerias, and a reservoir/dam. Beds were comfortable, linens were clean...it might be worth noting that on the first floor there's a wooden door between guest area/resident area of house and upstairs there's just a curtain (and piece of furniture) dividing the two areas.

★★★★★

- Tracy

October 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this beautifully historic mansion. The location was perfect for us: less than 30 min from either Hartford or Essex, but in a nicely quieter and more rural surrounding. The house had everything we needed. We all agreed that the beds were cozy, the bathroom super clean, and everything was as described. Clark was welcoming and responsive without being too present. The house itself is a gem. There were so many fun antique and interesting things to look at inside, and the gardens outside were peaceful and well cared for. My daughter loved having her own room and playing on the swings in the yard. She also really, really loved the warm chocolate chip cookies that Clark made each day! This is a great place for anyone open to experiencing Connecticut history and craving something different than the average hotel can provide. We are so grateful we made the choice to stay at this charming home.

★★★★★

- Maggie

October 2024

The house was amazing, and Clark was a fantastic host, genuinely helpful without being overbearing. None of the fussy instructions on how to clean things like at many other places I've stayed, and he went above and beyond to make our stay a good one, even shipping a box of items I had left behind. The house itself is so cute and full of character. We were staying there during out Gilmore Girls themed Connecticut road trip, and the house fit right in. Clark is a character and was great to talk to. Highly recommend and will definitely stay again if we come back to New England.

★★★★★

- Andrea

July 2024

Clark was a gracious host and the home was really cool with a lot of character. I love older homes so this was right up my alley. It's worth noting that if you are expecting something brand new and renovated in a modern style-this is not the place to stay. Clark has maintained the original features and decor of the home with great care and thoughtfulness. This also means that it doesn't have some "modern" amenities like central air (there are window units) or lots of outlets (I was able to work remotely there as Clark had upgraded the outlets for 3-pronged electronics) or super fast wifi (Clark is actively working on this but again I was able to work remotely for 5 days). Please review the description before booking-Clark has provided VERY detailed and accurate information about what to expect. I had a great experience and I would definitely recommend to others looking to stay in a historic home.

★★★★★

- Kate

July 2024

Clark is a great host and his place is special. We loved walking around the grounds, chilling in the hammock, swinging on the swings, listening to records, and getting to know Clark. The only thing that's a little confusing is that the listing says "prices listed are for double occupancy," which means for 2 bedrooms. While the place sleeps more, if you want more than 2 bedrooms tell Clark that in your request to book. We came with our two teenaged kids who had no interest in sharing a bedroom, much less a bed. It all got sorted easily, but just wanted to put it on your radar if you're not traveling with two sets of willing bedmates.

★★★★★

- Monique

June 2024

Beautiful Old World remote peaceful home. Clark was thoughtful and friendly. We loved staying in his home

★★★★★

- Emily

June 2024

Clark was an extremely helpful host! My partner and I came in from Cooperstown, NY for the CTRD double header event in Trumbull on June 1. EVERYWHERE was booked and we were given a break when we found Clark’s property last minute. It was PERFECT for what we needed. Clark greeted us on our arrival and popped out to say “bye” as we left.

We left early on Saturday to go to the event and when we came back (after 2AM!) there was a plate of fresh made cookies waiting for us to enjoy.

Peaceful place with easy going hosts and a lovely “trail” within the property. Close enough to all the goings on and foods, but far enough to “escape” the hustle and bustle of urban life.

If you’re looking for a 5 star Hilton type stay, this is NOT the place for you. 10/10 recommend if you’re open to experiences and life.

★★★★★

- Brian

May 2024

I don’t know that there is a more evocative place in New England than this manse and property. The gardens are exquisite both visually and aromatically — our children LOVED the tree swings and outdoor meals on the big table will remain indelibly in our memories herefrom. The house is thoroughly appointed, and the brand new bathroom is especially handsome and accommodating. Staying here should be on everyone’s list of incomparable places to visit. Clark and Kamilla are extremely responsive to all questions and provided all the needed information.

★★★★★

- Andrea C.

March 4, 2024

We had our gender reveal here .. We were so lucky to find such a beautiful place last minute.. Clark was incredibly amazing, and more than accommodating host! he even made cookies for us.. My husband and I definitely plan on visiting again🙌🏾❤️

★★★★★

- Cristina

August 2023

Clark was a wonderful host - friendly, genuinely interested in us, available but not intrusive, and extremely understanding and supportive with a minor medical issue (completely unrelated to the house). The beds were comfortable, the table was set each day, and yummy homemade cookies were waiting for us after our first day. We appreciated the gathering spaces, the bagels and cream cheese, and felt completely at home the whole visit. Thank you, Clark!

★★★★★

- Elizabeth

July 2023

Clark's home was easy to find, very comfortable, and in the perfect location for the wedding we attended in a nearby town. Clark was responsive and very helpful, and we would definitely request to stay again if we are back in this part of Connecticut.

★★★★★

- Cat

July 2023

Our flights were cancelled the same morning by the airline, with no prior warning. We found Clark and Kamilla ’s place in AirBnb and were really lucky that they agreed immediately to having us stay the Forth of July long weekend. It’s a beautiful old house set in a wonderfully maintained garden. Clark and Kammila were excellent hosts, attentive and responsive. We enjoyed sitting on the covered porch in the evenings, freshly baked cookies, which magically appeared each day and in abundance, walking along the Connecticut River, cider tasting at the Yankee Cider Company, lunch at the Two Wrasslin Cats, fresh fruit from the farmers market in the school nearby on Saturdays. We came for the excellent hiking which you can find all around and a short drive away over East Haddam Swing Bridge and were not disappointed. There is a comfy shared living and dining room and a fridge where you can leave drinks and snacks. Thanks so much again, for having us stay, Clark and Kamilla!!

★★★★★

- Elena

October 2022

I really recommend Clark's house, it is such a wonderfully unique experience made infinitely better by Clark himself. We were greeted with such a friendly attitude, and we instantly got the feeling that nothing was too much trouble. The house is beautiful, as is the area. We will definitely be back. Thank you so much for accommodating us really last minute and for going above and beyond to ensure we felt comfortable.

★★★★★

- Walter

October 2022

we had a nice weekend at Clark's family house. The house made cookies were a nice surprise for the breakfast!

★★★★★

- Anna

July 2022

Amazing stay, Clark was super easy to reach and made us feel very welcome! Highly recommend the stay!

★★★★★

- Tanya

July 2022

Clark’s house was extremely clean and neat. The history of the house was fascinating, Clark gave us a tour that was very interesting. We appreciated the continental breakfast food that he had for us in the morning as we were so busy I’m going to the Deep River muster. I would definitely stay there again!

★★★★★

- Kyra

June 2022

Clark was everything an AirBnB host should be. His home is lovely and charming, and he even went so far as to bake us our favorite cookies! (which we’re waiting for us upon arrival and were literally the most delicious!) I would highly recommend staying with Clark if you want a relaxing time. Staying here felt like we were visiting family. 🙂

★★★★★

- Fred S.

Jul 20, 2022

This is a wonderful Bed and Breakfast in the historic town of Higganum CT. The property is surrounded by historic homes, beautiful natural scenery, and a general New England atmosphere. I have stayed here during three summers, and the Spirit of 76 house has acted as a home away from home.

The hosts are very gracious and the space is simple but elegant. It feels lived in and very much a part of family history. There are multiple rooms, and I have stayed both upstairs and downstairs. The bathrooms are up to date and the beds are comfortable. The rooms also have window a/c for use during the summer.

★★★★★

- Emily

Clark was an extremely helpful host! My partner and I came in from Cooperstown, NY for the CTRD double header event in Trumbull on June 1. EVERYWHERE was booked and we were given a break when we found Clark’s property last minute. It was PERFECT for what we needed. Clark greeted us on our arrival and popped out to say “bye” as we left.

We left early on Saturday to go to the event and when we came back (after 2AM!) there was a plate of fresh made cookies waiting for us to enjoy. Peaceful place with easy going hosts and a lovely “trail” within the property. Close enough to all the goings on and foods, but far enough to “escape” the hustle and bustle of urban life.

If you’re looking for a 5 star Hilton type stay, this is NOT the place for you. 10/10 recommend if you’re open to experiences and life.

★★★★★

- Tim B.

2018

A Vary charming and original early Connecticut house. Beautifully taken care of by a family that's owned the house for over a century. Situated near a scenic reservoir, open fields and wooded hiking trails. A lovely place. Highly recommend.

★★★★★

- Katherine B.

A hidden gem. Quite a charming and snug place with private rooms, a vintage vibe, and wonderful hospitality.

★★★★★

- Gil S.

2018

The house is a unique and landmarked wonderful mansion and has a fantastic lawn and grounds, a very tranquil and relaxing and beautiful location.

The room was large and comfortable and clean, and the bed and beddings very nice and it was quiet. I slept very well! The bathroom and bedroom were both very clean, as was the house in general.

★★★★★

- Monique

Stayed a few nights Beautiful Old World remote peaceful home. Clark was thoughtful and friendly. We loved staying in his home

★★★★★

- Katie R.

2023

It was a great location for everything we wanted to do in Essex, Chester, Deep River, and not even a bad drive to Mystic. Everything was very clean and comfy and Clark was wonderful at getting us settled in- even made us homemade cookies!

★★★★★

- Tim Z.

Dec 27, 2022

Clark, our host, was there to greet us as we parked. There was a sunny peaceful garden view from our first floor corner room, which included a large, beautifully tiled ensuite. The surprise of freshly baked gingerbread was so welcoming. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere and comfortable beds ensured that we had a restful and refreshinhg weekend. A great B & B that we would love to visit again.

★★★★★

- Jennifer S.

Sep 12, 2022

If you like taking a trip back in time (but with running water and electricity) this is the place for you! We had a great time! The breakfast was pretty basic and a help yourself style. When we arrived there were homemade cookies that were fantastic.

★★★★★

- Nini M

May 12, 2022

We had a wedding at Lyman Orchards and were looking for a cozy New England B&B and this was the perfect find. Clark and Kamilla were fabulous hosts who welcomed us with homemade chocolate chip cookies. The B&B was clean with slippers for all of the guests along with a stocked bathroom with all of the amenities. We are looking forward to our next trip where we have more time to walk around the property!

★★★★★

- John G.

A gem of a B&B in central Connecticut. Clark is a welcoming host who takes great pride in his renovated vintage home. The rooms are comfortable and quiet, and the warm cookies baked early night by Clark are a delicious touch to the end of the day. The five acres of beautiful grounds and gardens are a treat all their own.

★★★★★

- Eva L.

Apr 5, 2023

We spent the weekend at Spirit of 76 House and we couldn't enjoy it more! We stayed upstairs in a room with a double bed and had our own bathroom. The house itself is a beautiful, historic old mansion with lots of antique furniture and a big beautiful garden. We stayed at the beginning of April so we could enjoy the nice weather just sitting and relaxing there. Both the room and the house are well equipped, we definitely didn't miss anything. The bed was super comfortable and we slept really long on Sunday:)

Clark was a great host, he entertained us with many stories about the house and its history and showed us places worth seeing in the area. And he baked the best cookies for us! I definitely recommend staying at Spirit of 76 House!

★★★★★

- Greta L.

Jun 24, 2018

My 13 year old son and I needed a place to stay in the East Haddam area. All hotels were booked, must have been June Weddings. I found Spirit of 76 on a search and totally lucked out. Clark and his wife were so accommodating and friendly, and the price beat all surrounding hotels.

Upon our arrival, I was smiling ear to ear at the slipper station. I am a “take the shoes off in the house” kind of person myself, so I immediately felt at home. We stayed on the first floor in a quaint little room with two single beds, perfect for what we needed. The bathroom was huge and the dining room was right across the hall.

★★★★★

- Steven G.

Jun 20, 2018

The house is beautiful and quiet and remote and a perfect getaway. The hosts were funny, extremely accommodating, friendly, and wonderful. I highly recommend this historic house, which is situated on a quiet street, with acres of peace and serenity. Looking forward to going back soon!

★★★★★

- Steven G.

2020

Wonderful!!

★★★★★

- Mary H.

Jul 28, 2018

The Spirit of 76 House was a great place to stay. Clark and his wife, Kamilla were wonderful hosts. Clark takes care of the house and the guests and Kamilla tends the lovely garden. I stayed in the downstairs room which has two single beds and a huge, beautiful renovated bathroom. It was so quiet and dark when I pulled the shades down that I slept until 9:00 am, which I haven't done since I was a kid!

★★★★★

- The Lifestylist

2020

We were lucky to find a place last minute at a fair price. We were greeted by amazing chocolate chip cookies and restored old floors. You wanted the walls to talk to you just because of the history. The walls were covered with photos of the family who have owned the home for decades. Our room had a marriage certificate hanging on the wall for 1800's. It was fun just looking at them all. The owners, the sweetest people you'll ever meet! The only drawback was a shared bathroom, but all the guests were very courteous.

★★★★★

- Juliette S.

2019

Stayed at this quaint and friendly bnb for a friend's Bachelorette weekend. The house has a ton of character and the grounds made for a refreshing morning stroll through the wildflowers. Highly recommend, especially for larger groups. Lots to do in the area, we were there for brownstone Park which is nearby, as well as the restaurants and bars. Lots of fun!

★★★★★

- Gail R.

2019

Lovely b&b

★★★★★

- Anthony H.

2019

Very nice and quiet location