Order Here
Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine – East Granby, Connecticut
A National Historic Landmark Brought to Life Through Immersive Digital Storytelling
Located in East Granby, Connecticut, Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine is one of the most historically significant sites in New England. Originally opened in 1707 as the first chartered copper mine in the American colonies, it was later repurposed in 1773 as the nation’s first official state prison.
The site is notable not only for its unique transition from an industrial mining operation to a penal institution, but also for its layered history tied to colonial industry, Revolutionary War prisoners, and early American penal reform. The underground mine tunnels stretch hundreds of feet below ground and are open for exploration alongside the remains of the prison structures above.
Today, Old New-Gate is operated by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development / State Historic Preservation Office and serves as a museum and educational site. It offers a rare opportunity to explore both the subterranean mine network and the above-ground prison ruins—a combination that makes it truly one-of-a-kind.
With Capture Visual Marketing’s Matterport 3D Virtual Tour, visitors can now explore the full extent of the site remotely, including areas that are often difficult to access in person. For the first time, the tour digitally connects the underground copper mine with the historic grounds above, creating a seamless and fully navigable experience that enhances accessibility and engagement for schools, researchers, and the public.
This project reflects our commitment to preserving cultural heritage and making it accessible through immersive digital storytelling