The History of the Steamboat Hotel

Join the Stonington Free Library and the Stonington Historical Society on
Sunday, March 13 th at 5 p.m. for a free presentation on the history of the Steamboat Hotel. Stuart Vyse, a
a retired psychology professor who taught at Connecticut College, Providence College, and the University
of Rhode Island, will present the talk.

Vyse, an accomplished writer and an expert on superstition and irrational behavior, began researching
the building he lives in, the former Steamboat Hotel, as “something of a pandemic side gig.” Built by
Gilbert Wheeler before 1840, the Steamboat Hotel has witnessed almost 200 years of Stonington's
history. From the early days of the railroad and steamship lines, it has hosted intemperate railroad
workers, immigrants, businessmen, dignitaries, families, and war veterans.

Vyse calls his research “a labor of love and a gift to the village that has been my home for over 20
years.” He is working on a manuscript of the history of the Steamboat Hotel and guests will be able to
pre-order copies of his forthcoming book.

The presentation is free for all and is a hybrid event – guests can join in person at the Stonington Free
Library (20 High St, Stonington, CT 06378). Presentation begins promptly at 5 p.m. Space is limited;
guests attending in-person are asked to wear a mask. The presentation will also be live-streamed on the
Stonington Historical Society’s Facebook page. (https://www.facebook.com/stoningtonhistoricalsociety)