In 1917 Charles F. Carr, local newspaper editor, donated his collection of natural history items as well as his personal collection of books to the city of New London. This collection became the core of the New London Public Museum. A building to house the museum was erected in 1932 next to the public library. The buildings combined in 1986 and the museum is in the lower level. Today people from all over visit the museum to explore exhibits about local, natural and Native American history. Changing displays, events and programs keep our visitors coming back time and again. A growing preservation program at the museum ensures that generations to come will be able to discover history, science, art and explore a wider world at their local museum.