Putnam Memorial State Park was created in 1887 in order to preserve the grounds and remnants of the winter encampment of a brigade of the Continental Army from November 1778 to April 1779. The site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a State Archaeological Preserve.

The program for restoration included reconstruction of the intersection of State Rts. 58 and 107 to improve traffic safety; reconfiguration of the entrance grounds to increase parking and public accessibility and adaptive reuse and restoration of the 1893 open-air park pavilion as an enclosed, fully climate controlled public visitor’s center.

The project began with archaeological reconnaissance and testing to determine loci of archaeological sensitivity. The loci, once identified, informed site design and utility layout. Site work included new vehicular entrance, realignment of east park boundary, parking for 50 cars, pedestrian walkways, relocation of a significant sculpture by Anna Hyatt Huntington, installation septic system and site utilities, and public accessibility.

The project required extensive collaboration and involvement of numerous State agencies, the Town of Redding, Park Friends Group, volunteer organizations, and identified users. Multiple and sequential agency reviews included DEEP, DAS, CT SHPO, State of Connecticut DOT, Office of the State Building Official, and relevant Utility companies.