with Richard F. Donohue, Historian for Town of Cromwell

$12 (Members 10% discount)

Purchase tickets here

In 1869, the J. & E. Stevens Company of Cromwell, Connecticut, began making iron banks that performed an action when coins were deposited into them. Today, these mechanical banks are highly collectible and sell for great prices at auction. Join Donohue as he demonstrates his collection of banks and explains the history and amusing tales that inspired their design. From historical figures to a menagerie of critters, the banks offer a glimpse into the interest and pastimes of yesteryear.

Image: Historic photo of J. and E. Stevens Co., northeastern building, c.1880; courtesy Mechanical Bank Collectors of America website.

The Museum’s educational programming is supported by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut; Connecticut Humanities; the Randolph and John Dirks Fund; the John and Kelly Hartman Foundation; the Sally Bill Children’s Education Fund; the Betty M. Challgren Education Fund; the Elizabeth Matthews Hubbard Education Fund; the Ingalls Foundation Education Fund; the Sali Godard Riege Educational Fund; and the Lelan F. Sillin, Jr. Education Endowment Fund.

Educational & Travel Program Refund Policy
No refunds for Broadway bus trips or Miss Florence’s Teas after transaction is complete. Refunds for programs over $20 are subject to a $20 cancellation fee. Refunds (less $20 fee) are offered for cancellations made prior to a program’s noted refund date. Programs without a refund date can be cancelled one hour prior to event. No refunds after program takes place. To request a refund or to transfer program fee into a donation, please email david@flogris.org. (Updated February 2022)