The Ukrainian Museum and Library of Stamford has been named the winner of the annual Connecticut Treasures competition, receiving over 61% of the public’s votes in an online poll and surpassing seven other finalists from different counties across the state. The recognition was officially announced by the American Institute of Architects of Connecticut (AIA CT), confirming that this Ukrainian institution will serve as the official “Connecticut Treasure” for 2025.
The Connecticut Treasures program, initiated by AIA CT, promotes the most outstanding historic buildings from all eight counties of the state each year. The winner is chosen by Connecticut residents through an open public vote, which this year took place from July 21 to 27, drawing attention to architectural heritage and the communities that preserve it.
The museum building itself—commonly known as the Chateau—was originally built in 1867 as a private estate for Edward Quintard. In 1933, Bishop Constantine Bohachevsky purchased the estate, and by 1937, the museum and library were officially opened on the premises. Since then, the museum exhibitions have expanded to occupy two full floors of the mansion, while the library and archives have been moved to a separate building, the former St. Basil Preparatory School. The stone façade, slate roof, and tall windows of the structure continue to evoke the elegance of late 19th-century European-inspired architecture.
Today, the museum holds extensive collections of fine art, folk art, and religious artifacts, while the library houses over 60,000 books and rare periodicals. The institution is one of the oldest Ukrainian cultural organizations in North America and continues to actively promote Ukrainian heritage among scholars, the Ukrainian diaspora, and the American public.
The official award presentation will take place at the annual AIA Connecticut ceremony in December this year. The museum’s administration has already announced a special exhibition program in honor of the recognition and invited all supporters to contribute through memberships or donations.
Additional Information: The Ukrainian Museum and Library is located at 161 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT 06902. It is open to visitors from Tuesday to Friday, 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Weekend visits are available by appointment only. The museum is closed on public holidays. For more information, please contact (203) 323-8866 or email ukrmuseum.ct@gmail.com.
Author: Diana Khudko