A Long History of Preserving Tradition, Community and Nature

By Jude Mead

Sitting atop a hill on Colebrook Road (Route 182) in Norfolk, the Old Newgate Coon Club stands as a testament to the preservation of tradition, community, and nature and is among one of the oldest sporting clubs in Connecticut. It was first established in 1897 in the small town of Hartland Hollow and later moved to this area in 1936 when it purchased 630 acres of scenic landscapes spanning Norfolk and Colebrook. Throughout the years, this club has woven itself into the fabric of the town and has a long history of being a good steward to the land. Club President John Parshley says the club works closely with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Natural Resources Conservation Service to manage the acreage. “For many years we have worked together to improve wildlife habitat and land management that benefits both our members and involves the club in important state and regional conservation efforts,” said Parshley. 

What sets the Old Newgate Coon Club apart from other sporting clubs is its commitment to preserving and celebrating nature. From the club’s inception, members have dedicated themselves to environmental conservation and outdoor education. One project involved creating a viable habitat for New England cottontails. “There was too much forest and not enough meadows, so acres were cleared to help wildlife. When you have open areas connected to forest it helps the rabbits as well as birds, deer, and other animals,” he said. Clearing the forested area also allows dense small trees to grow back, creating a thick cover for the rabbits’ needs. Brush piles were added to protect the cottontail when threatened by predators.     

The club’s name stems from a blend of historical context and local folklore. Raccoons have always been a common sight in the region’s woodlands and were once hunted for sport. It is said that the club originated in the late 1800s after a tragedy occurred on a return trip from a raccoon hunt. The hunt was part of a seasonal adventure for five friends who lived in Granby. Because they heard the hunting was better in Hartland Hollow, the men decided to hire a local resident to guide them. The guide stepped too close to the rim of a ledge and fell to his death. This unfortunate incident, it is said, served as the impetus for the hunters to establish the club, perhaps in honor of him. 

Although the club has come a long way since three-day raccoon hunts, the basic purpose of the club has never changed. Throughout the years, the club has organized events and programs. According to Parshley, the club offers its members a rifle and pistol range, fishing in two stocked ponds, hunting, camping, and picnicking, trap shooting, an archery range, and many social activities. “There are steak cookouts in the summer and a pig roast in the fall. There is a children’s fishing derby, a fall turkey shoot and trap shooting. There is also a Department of Engergy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) certification course given in archery as well as program courses for gun safety. These are offered to the community through the DEEP,” he said.

There is also a clubhouse that consists of twenty-five rooms and a dining area that offers meals prepared by the club steward. Along with its members, the Old Newgate Coon Club over the years has hosted the Norfolk Curling Club, Rotary Club, and many weddings as well as private parties. In the aftermath of the 1955 flood, it even opened its doors to the American Red Cross, and for months people were sheltered and fed during this time of emergency. Through its events, educational initiatives, and commitment to the environment, the Old Newgate Coon Club and its members continue to be an important part of the community. As the club looks toward the future, its mission remains unwavering: to foster a shared appreciation of the outdoors while emphasizing the importance of. responsible conservation. Parshley said the process to becoming a member is simple. “You fill out an application and have a member sponsor you. You then must be voted in if there are spots available. Right now, there are some openings. The membership meets monthly and the meeting is open to all members. Meetings are typically held the third Tuesday of each month. To find out more about the Old Newgate Coon Club or its membership go to newgatecoonclub.com.