Hartford's Golden Crowns: The Colt Factory

While the Colt Factory is best known for the iconic blue onion dome, it is actually gold that that sits at the peak of the former weapons factory. At the very top of the dome is a colt, the symbol of Colt Firearms. Built in 1865 after the original Colt factory burnt down, the blue onion dome is perhaps Hartford's most iconic symbol. Unmistakable while driving on I-91, every day thousands of motorosts pass the onion dome.



Located on a quiet Huyshope Ave across the street from a large concrete wall and railroads tracks  the factory seems almost forgotten when standing in front of it. Like much of Hartford, it has been merely neglected, not forgotten and despite it's somewhat ragged appearance,  the factory now houses rather expensive apartments.

Update: We received a report that when the original onion dome was removed to be replaced, it was riddled with bullet holes. Apparently it was attractive for some late night target practice. Hilarious, yet Sad. And so Hartford.