Examine the lives and experiences of the first two owners of the Phelps-Hatheway House, Shem Burbank and Oliver Phelps. Although the two lived during the same period, they experienced the events of the late 18th century in very different ways. How did their political views and the opportunities they pursued during the American Revolution change their fortunes – or lack thereof?  Understand the role of Connecticut in the American Revolution, examine Colonial era trade and commercial exchange, consider land and real estate speculation and Indigenous people’s land rights, and consider the ways we display wealth and status.