The exhibition, which celebrates the life and career of Mr. Gillette, is useful preparation for a visit to Gillette Castle.

Group trips on Connecticut River near Gillette Castle.

The Gillette Castle was the perfect setting.

Masons who built it included Martin Lanzi and his brother Antonio, who both later helped build the Gillette Castle across the river.

Gillette Castle in Deep River, Conn.; (203) 526-2336.

While most of Gillette's work has long been forgotten, his last great masterpiece is still well known today: Gillette Castle in Hadlyme, Connecticut.

Gillette Castle, impressive no matter how you get there, looms above the river 15 miles upstream from Essex.

Gillette Castle, Gillette Castle State Park, 67 River Road, Hadlyme.

"Gillette Castle never would have been built under these guidelines," John Lord said, referring to the historic fieldstone castle that is now part of a state park.

Those who like to approach Gillette Castle from the water will have to wait until June.