Branford, Connecticut
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| Branford, Connecticut | |
|---|---|
| Name | Branford |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Subdivision type | U.S. state |
| Subdivision name | Connecticut |
| Subdivision type1 | County |
| Subdivision name1 | New Haven |
| Subdivision type2 | Metropolitan area |
| Subdivision name2 | Greater New Haven |
| Established title | Settled |
| Established date | 1644 |
| Government type | Selectman–town meeting |
| Leader title | First Selectman |
| Leader name | James B. Cosgrove |
| Area total km2 | 71.5 |
| Area land km2 | 55.5 |
| Area water km2 | 16.0 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 28,273 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern |
| Utc offset | −5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | −4 |
| Coordinates | 41, 16, 48, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 06405 |
| Area code | 203/475 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 09-07310 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0213402 |
| Website | www.branford-ct.gov |
Branford, Connecticut. Branford is a coastal town in New Haven County within the Greater New Haven metropolitan area. Settled in 1644 and incorporated in 1685, it is historically significant for its early colonial roots and later industrial development along the Branford River and Long Island Sound. The town is known for its extensive shoreline, the historic Branford Green, and as the home of the Thimble Islands.
History
The area was originally the territory of the Mattabesec and later the Quinnipiac peoples. In 1644, the land was purchased from the local sachem Sowheag by settlers from Wethersfield led by Samuel Swain and Jasper Crane, establishing the plantation of Totoket. The settlement was renamed Branford after Brentford in Middlesex, England. Early industry centered on milling and farming, with the Branford River powering numerous mills. During the American Revolutionary War, local privateers operated from Branford's harbors. The 19th century saw the rise of manufacturing, including the Branford Lock Works and the Malleable Iron Fittings Company, which later became part of the Eastern Malleable Iron Company. The arrival of the New York and New Haven Railroad in 1852 spurred further growth and the development of shoreline communities like Indian Neck and Pine Orchard.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 71.5 square kilometers, of which 55.5 square kilometers is land and 16.0 square kilometers is water. Branford's geography is defined by its position on Long Island Sound, featuring a deeply indented coastline with several harbors, inlets, and the distinctive Thimble Islands archipelago. Major water bodies include the Branford River, which bisects the town, and Lake Saltonstall, a reservoir created by the New Haven Water Company. The town contains several distinct villages, including Short Beach, Stony Creek, and Branford Center. A significant portion of the town's western border is formed by the West River, adjacent to the city of New Haven.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, Branford had a population of 28,273. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino. The median household income has historically been above the state average, reflecting its status as an affluent suburb. Population density is highest in the village centers and along the shoreline. The town is part of the New Haven–Milford, CT Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Economy
Branford's economy has evolved from its historical base in manufacturing and oystering to a more diversified mix of healthcare, professional services, retail, and light industry. Major employers include Yale New Haven Hospital satellite facilities and the Branford Hills Health Care Center. The Stony Creek granite quarries, which supplied stone for structures like the Statue of Liberty pedestal and Grand Central Terminal, were historically significant. The town's numerous marinas, restaurants, and shops, particularly in areas like Stony Creek and the Branford Green, support a vibrant tourism and service sector. Several corporate offices and research firms are located in the town, leveraging its proximity to Yale University and the University of New Haven.
Government and infrastructure
Branford operates under a Selectman–town meeting form of government, led by a First Selectman and a Board of Selectmen. The town is part of Connecticut's 3rd congressional district, represented in the United States House of Representatives by Rosa DeLauro. Key infrastructure includes the Branford Fire Department, the Branford Police Department, and the Branford Electric Railway Association, which operates the Shore Line Trolley Museum. The town is served by the Connecticut Transit bus system and is bisected by Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1. The Branford Hand House and the Harrison House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Culture and notable people
Branford hosts several annual events, including the Branford Festival on the Branford Green and the Stony Creek Puppet House summer theater series. Cultural institutions include the Branford Historical Society, the James Blackstone Memorial Library, and the Shore Line Trolley Museum. Notable residents have included inventor Eli Whitney, who conducted early experiments here; Civil War general and Medal of Honor recipient Alfred H. Terry; actress Glenn Close; baseball player Craig Breslow; and musician Michael Bolton. The town's natural beauty has attracted many artists and writers, contributing to its vibrant cultural scene.
Category:Towns in Connecticut Category:Towns in New Haven County, Connecticut Category:Populated coastal places in Connecticut Category:1685 establishments in Connecticut