Cheshire, Connecticut
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| Cheshire, Connecticut | |
|---|---|
| Name | Cheshire, Connecticut |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Nickname | The Bedding Plant Capital of Connecticut |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | U.S. state |
| Subdivision name1 | Connecticut |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | New Haven |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | 1780 |
| Government type | Council-Manager |
| Leader title | Town Manager |
| Leader name | Sean M. Kimball |
| Leader title1 | Town Council |
| Leader name1 | Rob Oris, Chair |
| Area total km2 | 86.3 |
| Area total sq mi | 33.3 |
| Area land km2 | 84.6 |
| Area land sq mi | 32.7 |
| Area water km2 | 1.7 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.7 |
| Elevation m | 73 |
| Elevation ft | 240 |
| Population total | 28543 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern |
| Utc offset | −5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | −4 |
| Coordinates | 41, 30, 07, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 06410 |
| Area code | 203/475 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 09-14160 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0213409 |
| Website | www.cheshirect.org |
Cheshire, Connecticut, is a town in New Haven County, known for its historic town green, strong public school system, and significant role in the horticultural industry. Incorporated in 1780, the community has evolved from its agricultural roots into a residential suburb while maintaining a distinct identity. The town is bisected by the Quinnipiac River and is home to landmarks like the Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum and the former Cheshire Correctional Institution.
History
The area now known as Cheshire was originally part of the New Haven Colony and was purchased from the indigenous Mattabesec people in 1694. Initially called New Cheshire Parish, it was incorporated as a town by an act of the Connecticut General Assembly in 1780, named after the English county. Early industry centered around the Quinnipiac River, powering mills for products like scythes and paper. The town gained notoriety in 2007 for the Cheshire, Connecticut, home invasion murders, a crime that led to the repeal of the state's death penalty. Historical sites include the First Congregational Church of Cheshire and the Cheshire Historical Society.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Cheshire has a total area of 33.3 square miles, of which 32.7 square miles is land and 0.7 square miles is water. The town's topography is characterized by rolling hills and is drained by the Quinnipiac River and its tributaries, including Tenmile River. It borders the towns of Southington, Meriden, Wallingford, Hamden, and Prospect. Notable natural features include Roaring Brook Falls and the extensive park system managed by the town.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 28,543. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with growing communities of Asian and Hispanic or Latino residents. The median household income is significantly higher than the state average, reflecting the town's affluence. Population density is moderate, with a housing stock that includes historic Colonial Revival homes and modern subdivisions. Demographic data is collected and published by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Economy
Cheshire's economy has transitioned from agriculture and light manufacturing to a base of professional services, retail, and technology. It was historically famed as "The Bedding Plant Capital of Connecticut," with major operations like Prides Corner Farms and Pond View Farms. Today, major employers include Covidien, Avery Dennison, and Macklin Inc. The town is part of the Greater Hartford economic region and benefits from proximity to Interstate 691 and the Wilbur Cross Parkway. Commercial activity is concentrated along South Main Street and near the Cheshire Village district.
Government and infrastructure
Cheshire operates under a Council-Manager system, with a nine-member Town Council setting policy and a professional Town manager overseeing daily operations. The town provides full municipal services, including a dedicated Police Department and Fire Department. Key infrastructure includes the Cheshire Water Pollution Control Facility and the Cheshire Public Works Department. The town is represented in the Connecticut General Assembly and sends students to regional entities like the Aquatic Resources Education Center.
Education
Public education is managed by the Cheshire Public Schools district, which includes Cheshire High School, two middle schools, and several elementary schools. The district is consistently highly ranked within Connecticut and has received recognition from the U.S. Department of Education. Cheshire High School's athletic teams, the Rams, compete in the Southern Connecticut Conference. The town is also home to private institutions like St. Bridget of Sweden School and hosts a campus of the University of Connecticut.
Notable people
Notable individuals associated with the town include John G. Rowland, the former Governor of Connecticut; Steve Young, a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers; and Mike O'Malley, an actor and writer known for Yes, Dear. Scientist and inventor Sylvester Marsh, who built the Mount Washington Cog Railway, was born in Cheshire. Other residents have included author Wally Lamb, Olympic gymnast Rebecca Bross, and Major League Baseball player Scott Burrell.
Category:Towns in Connecticut Category:Towns in New Haven County, Connecticut Category:1780 establishments in Connecticut