Sharon, Connecticut
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| Sharon, Connecticut | |
|---|---|
| Name | Sharon |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Subdivision type | U.S. state |
| Subdivision name | Connecticut |
| Subdivision type1 | County |
| Subdivision name1 | Litchfield |
| Subdivision type2 | Metropolitan statistical area |
| Subdivision name2 | Northwest Hills Planning Region |
| Established title | Settled |
| Established date | 1739 |
| Established title2 | Incorporated |
| Established date2 | 1739 |
| Government type | Selectman–town meeting |
| Leader title | First selectman |
| Leader name | Brent M. Colley |
| Area total km2 | 153.8 |
| Area land km2 | 150.5 |
| Area water km2 | 3.3 |
| Elevation m | 228 |
| Population total | 2672 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | auto |
| Timezone | Eastern |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Coordinates | 41, 52, 44, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 06069 |
| Area code | 860 and 959 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 09-67700 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0213505 |
| Website | www.sharonct.org |
Sharon, Connecticut. Sharon is a town in Litchfield County located in the scenic Northwest Hills Planning Region of Connecticut. Incorporated in 1739, it is known for its historic town character, significant Revolutionary War history, and expansive natural landscapes including a portion of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. The community maintains a vibrant cultural life centered around institutions like the Sharon Playhouse and the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Mohican people before being purchased from them by settlers from Salisbury in 1739. Sharon played a notable role during the American Revolutionary War, serving as a major supply depot for the Continental Army; the Salisbury iron district, which included Sharon, produced cannon and shot for forces under George Washington. In the 19th century, the town became a center for industry and agriculture, connected by the Housatonic Railroad and home to several mills along the Webatuck Creek. Prominent residents have included the abolitionist and publisher John Brown, who lived briefly at the John Brown House, and the painter Eric Sloane, who depicted its rural landscapes.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 153.8 square kilometers, of which 150.5 square kilometers is land and 3.3 square kilometers is water. Sharon is bordered by Salisbury to the north, Cornwall to the east, North Canaan to the west, and the state of New York to the south. The terrain is part of the Litchfield Hills, featuring rolling hills, valleys, and significant water bodies including Mudge Pond and a portion of the Housatonic River. A section of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes through the town, and much of the land is preserved within the Housatonic State Forest and the Sharon Audubon Center.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,672. The population density was approximately 17.8 people per square kilometer. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations identifying as African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino. The median household income historically exceeds the average for Connecticut, and a significant proportion of housing units are seasonal or vacation homes. Educational attainment levels are high, with many residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher.
Economy
The economic base is diverse, with no single dominant industry. Key sectors include professional services, healthcare, retail trade, and arts and recreation. Tourism is a significant component, driven by the town's historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural venues like the Sharon Playhouse and the Sharon Historical Society. Agriculture remains active, with several farms operating within the town. Major employers include Sharon Hospital, a facility of the Nuvance Health system, and the Hotchkiss School, a prestigious preparatory school located in the neighboring town of Lakeville but closely associated with the region.
Culture and recreation
Sharon hosts a variety of cultural institutions and annual events. The Sharon Playhouse presents professional summer stock theater, while the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon, a Carnegie library, serves as a community hub. The Sharon Audubon Center, a wildlife sanctuary operated by the National Audubon Society, offers educational programs and trails. Recreational opportunities are abundant, with access to hiking on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, boating and fishing on Mudge Pond and the Housatonic River, and skiing at nearby Mohawk Mountain. The town green, anchored by the First Congregational Church of Sharon, is a classic New England centerpiece.
Government
Sharon employs a Selectman–town meeting form of government. Executive authority is vested in a three-member Board of Selectmen, led by a First selectman. Legislative power resides in the open town meeting. The town is part of Connecticut's 5th congressional district and is represented in the Connecticut General Assembly within the 30th Senate and 64th House districts. Local services include a resident State Police troop, volunteer Sharon Fire Department, and the Sharon Ambulance Squad.
Category:Towns in Connecticut Category:Towns in Litchfield County, Connecticut Category:1739 establishments in Connecticut