Westport, Connecticut
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| Westport, Connecticut | |
|---|---|
| Name | Westport |
| Settlement type | Town |
| Subdivision type | State |
| Subdivision name | Connecticut |
| Subdivision type1 | County |
| Subdivision name1 | Fairfield |
| Subdivision type2 | New England town |
| Subdivision name2 | Westport |
| Established title | Settled |
| Established date | 1693 |
| Established title2 | Incorporated |
| Established date2 | 1835 |
| Government type | Representative Town Meeting |
| Leader title | First Selectman |
| Leader name | Jennifer Tooker |
| Area total km2 | 86.7 |
| Area land km2 | 52.0 |
| Area water km2 | 34.7 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 27,141 |
| Population density km2 | 522.0 |
| Timezone | Eastern |
| Utc offset | −5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | −4 |
| Coordinates | 41, 8, 26, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 06880 |
| Area code | 203/475 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 09-83500 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0211952 |
| Website | www.westportct.gov |
Westport, Connecticut. Westport is a coastal town in Fairfield County, Connecticut known for its affluent character, vibrant arts scene, and scenic location on Long Island Sound. Incorporated in 1835 from parts of Fairfield, Norwalk, and Weston, it has evolved from a colonial farming and maritime community into a prominent New York City suburb and cultural hub. The town is home to numerous celebrities, artists, and business leaders, and features a historic downtown, several beaches, and extensive parklands.
History
The area was originally home to the Paugusset Native American tribe and was settled by colonists in 1693 as part of the "Bankside Farmers" area of Fairfield. It developed as a center for shipping and onion farming, with its deep-water harbor on the Saugatuck River facilitating trade. The community separated and was officially incorporated as Westport in 1835, later becoming a center for the American Impressionist art movement with artists like J. Alden Weir. In the 20th century, it transformed into a suburban enclave, attracting figures from the Madison Avenue advertising world, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald's model for The Great Gatsby's Jay Gatsby, and later becoming a haven for notable residents including Paul Newman, Martha Stewart, and Harvey Weinstein. Historic sites include the National Hall and the Kellogg House.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 86.7 square kilometers, of which 52.0 square kilometers is land and 34.7 square kilometers, or 40.03%, is water. Westport is bordered by Norwalk to the southwest, Wilton to the northwest, Weston to the north, Fairfield to the east, and Long Island Sound to the south. Major geographic features include the Saugatuck River, which flows through the downtown and into the Sound, and notable beaches such as Compo Beach and Sherwood Island State Park, Connecticut's first state park. The town's landscape ranges from coastal marshes and barrier beaches to rolling uplands.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, Westport had a population of 27,141. The population density was 522.0 inhabitants per square kilometer. The racial makeup was predominantly White at 88.3%, with Asian at 6.1%, Hispanic or Latino of any race at 4.5%, and smaller populations of Black or African American and other groups. The town is known for its high levels of educational attainment and wealth, with a median household income significantly above the state and national averages. Many residents commute to employment centers in Stamford, New York City, and other parts of the New York metropolitan area.
Economy
Westport has a diversified economy centered on professional services, finance, and the arts. It is the headquarters for several corporations, including Bridgewater Associates, one of the world's largest hedge funds, and Terex Corporation. The downtown area along Main Street and the Post Road features a mix of upscale retail, restaurants, and offices. Historically, the town was a center for the Madison Avenue advertising industry in the mid-20th century, earning it a mention in the AMC series Mad Men. Other significant employers include the Westport Country Playhouse and the Wakeman Town Farm.
Culture and recreation
Westport has a long-standing reputation as an arts colony, anchored by institutions like the Westport Country Playhouse, a historic theater founded in 1931 and associated with Lucille Lortel and Joanne Woodward. The Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts offers free outdoor summer concerts. Cultural events include the Westport Library's book festivals and the Westport Historical Society's exhibitions. Recreational amenities are extensive, featuring Compo Beach, Sherwood Island State Park, and the Longshore Club Park golf course. The town is also known for its support of the arts in education through programs at Staples High School.
Government and infrastructure
Westport operates under a Representative Town Meeting form of government, led by a First Selectman and a Board of Selectmen. The current First Selectman is Jennifer Tooker. Essential services are provided by the Westport Police Department and the Westport Fire Department. The town is served by the Westport School District and is part of the Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line, with stations at Westport and Greens Farms, providing rail service to Grand Central Terminal. Major roadways include the Merritt Parkway and Interstate 95, and the town is in the 203/475 telephone area codes.
Category:Towns in Connecticut Category:Populated coastal places in Connecticut Category:Fairfield County, Connecticut