Stratford, a historic town nestled in Fairfield County, Connecticut, traces its roots back to 1639 when it was founded by Puritan leader Reverend Adam Blakeman and about 35 families fleeing religious persecution in England, initially named Cupheag before being renamed after England's Stratford-upon-Avon. Positioned in the picturesque New England region along the shores of Long Island Sound and at the mouth of the Housatonic River (with the river forming its eastern boundary), Stratford offers a blend of coastal charm and natural beauty. Encompassing a total area of 19.9 square miles (including 17.6 square miles of land and 2.3 square miles of water), the town had a population of 52,355 according to the 2020 census, with recent projections estimating growth to around 54,000 by 2025. Just an hour's drive from bustling parts of New York City, Stratford is renowned for its waterfront amenities, which include 18 miles of coastline featuring public bathing beaches like Long Beach and Short Beach, five marinas, multiple fishing piers, and two public boat-launching facilities. The town's commitment to community well-being is captured in its mission statement: "To enhance the quality of life within the community by providing services with professionalism and a commitment to excellence." This dedication is apparent when driving through Stratford's well-kept neighborhoods and green spaces, such as the 250-acre Roosevelt Forest with its hiking trails and ponds, or the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge along the Great Salt Marsh, a key stopover for migratory birds. Beyond its natural allure, Stratford has a rich aviation heritage, home to Sikorsky Aircraft (now part of Lockheed Martin), where Igor Sikorsky pioneered the first successful commercial helicopter in 1939, and it continues to produce military helicopters like the Black Hawk. Notable figures associated with the town include author Stephen King (who lived there as a child), musician Moby, and Sandy Hook hero Victoria Leigh Soto, adding layers of cultural and historical significance. The local economy also thrives with innovative companies like Athletic Brewing Company, the leading U.S. producer of non-alcoholic craft beer, while attractions such as the National Helicopter Museum and Boothe Memorial Park provide educational and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Stratford, Connecticut, is steeped in rich history, making it a
captivating destination for those interested in America's past, from
colonial-era homes to aviation pioneers. As you explore this charming
town, take the opportunity to visit these noteworthy sites, where you
can delve into stories of early settlers, industrial innovation, and
preserved natural landscapes. Many of these landmarks are listed on the
National Register of Historic Places, offering authentic glimpses into
bygone eras through architecture, artifacts, and interactive
experiences.
Ephraim Wheeler House, 470 Whippoorwill Lane. This
historic residence, added to the National Register of Historic Places in
1992, exemplifies early American architecture with its post-and-beam
construction, reflecting the town's colonial roots. It's a prime spot to
appreciate Stratford's longstanding residential heritage.
Isaac Lewis
House, 50 Paradise Green Place. Listed on the National Register in 1991,
this home showcases period design elements from the 19th century,
situated in a scenic area near Paradise Green Park, which serves as a
community hub with local shops and eateries. The surrounding park adds a
vibrant, everyday historical context to your visit.
Stratford
Point Lighthouse, located at Stratford Point near the mouth of the
Housatonic River. This iconic structure, added to the National Register
in 1990, stands at the eastern end of Long Beach and has guided mariners
since the 19th century. It offers stunning views of the river and Long
Island Sound, highlighting Stratford's maritime history and its role in
coastal navigation.
Sikorsky Memorial Airport (BDR IATA), ☏ +1
203-466-6205. As the cradle of the American helicopter industry,
Stratford proudly claims this site where Igor Sikorsky achieved the
first successful helicopter flight in 1939 at his local plant. Today,
the 800-acre airport—owned by nearby Bridgeport but situated in
Stratford—features two paved runways, a helipad, hangars, and commuter
services, including helicopter flights to New York City. A memorial
Corsair fighter plane on a pedestal honors World War II aviation
efforts, and the facility remains a bustling center for Sikorsky
Aircraft's military and commercial helicopter production.
Roosevelt
Forest. Owned by the town, this expansive 250-acre mixed deciduous
woodland in northern Stratford was established in the 1930s as a Works
Progress Administration project under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with well-maintained hiking
trails, campsites equipped with cooking pits, picnic tables, and serene
paths ideal for birdwatching and nature immersion.
Boothe Memorial
Park, Main Street Putney, ☏ +1 203-381-2046. This 32-acre park
(sometimes noted as 30 acres) was bequeathed to Stratford by brothers
David and Stephen Boothe, featuring an eclectic collection of structures
that make it one of New England's most unique architectural displays.
Highlights include a carriage house, Americana Museum, miniature
lighthouse and windmill, clocktower museum, trolley station, chapel,
blacksmith shop, and the original toll booth from the Merritt Parkway's
Sikorsky Bridge (in use from 1940 to 1988). The site, listed on the
National Register in 1985, also hosts the Boothe Memorial Astronomical
Society for stargazing events and has been enhanced by the Friends of
Boothe group.
Capt. David Judson House, 967 Academy Hill. Constructed
in 1723 by David Judson and listed on the National Register in 1973,
this well-preserved museum house features original 18th-century
furnishings and offers public tours showcasing colonial life. Notably,
the cellar is thought to have served as slave quarters during that era.
It's part of the Stratford Historical Society's offerings, which include
the adjacent Catharine B. Mitchell Museum and Beach Family Carriage
House for a comprehensive look at local history.
Nathan B. Booth
House, 6080 Main Street, ☏ +1 203-378-6489. This 1843 post-and-beam
farmhouse, recognized on the National Register in 1992, represents
classic 19th-century rural architecture and provides insight into
Stratford's agricultural past.
Sterling Homestead, 2225 Main Street,
☏ +1 203-378-2606. Built in 1886 by John William Sterling and designed
by architect Bruce Price (known for Yale University halls), this
Romanesque mansion was donated after Cordelia Sterling's death and now
functions as a vibrant community center. Listed on the National Register
in 1976, it hosts recreational programs, events, and volunteer
activities, with beautiful grounds including a gazebo, rose garden, and
a 2-acre field for gatherings.
Connecticut Air & Space Center, 550
Main St (check in at 550 Main St, then proceed to buildings 6 and 53), ☏
+1 203-380-1400, CASC@ctairandspace.org. Open Tu, Th, Sa 9AM–5PM (closed
M, W, F, Su). Housed in the historic Stratford Army Engine Plant
complex—where WWII-era aircraft like the Vought Corsair, Sikorsky S-60
"Skycrane" helicopter, and Wright radial engines were manufactured—this
museum blends displays with active restoration workshops for vintage
warbirds. Admission is for visitors 18 and older, with a requested $9
donation; a briefing and clearance are required upon check-in.
National Helicopter Museum, 2480 Main St (at the Stratford Eastbound
Railroad Station), ☏ +1 203-375-8857. Open Memorial Day to mid-October:
F-Su 1-4PM. Located in the former Stratford railroad station, this
museum celebrates aviation history with photographic exhibits on
helicopters, intricate models, and a display of the Lycoming T53 jet
engine, designed by Dr. Anselm Franz and produced at the local Army
Engine Plant. It's an essential stop for understanding Stratford's
pivotal role in helicopter development.
Stratford, Connecticut, is conveniently accessible via several major
roadways, making it easy to reach by car from neighboring areas in New
England and along the East Coast. Key routes include Interstate 95 (also
known as the Connecticut Turnpike), US Route 1, the Merritt Parkway
(Route 15), Route 8, Route 108 (Nichols Avenue), Route 110 (East Main
Street and River Road), Route 113 (Lordship Boulevard and Main Street),
and Route 130 (Stratford Avenue and Ferry Boulevard). These highways
intersect the town, providing straightforward entry points from cities
like Bridgeport to the south or New Haven to the north. For those
traveling from farther afield, such as New York City (about an hour
away), I-95 is the most direct option, though traffic can be heavy
during peak hours.
In addition to driving, you can arrive by train
via the Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line, which stops at Stratford
Station in the heart of town. Trains run frequently from Grand Central
Terminal in New York or from New Haven, with schedules available on the
MTA website. Fares vary based on time and distance, but it's a reliable,
scenic alternative to avoid highway congestion. Public buses from
surrounding areas, operated by Greater Bridgeport Transit (GBT) or
CTtransit, also connect to Stratford, though routes and times should be
checked in advance for connections from places like Bridgeport or
Milford.
The town's layout centers around Main Street (Route 113), where
you'll find numerous shopping plazas, restaurants, and attractions
clustered together, making it ideal for exploration on foot. Strolling
along Main Street is a popular and practical way to navigate the
downtown area, offering a chance to browse local shops, grab a coffee,
or enjoy the historic ambiance without needing a vehicle.
For broader
coverage, the Greater Bridgeport Transit (GBT) bus system provides
public transportation throughout Stratford and neighboring towns. While
not operating 24/7 as sometimes noted in older guides, most routes run
from early morning (around 5-6 AM) until late evening (up to 10 PM or
later on some lines), with service seven days a week. Key routes like
GBT Route 1 (along Barnum Avenue) and the Coastal Link (via Stratford
Avenue and Post Road) stop at major spots such as shopping centers,
grocery stores, and the Dock Shopping Center. Bus stops are plentiful,
often at street corners, and real-time tracking is available via the GBT
app or website. Fares are affordable, typically around $1.75 per ride,
with options for passes.
Biking is another favored mode of transport
among locals, thanks to Stratford's relatively flat terrain and
dedicated paths. The town features several bike-friendly trails,
including the Stratford Greenway (a multi-use path starting behind
DeLuca Field on Main Street, perfect for leisurely rides), the
Pequonnock Valley Greenway (connecting to nearby Bridgeport with scenic
river views), and trails in Roosevelt Forest (which offer wooded loops
suitable for mountain biking or casual cycling). Helmets are
recommended, and bike rentals may be available at local shops. For added
convenience, rideshare services like Uber are widely used in Stratford,
providing on-demand options for short trips or when public transit isn't
ideal—simply input your destination in the app for estimated costs and
wait times.
Stratford, Connecticut, offers endless entertainment options
throughout the year, ensuring you'll never run out of ways to have fun.
From seasonal outdoor adventures to indoor activities, the town caters
to families, friends, and solo explorers alike. Popular pastimes include
ice skating on public rinks or at dedicated facilities, catching the
latest blockbusters at local cinemas like the nearby Regal Cinemas in
Milford (just a short drive away), browsing diverse shops, or enjoying a
round of mini golf amidst scenic settings. For nature lovers, don't miss
the town's 18 miles of coastline along Long Island Sound, featuring
spots like Short Beach for swimming, picnicking, and sports such as
tennis or volleyball, or Long Beach for birdwatching and relaxing
strolls. History buffs can explore Boothe Memorial Park with its quirky
architecture and gardens, or hike the trails at Roosevelt Forest, which
spans over 400 acres with ponds ideal for fishing and wildlife spotting.
Aviation enthusiasts should visit the National Helicopter Museum or the
Connecticut Air & Space Center, both showcasing fascinating exhibits on
local aerospace history.
Stratford Speedway (closed as of 2025), 725
Barnum Ave Cutoff, ☏ +1 203-375-1171. Previously a go-to spot for
family-friendly go-kart racing, this venue offered affordable thrills
with options for all ages, including party bookings. Unfortunately, it
has permanently closed, but similar excitement can be found at nearby
karting tracks in surrounding towns like On Track Karting in
Wallingford.
Sports Center of Connecticut, 784 River Rd (Rt. 110),
Shelton (on the Stratford/Shelton border), ☏ +1 203-929-6500. This
massive family entertainment complex, spanning over 20 acres, is a
year-round hub with more than 150,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor
fun. Highlights include the world's only double-decker NHL-sized ice
arenas for public skating and hockey programs, a jungle-themed laser tag
arena, an 18-hole nature-inspired mini golf course complete with
waterfalls and rivers, weather-protected batting cages for baseball and
softball, fun bowl bowling lanes, a video game arcade, a heated
double-decker golf driving range (rated among America's top 100), target
paintball, and virtual reality experiences. It's perfect for birthday
parties, group outings, or casual visits with friends and family. Open
daily with hours varying by season: typically Mon-Thu 9:30am-9pm,
Fri-Sat 9:30am-9pm, Sun 9:30am-8pm (check website for ice rink and
seasonal activity schedules). Admission prices start around $10-15 per
activity, with combo packages available for savings.
Stratford boasts a convenient array of shopping centers where you can
find virtually everything without venturing far— from everyday
essentials to discounted designer fashion. Bargain hunters will
appreciate outlets like Marshalls and Burlington for high-end clothing
and home goods at reduced prices, while pharmacies such as CVS, Rite
Aid, and Walgreens stock necessities like groceries, health items, and
beauty products. For unique finds, explore local boutiques offering
jewelry, vintage consignment, and specialty teas. The town's proximity
to major highways makes it easy to access, and many centers feature
ample parking, dining options, and even EV charging stations.
Paradise Shopping Plaza, 3637 Main Street (in the Paradise Green area).
This vibrant plaza anchors the community with a mix of retail and
dining. Key stores include Rite Aid for pharmacy and convenience needs,
a sports store for athletic gear, a card and gift shop, MJ Thomas
Jewelers for estate jewelry and precious metal purchases (family-owned
since 1976 with GIA-accredited experts), Paradise Green Consignments for
high-end designer clothing and accessories like Michael Kors and Gucci,
7-Eleven for quick snacks, Open Door Tea for artisanal teas and a
relaxing cafe vibe, and Paradise Pizza for Greek and Italian eats
(operating since 1969). It's a great spot for casual shopping and meals,
open daily with varying store hours.
Station House Square, 2505 Main
Street, ☏ +1 203-378-7188. Ideally situated across from the Stratford
train station for easy access via public transit, this mixed-use center
combines retail, offices, and dining in a convenient 50,000-square-foot
space. Standout tenants include an Optical Vision store for eyewear and
exams, jewelry shops, and several restaurants such as Station House Wine
Bar & Grille for upscale American fare and wines, Tiffany's for diverse
cuisine with excellent service, and a sushi spot for fresh rolls and
Asian dishes. Additional perks include ample parking and proximity to
downtown amenities—perfect for a quick stop after commuting.
Ryders
Landing Shopping Center, 88 Ryders Lane (right off Merritt Parkway Exit
53). This accessible center, with parking for over 400 vehicles and
recent upgrades like resurfaced lots and EV charging stations, serves as
a one-stop hub near major highways. It features three restaurants for
varied dining, a bakery for fresh treats, a coffee shop for quick
caffeine fixes, a liquor store for beverages, a bank for financial
services, a veterinarian clinic (like Wylie Kissel Kari B. BVMS), a hair
salon, audiology services, a primary care medical office, and The
Cutting Wedge deli for sandwiches and casual eats. Ideal for errands or
a relaxed outing, with spaces available for lease if you're eyeing
business opportunities.
Stratford, Connecticut, is a food lover's paradise, boasting an
abundance of restaurants on practically every corner. From casual diners
to family-friendly spots, there's something for every palate. Be sure to
explore these standout eateries, each offering unique flavors and
atmospheres.
Acapulcos Mexican Family Restaurant & Cantina, 2419 Main
Street, ☏ +1 203-378-7900. This vibrant Mexican eatery provides a
welcoming environment perfect for families, featuring a dedicated party
room, a lively bar area, and options for both indoor and outdoor
seating. The menu highlights crowd-pleasers like the fiesta platter,
fajita chimichanga, enchilada suizas, fajita wrap burrito, and pork
carnitas tacos, all complemented by freshly made pico de gallo that's
often praised for its spice. Reviews rave about the excellent service,
great food, and authentic Mexican vibes, with specials during happy
hours. Open Monday through Thursday from 11am to 9pm, with extended
hours on weekends for takeout and dining.
Panda House, 88 Ryders
Lane, ☏ +1 203-378-4107. Specializing in Chinese cuisine, this spot
offers dine-in, pickup, and delivery options for convenience. Standout
dishes include their top-rated chicken and broccoli, pork fried rice,
and sesame chicken, all noted for being hot, fresh, and authentic.
Customers appreciate the above-average quality and variety, making it a
go-to for family meals or quick bites.
Gaetano's Deli, 1478 Barnum
Ave, ☏ +1 203-377-8860. Known for its exceptional and friendly service,
this Italian-style deli serves up incredibly fresh meats and sandwiches
that have earned it accolades like "Best Deli in CT" from Food Network.
The menu features a wide selection of authentic Italian options, salads,
and catering services tailored to your needs—if it's not listed, just
ask. Reviews highlight the freshness, accommodating staff, and
high-quality catering for events.
Bella Napoli, 112 Barnum Avenue, ☏
+1 203-375-7700. A haven for pizza and Italian fare, this restaurant
also offers delivery and incorporates Greek specialties like chicken
souvlaki with rice. Their pizzas are cooked to perfection—non-greasy,
with unique options like triangular Sicilian slices—and the wings are a
hit for gatherings. Diners love the friendly atmosphere and authentic
flavors that stand out in a competitive pizza scene.
For a relaxing spot to unwind with drinks, head to Paradise Pizza Bar, 3610 Main Street, ☏ +1 203-377-0476. While primarily a restaurant serving Greek and Italian cuisine for over 56 years, it includes a separate bar room ideal for game days with football specials or holidays like St. Patrick's Day. The menu extends beyond pizza to classic Italian meals in decent portions, though reviews are mixed on the pizza's consistency—some find it undercooked or greasy, while others enjoy the variety and friendly service. Open daily from 11am to 10pm for dine-in or takeout.
When it's time to rest, Stratford offers comfortable accommodations
ranging from suites with home-like amenities to beachfront retreats.
Homewood Suites Stratford, 6905 Main St, ☏ +1 203-377-3322. This
all-suite hotel features fully equipped kitchens with microwaves,
full-size refrigerators, and two-burner stoves, making it ideal for
extended stays. Guests enjoy spacious, clean rooms, comfortable beds, a
solid complimentary breakfast with options like waffles, and standout
customer service at the front desk. Amenities include an indoor pool,
24-hour fitness center, free WiFi, and ample parking—though some note
concerns with air quality in rooms.
Quality Suites, 1500 South
Avenue. This hotel provides spacious suites with premium bedding, sofas,
desks, fridges, microwaves, and king-size beds for a comfortable stay.
Reviews highlight the ample storage, better-than-average breakfast, and
overall cleanliness, with free WiFi, wired internet, a fitness center,
and a golf course on-site. It's praised for value and space, though
check-in experiences can vary.
Surfside Hotel, 10 Washington Parkway.
Just steps from the water, this charming beachfront motel offers
stunning views and a beautiful setting for relaxation, with rates around
$300. The on-site restaurant is elegant with an outdoor bar, and rooms
come with beach towels, mini fridges, TVs with streaming, and
boho-inspired details for a retro vibe. Guests love the spacious,
spotless accommodations, comfy beds, and pristine cleanliness, making it
a fun, unique spot—though prices can rise for upgrades.
Pre-Colonial Period: Native American Inhabitants
Before European
settlement, the area now known as Stratford, Connecticut, was inhabited
by the Paugusset tribe, part of the broader Algonquian-speaking peoples.
Archaeological sites and artifacts reveal their daily lives, traditions,
and customs, with the region known as "Cupheag," meaning "harbor" or
"place of shelter" in the Paugussett language, highlighting its
strategic location along the Housatonic River and Long Island Sound.
This Native American presence left a lasting cultural impact, though
much of their land was later incorporated into colonial settlements.
Founding and Colonial Era (1639–1776)
Stratford's colonial
history began in 1639 when a group of Puritan settlers, led by Reverend
Adam Blakeman and William Beardsley, along with approximately 35
families (or 16 according to some legends), arrived at Mac's Harbor on
the banks of the Housatonic River. These settlers, part of the Great
Migration from England in the 1630s, sought religious freedom and
established a utopian community where church and town governance were
intertwined under Blakeman's leadership. Initially called "Pequannock"
in 1639 and then "Cupheag" in 1640, the town was officially incorporated
on April 13, 1643, and renamed Stratford in honor of
Stratford-upon-Avon, England—William Shakespeare's birthplace,
reflecting the settlers' cultural ties.
Blakeman ruled until his
death in 1665, enforcing strict religious dictums. However, by the late
17th century, the second generation of settlers rejected this austerity,
leading to relaxed religious controls and greater oversight from the
Connecticut colonial government. Early industries included oystering and
shipbuilding, leveraging the town's coastal location. The original lands
extended far beyond modern boundaries, eventually giving rise to
neighboring towns like Trumbull, Shelton, Monroe, and parts of
Bridgeport.
Notable events from this period include the tragic witch
trials in Connecticut, during which Goody Bassett was hanged in
Stratford in 1651—one of the earliest such executions in the colonies.
In 1707, Stratford became home to the first Anglican church in
Connecticut, founded and ministered by Rev. Dr. Samuel Johnson, marking
a shift toward religious diversity. Descendants of the founding families
played key roles in expanding the region; for instance, some left in
1666 to establish Newark, New Jersey, due to ongoing religious disputes,
while others founded Cambria (later New Lockport), New York. U.S.
President Gerald Ford traced his ancestry to founding family leader
William Judson. Colonial architecture, such as the Samuel Hawley House
and the First Congregational Church, served as centers for religious and
social life, preserving the era's heritage.
Revolutionary War
(1775–1783)
Stratford contributed significantly to the American
Revolutionary War, producing several prominent figures. Major General
David Wooster, born in Stratford, became a key military leader in the
Continental Army. Joseph Platt Cooke (1730–1816), also a native, served
as a colonel, state politician, and delegate to the Continental
Congress. Andrew Adams (1736–1797), another Stratford-born resident, was
a Connecticut delegate to the Continental Congress and a signer of the
Articles of Confederation. The town's residents supported the patriot
cause, reflecting its role in the broader fight for independence.
19th Century: Growth, Secession, and Early Industrialization
In
the 19th century, Stratford emerged as a principal settlement in
southwestern Connecticut, with a population of 3,438 by 1820. It spawned
several daughter towns, including Shelton (1789, from Ripton), Monroe
(1823, from Huntington), Nichols (1725 as Unity, later North Stratford
in 1744), Long Hill (merged with Unity in 1744), Trumbull (1797, from
North Stratford), and Bridgeport (1821, partly from Fairfield and
Stratford lands). This period saw the town's boundaries shrink as these
areas gained independence.
The Industrial Revolution transformed
Stratford's economy, with manufacturing in chemicals, electrical parts,
hardware, plastics, and paper products taking root. Shipbuilding
continued to thrive, and figures like Captain David Judson contributed
to innovations. During the Civil War, Stratford supported the Union
cause, with sites like the Boothe Memorial Park later commemorating
military history. By the late 1800s, infrastructure improvements, such
as a trolley line connecting Lordship to Bridgeport in 1914, facilitated
growth.
20th Century: Aviation Boom and Manufacturing Legacy
The 20th century marked Stratford's rise as an industrial powerhouse,
particularly in aviation. In 1939, Igor Sikorsky, a Russian-American
inventor, developed the VS-300—one of the world's first successful
commercial helicopters—in Stratford, founding Sikorsky Aircraft
Corporation on September 14, 1939. This event established Stratford as
the birthplace of the American helicopter industry. During World War II,
Vought-Sikorsky produced 7,829 F4U fighters from 1940 to 1952 for the
war effort and the Korean War. Lycoming Engines began producing Wright
radial engines in 1939, later shifting to turbines post-war.
Sikorsky
became the town's largest employer, producing Marine One helicopters for
U.S. presidents since 1957. In 2015, Lockheed Martin acquired Sikorsky
for $9 billion, maintaining its presence. Other industries included
Raymark Industries (formerly Raybestos), which manufactured brake pads
from 1919 to 1989 but left a legacy of environmental contamination with
asbestos, lead, and PCBs, resulting in two Superfund sites (Raymark and
the Stratford Army Engine Plant). Cleanup efforts began in 1993, costing
over $200 million, with residential remediation completed by 1995 and
ongoing work for areas like Ferry Creek.
The Stratford Army Engine
Plant (SAEP), a U.S. Army facility along the Housatonic River, operated
until its closure in 1998 under Base Realignment and Closure. The site
was auctioned in 2008 and is slated for a $1 billion resort
redevelopment. Culturally, the American Shakespeare Theatre opened in
1955, hosting stars like Katharine Hepburn and James Earl Jones, but it
ceased operations in the mid-1980s and burned down in 2019. Roosevelt
Forest, a 250-acre park named for Franklin D. Roosevelt, was developed
in the 1930s through Works Progress Administration projects. Population
growth accelerated, reaching 52,355 by 2020, with increasing diversity
(76.4% White, 14.3% Black, 13.8% Hispanic or Latino).
Modern Era
(21st Century)
Today, Stratford is part of the Greater Bridgeport
metropolitan area, with a population density of 2,974.7 per square mile.
It shifted to a mayor-council government in 2005, with current Mayor
Laura Hoydick (Republican) leading since 2017. Economic drivers include
Sikorsky (now Lockheed Martin), the National Helicopter Museum, and
emerging businesses like Athletic Brewing Company, which holds 61% of
the U.S. non-alcoholic craft beer market as of 2021. Sikorsky Memorial
Airport provides helicopter services, though owned by Bridgeport.
Preservation efforts by the Stratford Historical Society and sites like
the Captain David Judson House (built 1723) offer insights into colonial
life. Cultural ties to Shakespeare persist through library events and
the former theater's legacy. Environmental remediation continues,
balancing industrial heritage with redevelopment. Stratford's history
reflects a blend of religious idealism, industrial innovation, and
community resilience.
Stratford has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, and
with it come several eerie tales of hauntings and supernatural events.
Here are some of the most notable legends:
The Poltergeist of
Phelps Mansion
One of Stratford's most infamous haunted stories
revolves around the Phelps Mansion, a Greek Revival home built in 1826
on Elm Street. In 1848, Reverend Eliakim Phelps and his family moved in,
but by March 1850, they were tormented by a violent poltergeist. The
disturbances began after a Sunday church service when the family
returned to find their home ransacked—doors flung open, furniture
overturned—but nothing stolen. In the dining room, they discovered
bizarre effigies made from stuffed clothing arranged in lifelike poses,
some kneeling in prayer or reading Bibles, with a demonic puppet hanging
nearby.
Over the next six months, the activity escalated: objects
like umbrellas and silverware flew across rooms, 71 windows shattered
without cause, and family members were physically assaulted—pinched,
slapped, and bruised. The children, especially 17-year-old Anna and
12-year-old Henry, were primary targets; Henry was pelted with stones,
lifted into the air, and found inexplicably relocated, while Anna
endured nightly banging and welts. Mysterious notes appeared with taunts
like "For fun" or signed by demons such as "Beelzebub." Séances revealed
conflicting spirits, including a fraudulent law clerk trapped in hell.
The family fled to Philadelphia in late 1850, but the poltergeist
followed briefly before ceasing upon their return in 1851. Locals often
blamed the ghost of Goody Bassett, a woman hanged for witchcraft nearby
in 1651. The mansion later served as a convalescent home in the 1940s,
where staff reported whispers and doors moving on their own. It burned
in 1970, was abandoned, and demolished in 1974 after reports of a
vanishing child apparition. No definitive explanation exists—some
suggest demonic forces, others psychokinesis from stressed family
members.
Goody Bassett, the Witch of Stratford
Connected to
the Phelps legend is Goody Bassett, accused and hanged for witchcraft in
1651 near the future site of the mansion. Details of her trial are
scarce, but she was convicted based on typical 17th-century evidence
like "witch marks" or neighbor testimonies. Her spirit is said to
linger, potentially fueling the 1850 poltergeist as revenge or unrest.
Some accounts tie her to other local hauntings, though evidence is
anecdotal. Her story highlights Connecticut's early witch hysteria,
predating Salem by decades.
Boothe Memorial Park Hauntings
Boothe Memorial Park, a 32-acre site overlooking the Housatonic River,
is home to what’s claimed as America’s oldest continuously occupied
homestead (built on a 1663 foundation). In the early 20th century,
eccentric brothers David and Stephen Boothe turned it into a quirky
museum village with odd structures like a windowless "technocratic"
building, mini lighthouse, clocktower, windmill, and even a Merritt
Parkway toll booth. Now a public park on the National Register of
Historic Places, it’s also reputedly haunted.
Visitors report
disembodied voices, knocking, and oppressive feelings in the main
homestead. The "Sad Room" upstairs induces overwhelming grief, a little
girl’s apparition peers from windows, and stairs give the sensation of
someone approaching. The third floor, once closed due to activity, adds
to the mystery. In the adjacent Boothe Cemetery, people experience cold
spots, feelings of being followed, breaths on necks, and a sense of
doom. Paranormal groups have captured orbs, mists, and EVPs, with
incidents like stomping feet, shirt-tugging, and heavy oppression in
buildings like the "basket building." The brothers' spiritualist
leanings may contribute to the lingering energy.
Abandoned Places
in Stratford, Connecticut
Stratford also features several forsaken
sites, from industrial ruins to forgotten beaches, offering a glimpse
into faded history. Note: Many are on private or restricted
property—explore legally and safely.
Pleasure Beach and Long
Beach West
This 63-acre barrier peninsula, connected to Stratford via
Great Meadows Marsh, was once a bustling resort with cottages, a
carousel, theater, and ballroom. Accessible only by ferry or a long
wooden bridge (burned in 1996), it thrived until the 1950s but was
abandoned after fires, storms, and disputes left it isolated. By the
1990s, over 40 cottages stood derelict, vandalized and overgrown.
Bridgeport owned part but neglected it; Stratford manages the western
end. Today, it's a nature preserve with ruins—crumbling homes,
graffiti-covered structures, and remnants of amusement rides. Artists
have repurposed some buildings, but it's eerie, with reports of
isolation and decay. Reopened to the public in 2014 via water taxi or
trails, it's popular for birdwatching but retains a ghostly vibe.
Ross and Roberts Manufacturing Plant
This former industrial site
closed in 2008 due to high taxes and costs. Once a manufacturing hub,
it's now a sprawling abandoned complex with decaying buildings, rusting
machinery, and overgrown lots. Urban explorers note its vast, empty
halls and remnants of operations, but it's hazardous with potential
asbestos and structural issues.
Abandoned Recycling Center
A
massive former recycling plant in Stratford, explored by urbex
enthusiasts for its industrial scale—conveyors, sorting rooms, and piles
of forgotten waste. Closed years ago, it's filled with graffiti, debris,
and a sense of post-apocalyptic neglect. Access info is scarce online,
but it's known for photography ops, though entry may be illegal or
dangerous.
These spots blend history, mystery, and decay, making
Stratford a hotspot for those intrigued by the supernatural and
forgotten. If you're visiting, respect local laws and consider guided
tours for safety.