West Hartford, a charming town in Connecticut, proudly embraces
the motto "Where City Style meets Village Charm." As a prominent
suburb of the state capital,
Hartford, it boasts a population of
approximately 64,000 residents as of 2025, with a median
household income around $125,616 and a low poverty rate of about
6%. Recognized in 2025 by U.S. News & World Report as the top
small city in Connecticut (ranking No. 12 nationally among best
small cities and No. 19 overall), West Hartford is celebrated
for its secure residential areas, deep-rooted history and
cultural offerings, and dynamic retail and restaurant scenes.
The energetic downtown hub, West Hartford Center, seamlessly
integrates with Blue Back Square—a lively mixed-use development
featuring upscale shops, diverse eateries, outdoor events, and
entertainment venues that attract locals and visitors alike for
shopping sprees, live music, and seasonal festivals.
Strategically positioned, West Hartford lies roughly 100 miles
southwest of Boston and 100 miles northeast of New York City,
making it an ideal spot for day trips or weekend getaways from
these major metropolitan areas.
The Children's Museum, 950 Trout Brook Dr, ☏ +1 860-231-2824. This
longstanding institution, formerly known as the Science Center of
Connecticut, features interactive exhibits, a state-of-the-art
planetarium, and a mini zoo tailored for children in kindergarten
through sixth grade. Established in 1927 as a non-profit dedicated to
sparking curiosity and creativity in kids aged 12 and under, it operates
under the tagline “Igniting Curiosity Through Science and Nature.” As
Connecticut's largest children's museum and one of the oldest in the
U.S., it includes the expansive Gengras Planetarium— the state's biggest
space theater—offering immersive shows on astronomy and space
exploration. A highlight is the wildlife sanctuary, home to over 70
exotic animals from various global habitats, including reptiles, birds,
and mammals, with daily animal encounters and educational programs. In
recent years, the museum has expanded its offerings to include STEAM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities, dinosaur
exhibits, hands-on labs, and traveling classroom programs for schools
and groups. It now emphasizes scheduled Open Play sessions and
interactive events rather than general admission, serving hundreds of
thousands of visitors annually through exhibits, workshops, and
outreach. Membership options provide unlimited access, including to the
affiliated Roaring Brook Nature Center in nearby Canton for outdoor
learning experiences. For the latest hours, programs, and ticket
reservations, visit thechildrensmuseumct.org.
Noah Webster House and
West Hartford Historical Society, 227 S Main St, ☏ +1 860-521-5362,
info@noahwebsterhouse.org. Open M-F 1-4PM and Sat 10AM-2PM (self-guided
tours available; guided options for groups). This historic site honors
Noah Webster, the influential lexicographer famous for authoring the
first American Dictionary of the English Language in 1828 and the
"Blue-Backed Speller," an educational staple that sold millions and
inspired the naming of Blue Back Square in town. Born in 1758 in what
was then the West Division of Hartford, Webster's preserved 18th-century
birthplace—now a museum—allows visitors to delve into his life,
revolutionary-era contributions, and lasting impact on American
education, spelling, and culture. Operated by the West Hartford
Historical Society, the venue also showcases exhibits on local history,
including 19th-century textiles, pottery, colonial life, and community
developments. Additional programming includes seasonal events like West
Hartford Hauntings (theatrical cemetery tours in October), educational
workshops for schools, and a gift shop with Webster-themed items.
Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and students (ages 6-17),
and free for children 5 and under and members. Explore more at
noahwebsterhouse.org.
CowParade. This whimsical public art initiative
has infused West Hartford with playful character and supported
charitable causes since its local debut in 2003. Headquartered right in
town at CowParade Holdings, the global organization—responsible for
staging over 100 events worldwide—coordinates the creation and display
of life-sized fiberglass cows painted by local artists. In West
Hartford, more than 50 uniquely themed cows (often five feet tall) were
originally placed in front of homes, businesses, and public spaces,
raising funds for organizations like Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters,
Make-A-Wish Connecticut, the West Hartford Library Foundation, and other
nonprofits. Though the initial parade concluded, many of these colorful
sculptures remain as permanent fixtures scattered throughout the area,
adding a fun, artistic flair to strolls in West Hartford Center and
beyond. The event's legacy continues with occasional revivals and
collaborations, making it a delightful scavenger hunt for families and
art enthusiasts—keep an eye out for cows sporting themes from pop
culture to local landmarks. For updates on future parades or to learn
about the organization's history, check cowparade.com.
The West Hartford Symphony Orchestra hosts a diverse array of musical
performances throughout the entire year. This non-profit volunteer
organization, which first began performing in 2002, brings together a
dedicated community of musicians and enthusiasts, featuring volunteer
players from ages 14 to 88 who include both skilled amateurs and
professionals, all connected through their shared passion for the
musical arts. Contact them at (860) 521-4362, with their base at 47
Hilltop Drive in West Hartford. The majority of their events are staged
at the West Hartford Meeting and Conference Center, conveniently
situated inside the local Town Hall.
Cinépolis, situated at 42 South
Main Street in the heart of Blue Back Square, can be reached at +1
860-236-4111. This upscale cinema restores glamour and sophistication to
the film-viewing tradition, boasting an intimate setup with just six
screens, plush reclining leather seats, in-seat waiter service for
gourmet food and drinks, and a fully stocked bar for an elevated
experience. It offers 359 fully reclining seats across its auditoriums,
making it a cozy spot for moviegoers seeking luxury.
Movies & Mimosas
at Cinépolis provides a delightful way to relive timeless classic movies
on a grand screen, paired with refreshing mimosas available before or
even during the screening. On weekends, enjoy specials like $6 Bloody
Marys and mimosas until 3 PM, adding a brunch-inspired twist to your
cinematic outing.
The West Hartford Reservoir, contactable at +1
860-278-7850, serves as an idyllic haven for outdoor enthusiasts,
encompassing over 3,000 acres of lush, protected forestland managed by
the Metropolitan District (MDC). It features more than 30 miles of
smooth paved paths perfect for runners, cyclists, and casual strollers,
alongside a network of hiking trails varying in difficulty to suit all
skill levels. Year-round appeal includes well-maintained picnic groves
for gatherings, while winter brings opportunities for cross-country
skiing and snowshoeing amid the scenic woodlands. Access the main
entrance at 1420 Farmington Avenue, with Reservoir 6 entry about 1.1
miles west on Route 44. The area is also popular for mountain biking on
its trails and roads.
Elizabeth Park, bordered by Asylum Avenue and
Prospect Avenue, is reachable at +1 860-231-9443 and welcomes visitors
from sunrise until sunset. This expansive and picturesque park, spanning
102 acres across Hartford and West Hartford, offers a serene escape with
meticulously curated gardens, elegant gazebos, winding trails for
leisurely walks, and on-site dining at the Pond House Café. A highlight
is its world-famous rose garden—the oldest public rose garden in the
United States—featuring thousands of blooms in peak season, along with
other horticultural displays like perennial and herb gardens.
Established in 1897 and listed on the National Register of Historic
Places, it includes recreational facilities, concert spaces, and
sweeping vistas, making it a cherished gem in the region's park system.
The Playhouse on Park, located at 244 Park Road, presents an eclectic
selection of theatrical productions all year long. Since its debut in
2009 (though the original text notes 2001, updated records confirm the
current iteration), this intimate venue has garnered acclaim as Greater
Hartford's award-winning destination for performing arts, earning titles
like Best Community Theater multiple times. It stands out as the area's
most affordable and cozy professional theater, with free parking and a
focus on high-quality shows featuring local talent, including
sensory-friendly performances and family-oriented productions like
"Elephant and Piggie."
Westmoor Park, at 119 Flagg Road, can be
contacted at +1 860-561-8260 or via email at
Westmoorpark@westhartfordct.gov. Open daily from 7 AM to dusk, with the
farm operating from 9 AM to 4 PM, this 162-acre environmental education
center and demonstration farm is a self-funded facility run by West
Hartford Leisure Services. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits in
the discovery room showcasing live snakes, lizards, and other reptiles;
wander through vibrant gardens and a 1.2-mile loop trail with ponds and
woodlands; and interact with farm animals in a hands-on setting. Pets
are not permitted to preserve the natural habitat, and the park offers
programs in agriculture, horticulture, and nature for all ages.
The main gateway for air travel to West Hartford is Bradley International Airport (BDL), conveniently situated in the adjacent town of Windsor Locks, Connecticut. The airport is roughly 18 miles from West Hartford, with a typical drive taking 25-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. For those preferring public transit, options like the CTtransit line 30 bus are available, though the journey may take around 54 minutes.
West Hartford offers public transportation through CTtransit, which
operates local bus routes making frequent stops every few blocks to
connect neighborhoods with urban centers and surrounding communities.
Additional services include Dial-A-Ride for seniors and people with
disabilities, as well as connections to regional options via CTrides for
carpooling or vanpooling. However, due to the somewhat limited coverage
and frequency compared to larger cities, traveling by car is generally
the most practical and efficient method for getting around town.
Several car rental companies operate in West Hartford, providing
convenient options for visitors:
Enterprise Rent-A-Car, 160 Park
Road, ☏ +1 860 232-6665.
Avis Rent a Car, 55 Kane St, ☏ +1
860-727-6992.
Budget Car Rental, south side of Kane St (next to Mobil
Mart gas station), no phone listed in recent sources.
Dollar Car
Rental (affiliated with Thrifty), 1005 New Britain Ave, ☏ +1
860-953-1069.
Hertz Car Rental, 1005 New Britain Ave, ☏ +1
860-953-1069 (shared with Dollar).Other alternatives include
peer-to-peer services like Turo or app-based rentals via Uber Rent for
more flexible choices.
West Hartford features two key shopping hubs that cater to a wide
range of retail, dining, and entertainment needs.
Westfarms Mall
(1500 New Britain Ave), at the intersection of I-84 and Route 9, ☏ +1
860-561-3024. As Central Connecticut's premier shopping destination,
this mall boasts over 140 stores and restaurants, anchored by New
England's inaugural Nordstrom department store, along with JCPenney and
Macy's (including separate Macy's locations for general merchandise and
men's/home goods). In addition to high-end fashion and specialty shops,
it offers diverse dining spots such as Brio Italian Grille, California
Pizza Kitchen, P.F. Chang's, Texas de Brazil, Sally's Apizza, Gong Cha,
Jamba, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, and Nordstrom Marketplace Cafe. Seasonal
events, like photos with Santa (typically running from early November to
Christmas Eve) and toy drives, add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Blue
Back Square (65 Memorial Rd), ☏ +1 860 882-0678. This contemporary
open-air plaza represents one of West Hartford's newer lifestyle
developments, blending shopping, dining, and leisure in a walkable urban
setting. Retailers include Barnes & Noble, Crate & Barrel, Casper,
Lovesac, and T-Mobile, with Tempur-Pedic slated to open soon. The dining
scene features upscale spots like Fleming's Prime Steakhouse, The
Cheesecake Factory, World of Beer, Boqueria, Char-cu-te-rie, Coracora,
Kaliubon Ramen, and Playa Bowls, plus upcoming additions such as Chip
City. For entertainment, enjoy the Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas, which
offers in-theater waiter service for a premium movie experience, or head
to Muse Paintbar for interactive public painting sessions paired with
wine and flatbread pizza. The plaza's name pays homage to Noah Webster's
famous "Blue-Back Speller" textbook, reflecting the legacy of the
renowned dictionary author who once called West Hartford home.
West Hartford boasts an impressive array of dining options, catering
to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
The Elbow Room, located at
986 Farmington Avenue, evokes the cozy vibe of a neighborhood café while
offering an elevated American menu with fresh ingredients and over 35
rotating draft beers. It's particularly renowned for its award-winning
rooftop patio, which has won West Hartford's Reader's Choice for best
outdoor dining for 11 consecutive years, making it a go-to spot for al
fresco meals during warmer months. Reviews highlight favorites like the
pulled pork mac-n-cheese and Reuben sandwich, though some note
occasional slow service during peak times; it holds a 3.0/5 rating on
TripAdvisor from 157 reviews.
Harry's Pizza, at 1003 Farmington
Avenue (phone: +1 860-321-7166), is a beloved family-owned establishment
specializing in thin-crust Neapolitan-style pizzas made with fresh,
high-quality ingredients. It has earned multiple accolades, including
Best of Hartford Magazine awards and Zagat's Award of Distinction, and
is often praised for its hand-stretched dough and seasonal specials like
the white pie with shrimp or clams. While some recent reviews mention
slight changes under new ownership, it maintains strong ratings, such as
4.2/5 on TripAdvisor from 107 reviews and 4.0/5 on Yelp from 246
reviews, with patrons raving about the crispy crust and flavorful
toppings.
Max's Oyster Bar, situated at 964 Farmington Avenue,
delivers contemporary twists on traditional American seafood dishes in a
lively, upscale setting. Highlights include the raw bar with bi-coastal
oysters, fried whole-belly clams, and signature paella, complemented by
an extensive wine list. It has garnered numerous honors, such as
multiple "Best Seafood Restaurant" Reader's Choice Awards and a Zagat
"extraordinary" rating of 26, with high praise for fresh lobster rolls
and scallops. Guest feedback is overwhelmingly positive, earning 4.3/5
on TripAdvisor from 573 reviews and 4.8/5 on OpenTable from 447 diners,
though it can get noisy during weekends.
Pond House Cafe, nestled at
1555 Asylum Avenue within the scenic grounds of Elizabeth Park,
specializes in innovative dishes emphasizing fresh, organic, and
seasonal ingredients with creative flair, such as short ribs over
celeriac puree or nachos with layered spices. The picturesque location,
surrounded by rose gardens and a pond, makes it ideal for outdoor dining
or events, with options like a gazebo and patio. It receives solid
acclaim for its ambiance and food, scoring 4.1/5 on TripAdvisor from 269
reviews and strong marks on OpenTable from over 2,700 diners, often
described as a "hidden gem" with attentive service for dietary needs.
Quaker Diner, found at 319 Park Road (phone: +1 860-232-5523), is a
classic, no-frills breakfast haven built in 1931, serving generous
portions of comfort food like giant pancakes, omelets, and steak and
eggs in a nostalgic 1950s-style setting. It's a local staple for
affordable meals, with an extensive menu and fast-paced vibe, though
reviews note variable service. It earns 3.5/5 on TripAdvisor from
limited reviews and 4.0/5 on Yelp from 160 patrons, appreciated for its
hearty, budget-friendly options and divey charm.
Tapas Restaurant,
previously at 1150 New Britain Avenue, offered a relaxed atmosphere with
Mediterranean fare blending Greek, Israeli, Spanish, French, and Middle
Eastern influences, including standout gyros and vegetarian-friendly
choices like chicken mykanos. It was frequently lauded as one of central
Connecticut's top Greek spots, with a 4.0/5 on Yelp from 106 reviews
highlighting fresh ingredients and cozy seating. However, note that this
location appears to have closed permanently as of recent checks.
Effie's Place, at 91 Park Road (phone: +1 860-233-9653), is a welcoming
family-run diner serving homemade soups, sizable salads, burgers, and
dinners alongside all-day breakfast favorites like omelets and French
toast, plus delectable desserts. It emphasizes comfort food with
Greek-American touches, earning praise for its friendly staff and value,
with ratings like 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor from 112 reviews and 4.0/5 on
Yelp from 256 visitors.
After exploring the area, unwind at one of West Hartford's lively
spots for a refreshing beverage.
Barcelona Restaurant and Wine Bar,
at 971 Farmington Avenue (phone: +1 860-218-2100), is an acclaimed
Spanish-inspired venue known for its vibrant tapas and one of the
largest Spanish wine programs in the U.S., featuring award-winning
selections from Spain and South America. The ever-evolving menu pairs
well with cocktails or flights, in a bustling atmosphere perfect for
socializing. It consistently ranks high, with 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor from
numerous reviews and 4.5/5 on Yelp from 822 patrons, often called a
"must-visit" for its clean flavors and seasonal small plates.
Corner
Pug, formerly at 1046 New Britain Avenue, captured the essence of a
traditional English pub with a playful pug theme, serving hearty bites
like Mac-N-Cheese and burgers alongside a selection of beers. It was
favored for its laid-back vibe and unique decor, earning 4.0/5 on
TripAdvisor from 191 reviews and positive feedback on Yelp from 310
users for its comfort food. Unfortunately, it closed in August 2024
after many years as a neighborhood staple.
B Restaurants, at 138 Park
Road (phone: +1 860-231-1199), appears to refer to Restaurant Bricco, a
top-rated spot in the area offering Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy
setting. It's frequently highlighted in local guides for its excellence,
with strong reviews across platforms like TripAdvisor and Yelp, often
praised for its ambiance and menu variety.
For a peaceful overnight stay, consider the West Hartford Inn, which provides a serene and comfortable retreat. Conveniently located near the trendy downtown area, including Blue Back Square, it's just steps from attractions like the Noah Webster House, Old State House, and Wadsworth Atheneum—the nation's oldest museum. Guests enjoy complimentary perks such as enclosed parking and a continental breakfast with hot beverages, juices, and pastries. Recent upgrades include firm mattresses, modern furniture, and flat-screen TVs, plus a fitness room for workouts. Reviews are mixed, with some appreciating the cleanliness and helpful staff (3.0/5 on TripAdvisor from various reviews), while others note it feels dated; it's pet-friendly and affordable, ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
Early History and Settlement
The area now known as West Hartford,
Connecticut, was originally the ancestral homeland of the Sicaog people,
part of the Algonquian confederation, who used the region along the
Connecticut River for fishing, hunting, and as winter camps due to its
protection from harsh weather. Archaeological evidence suggests Native
American presence, but by the 17th century, European expansion displaced
them. In 1636, Reverend Thomas Hooker and his followers from Cambridge,
Massachusetts, founded Hartford and the Connecticut Colony, seeking more
land as the colony grew. By 1672, the Proprietors of Hartford ordered a
"Division to the West," dividing the land into 72 Long Lots stretching
from present-day Quaker Lane to Mountain Road, with boundaries extending
north to Bloomfield and south to what is now New Britain Avenue (later
expanded in 1830 to include parts of Farmington).
The first European
settlers arrived in 1679, primarily of English descent, establishing
what was initially called the "West Division" of Hartford. Stephen
Hosmer, son of one of Hooker's original Hartford settlers, became the
first homesteader, building a sawmill on a 300-acre property north of
the modern Center in 1679. This marked the area's first industry, with
remnants like the mill pond and dam still visible today on North Main
Street. The property stayed in the Hosmer family for nearly a century.
By the early 18th century, the community had grown into an agricultural
area, with the First Congregational Meeting House built around 1712 at
the southeast corner of Main Street and Farmington Avenue, serving as
the religious, political, and social hub—earning the area the enduring
name "The Center." The Old Center Cemetery, purchased in 1716, contains
graves of early prominent residents.
Slavery was introduced from the
outset, as settlers brought enslaved people with them. Census data and
records from the Hartford Courant indicate that prosperous households
relied on enslaved laborers for fieldwork and domestic help. For
instance, the Sarah Whitman Hooker House on New Britain Avenue housed
enslaved individuals. One notable enslaved person, Bristow, purchased
his freedom from Thomas Hart Hooker in 1775 just before Hooker joined
the Revolutionary War, where he died. Bristow continued living with the
family, became an agricultural expert, and upon his death, left property
to Hooker's children; he is the only known African American buried in
the Old Center Burial Yard, and Bristow Middle School honors his name.
Black residents made up about 5% of the population in the 18th century,
declining to around 0.5% by the early 20th century. Connecticut's
Gradual Emancipation Act of 1783 reduced the number of enslaved people,
but slavery was not fully abolished until 1848.
By the time of the
American Revolution, the wilderness had been transformed into farmland
with over 1,000 residents and 3,000 sheep. Sites like the Revolutionary
War campsite north of Albany Avenue and west of Mountain Road, and the
Burgone Elms Site (where elm saplings were planted in 1777 to celebrate
the capture of British General John Burgoyne at Saratoga), highlight the
area's role in the conflict. Early homes, such as the Daniel Hosmer
House (1774), Whitman House (c.1764-1807), and Moses Brace-Uriah Cadwell
House (c.1766), reflect colonial architecture and are preserved today.
Industrial Growth and Path to Independence
The late 18th and
early 19th centuries saw the rise of industry, leveraging local
resources like clay deposits for pottery and brickworks. Ebenezer Faxon
established a pottery in the Elmwood section in 1770, followed by Seth
Goodwin in 1798, whose family business employed up to 75 people
producing utilitarian items, terra cotta, and fine china until it burned
in 1908. Grist mills, operated by families like the Morgans and Goodwins
in the 1700s and 1800s, were key, with sites along Trout Brook.
Tanneries, blacksmith shops, and mills dotted the landscape, as noted in
historical overviews of the town's early farming and industrial base.
Bishop’s Corner emerged after the Talcott Mountain Turnpike opened in
1797-1798, hosting a blacksmith shop, taverns (including Goodman’s, the
first post office in 1820), and Joseph Bishop’s tobacco warehouse.
By
the early 19th century, renamed "the Society of West Hartford" in 1806
by the General Assembly, residents sought independence from Hartford.
Petitions in 1792 and 1797 failed, but in 1854, during the Assembly's
session in New Haven, a petition signed by 153 residents—citing a
population over 1,200, a Grand List exceeding $20,000, and
inconveniences like distant business and voting in Hartford—was approved
on May 3, despite opposition from about 100 residents who feared higher
taxes and an enlarged legislature. By 1860, the population was around
1,200, with about 300 eligible voters. The first Town Meeting in June
1854 elected 31 officials, including selectmen, constables, and
haywards, reflecting the agricultural focus; over 10% of voters held
office, with bipartisan representation from pro- and anti-independence
factions. Early meetings addressed taxes (5-7% of assessed value),
roads, schools (eight one-room districts), poor relief, and Civil War
bounties ($30 per enlistee and $5 monthly to families starting in 1861).
19th-Century Expansion and Streetcar Suburb Era
Post-independence, industry boomed. In 1879, Edwin Arnold founded the
Trout Brook Ice & Feed Company, harvesting and shipping ice to New York
City. The New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad through Elmwood in the
late 19th century spurred companies like Whitlock Coil Pipe (1891),
Royal Typewriter, and Pratt & Whitney (which employed over 7,000 during
WWII before closing in 1991). The Charter Oak Park Race Track and Fair
Grounds, opened in 1874, became nationally famous for horse racing,
alongside the Connecticut State Fair and Luna Amusement Park.
Transportation innovations transformed West Hartford into a streetcar
suburb. Turnpikes in the late 18th century supported taverns and shops,
while horse-drawn omnibuses ran from 1845. Electric trolleys from 1889
enabled professionals to commute to Hartford, leading to mansions on
Prospect Avenue's ridge, featuring Late 19th and 20th Century Revivals
architecture. Notable is the Connecticut Governor's Residence (1908), on
the National Register. Elizabeth Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted
in 1896, was bequeathed to Hartford. Subdivisions like Buena Vista
(1895), Elmhurst (1901), and Sunset Farm (1917) followed, with the
Hartford Golf Club (1900) becoming part of a historic district. The
Metropolitan District Reservoir No. 1, opened in 1867, supplied water
regionally.
West Hartford is the birthplace of Noah Webster (1758),
lexicographer and author of the Blue-Back Speller; his c.1748 home on
South Main Street is a National Historic Landmark. The American School
for the Deaf, founded in 1817 in Hartford, moved to West Hartford in
1922 as the oldest such institution in the U.S.
20th-Century
Suburban Boom and Challenges
The automobile era accelerated growth:
population rose from 4,808 in 1910 to 24,941 in 1930, then to 62,382 by
1960 due to post-WWII urban exodus. Developments included West Hill
(1920s, on Cornelius Vanderbilt's former estate, now a National Historic
District with Colonial and Tudor Revival homes) and the
Boulevard-Raymond Road Historic District (1896, West Hartford's first
modern subdivision). Schools were built annually in the 1950s, and
avenues like Albany and Farmington became commuter routes.
However,
exclusionary practices emerged. In 1924, West Hartford became
Connecticut's first municipality to enact zoning, segregating
residential areas to maintain high property values and exclude
"undesirable groups," including blocking a Jewish grocery. Racial
covenants in five 1940s developments prohibited non-White occupancy
(except servants) until ruled unenforceable in 1948. Public housing like
Oakwood Acres (1943) was kept effectively "Whites-only" amid resistance
and razed in 1956. In the 1960s, Black residents faced racism, including
hate notes and real estate steering. These policies resulted in a 98%
White population mid-century, though today it's about 73% White.
Interstate 84, completed in 1969, bisected the town, isolating Elmwood
and shifting retail. Bishops Corner (1971) and Westfarms Mall (1974,
Connecticut's third-largest indoor mall with over 1.3 million square
feet) boosted commerce. A notable event was the 1983 robbery of a Wells
Fargo depot by the Boricua Popular Army ("Los Macheteros"), netting $7
million—the largest U.S. heist at the time.
Modern Era
Residential
growth continued into the late 1970s with colonial, ranch, and
split-level homes in northern and southwestern areas. Blue Back Square,
opened in 2007, revitalized the Center with mixed-use development:
220,000 square feet of retail, luxury residences, offices, a theater,
and parking, named after Webster's speller and turning the area into a
regional hub. Today, West Hartford blends residential and commercial
spaces, hosting institutions like the University of Hartford and St.
Joseph’s College, with a focus on preserving historic sites like the
Noah Webster House and Quaker Meeting House (c.1780). Efforts to address
past segregation include programs like Housing Opportunities of Hartford
in the 1960s. The town's history is commemorated through 39 marked sites
in a 1987 touring guide, emphasizing its evolution from a rural parish
to a vibrant suburb.
West Hartford, a suburb of Hartford, has a rich history that lends
itself to ghostly tales, many of which are dramatized through local
events and based on real historical accounts. One of the most prominent
ways these legends are shared is via the annual West Hartford Hauntings
tour, organized by the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical
Society. This lantern-lit theatrical cemetery tour takes place in
October at the Old North Cemetery (established around 1790) on North
Main Street. Participants are guided by a "deceased" narrator through
the graves, where actors portray past residents recounting their lives
and often tragic deaths. The storylines are researched from gravestones,
newspapers, death notices, and wills, blending history with spooky
theater.
Some specific legends and ghostly figures featured in
these tours include:
Sister Mary Joseph: A nurse from St. Mary's Home
for the Aged who acts as a ghostly guide, sharing tales of the departed.
Hattie Nichols: A woman whose entire family succumbed to Scarlet Fever,
highlighting the devastating epidemics of the past.
Patrick and Ellen
Broderick: Irish immigrants who escaped the potato famine only to face
peril from the gas lighting in their home, which could lead to
explosions or asphyxiation.
Antonio Alfano: A man killed in a
suspicious accident involving a milk truck—possibly murder disguised as
misfortune.
Mrs. Emily Webster Ellsworth: Afflicted with a severe
toothache, she seeks dental help in a time when medical care was
rudimentary and painful.
Unnamed man killed by a frozen dirt clump: A
bizarre death caused by an unusual accident, emphasizing the odd perils
of everyday life in historical West Hartford.
Another notable
legend is the "Haunted House on Mozart Street," set in the Frenchtown
section of West Hartford. According to a 1913 Hartford Courant article,
this abandoned or rundown house was the site of eerie occurrences. In
the 1920s (or earlier, per some accounts), schoolchildren walking home
heard strange, ghostly sounds emanating from the property, sparking
rumors of hauntings. The legend suggests supernatural activity, but some
versions imply it was explained by a reclusive hermit living there,
turning the tale into a mix of folklore and rational explanation. This
story has been incorporated into the Hauntings tours, where a group of
students encounters the mysterious house.
The Noah Webster House
itself, a historic museum, hosts these events and is sometimes
associated with subtle hauntings due to its age and connection to early
American history, though no major legends are tied directly to it beyond
the tours.
West Hartford isn't overflowing with abandoned sites compared to
other parts of Connecticut, but a couple stand out for their decayed
state and eerie atmosphere, attracting urban explorers despite risks.
Batterson Park: This once-popular recreational area, established in the
early 20th century on land originally intended as a reservoir, spans
parts of West Hartford, Farmington, and New Britain, centered around
Batterson Park Pond. It offered boating, picnicking, and outdoor
activities but closed in 2015 amid budget cuts and disputes over
maintenance costs among the towns. Multiple redevelopment proposals have
fallen through, leaving it shuttered. Today, the park is overgrown and
silent, with a downed gate, rotting admission signs, boarded-up
buildings filled with old equipment, an abandoned basketball court,
derelict grills, and a boathouse still holding boats in decent shape.
Most striking are dozens of forgotten picnic tables arranged in rows,
now engulfed by vegetation, creating an uncanny, ghostly tableau in the
quiet woods. While no outright hauntings are reported, the eerie
stillness evokes a sense of forgotten lives and sudden abandonment.
Former UConn West Hartford Campus: Located on Asylum Avenue, this site
began as a UConn extension center in 1939 and expanded in 1946 to
accommodate World War II veterans. It served as a branch campus until
operations moved to downtown Hartford around 2017, leaving the property
vacant. The site has seen failed redevelopment attempts, ownership
changes, and environmental issues like contaminants and asbestos. As of
early 2025, plans for a mixed-use development (including retail and
housing) were approved, but until then, it remains blighted. The
buildings are graffitied, with broken windows, and considered an urbex
hotspot—explorers enter via basement windows, though cameras and
asbestos risks deter many. No legends or hauntings are associated, but
its isolated, decaying state adds to the creepy vibe of institutional
abandonment.