Towns of Interest to Visitors & Residence of Connecticut
Consider a Move to the Family-friendly Town of Bethel, Connecticut
Situated in Fairfield County in the Bridgeport-Stamford metropolitan area is the lovely town of Bethel, Connecticut. Bethel is a small, quaint New England town with a population of a little more than 18,000. It is located approximately 50 miles southwest of Hartford and about 60 miles northeast of New York City.
Cities near Bethel include Newtown, Danbury, Brookfield, and Redding. Bethel has two fire departments, a police force, and an educational park with five schools serving grades kindergarten through high school. There's easy access to the town by Interstate 84 and several state roads.
Bethel CT was first settled by European settlers around 1700. The First Ecclesiastical Society of Bethel was formed in 1759. In 1855, the town of Bethel was established as the 154th town in Connecticut. Bethel thrived on industries such as comb-making, shoe-making, and hat manufacture through the 1960s. One of the founders of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, P.T. Barnum, was born in Bethel and lived there until the age of 24.
Those considering Bethel relocation will find the town to be friendly and inviting. It caters to those who love the outdoors and the small-town atmosphere. The historic downtown area is charming with shops, cafes, delis, a coffee shop, a library, restaurants, and more. Bethel CT also offers a local cinema, hiking and cycling trails, and easy access to attractions in nearby towns.
Nearby museums include the Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art, the Danbury Museum and Historical Society, the Keeler Tavern Museum, the Danbury Railway Museum, and the Military Museum of Southern New England. Parks near Bethel are the Huntington State Park, the Putnam Memorial State Park, and the Seth Pierrepoint State Park Reserve. At the Huntington State Park, there are 878 acres of enjoyment with activities such as fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and canoeing.
Popular nearby historical sites include the Weir Farm National Historic Site and the John Jay Homestead Historic Site (NY).
Bethel homes range from small-to-medium sized homes to farm houses and beautiful mansions. There are Bethel realtors that can help find properties in the Bethel area as well as Brookfield real estate or real estate in other surrounding areas. Those considering Bethel relocation can contact a Mike Conkey, a Bethel resident, real estate agent, and REALTOR® to become acquainted with the area, available homes, and pricing.
If you like to find out more about homes for sale in Bethel and the neighboring towns, be sure to sign up for property searches at: http://mikeconkey.mlspulse.com
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey
Come Explore the Lovely, Historic Town of Brookfield, Connecticut
Brookfield, Connecticut is beautifully situated between two of the biggest lakes in the state and is in the northern part of Fairfield County. The lakes are Candlewood Lake (south) and Lake Lillinonah (north). Brookfield is approximately a 75-minute drive from Manhattan, New York and is a favorite getaway for many city residents. There are many homes along the lakes that are used for seasonal vacation homes only.
In Brookfield history, settlers began to arrive in the area during the early 1700s. Boundaries were established in 1752, and the area became the Parish of Newbury. In 1788, Newbury became the Town of Brookfield. A post office was built in 1801, and a second Town Hall in 1876. The Town Hall building is the Brookfield Museum and Historical Society today.
In 1888, Brookfield celebrated its 100th birthday. Candlewood Lake, a man-made lake, was built in 1926. Lake Lillinonah was built in 1955. In 1983, the current Town Hall, Police Station, and Community Center were constructed.
Brookfield CT was once a farming town with most families owning a farm or, at least, their own vegetable garden. Residents owned dairy farms, sheep farms, and chicken farms mainly. Primary industry in Brookfield during the 1800s included saw mills, shear shops, comb and button factories, grist mills, harness shops, and iron works.
Today, Brookfield CT has a population of about 15,600 and offers many churches, four public schools, a private school, numerous preserved historic structures, and more for those who are thinking of Brookfield relocation.
Local residents in Brookfield CT enjoy family-friendly activities hosted by the city each year. For instance, during spring and summer there are workshops and egg hunts for Easter, Mother's and Father's Day activities, a "Big Wheel 500" bicycle race for children ages three to six, a "Drive In Movie Series," Magic Workshops, and more. There's also a Summerfest that's held at the Town Park Beach and features games, food, contests, and more. Winter activities include ice skating, holiday events, and more.
Some local parks where outdoor recreation can be enjoyed include Town Park, Williams Park, Lillinonah Woods, Arthur Harris Linear Park, Cadigan Park, and Domain Pond. These outdoor retreats offer local residents a chance to relax while enjoying hiking trails, picnics, ponds and lakes, sports, and other nature-centered recreation. During fall, the foliage is gorgeous in Brookfield, especially around the area lakes.
Brookfield real estate is available through our RE/MAX The Home Center local office in Brookfield and through our corporate office on 27 Governor Street in Ridgefield. Brookfield homes come in many styles, shapes, and sizes including ranch, colonial, cottage, Cape Cod, A-frame, prairie, ranch, split level, traditional, and other styles to fit the family’s or individual’s needs. Those considering Brookfield relocation can explore the possibilities by contacting Mike Conkey, your local Brookfield real estate agent and REALTOR® for more details and to arrange a viewing of homes that best match your needs.
If you like to find out more about homes for sale in Brookfield and the surrounding towns, including Ridgefield, Redding, Georgetown and Wilton, be sure to sign up for property searches at: http://mikeconkey.mlspulse.com
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey
Enjoy a New England Paradise - New Milford, Connecticut
With its gorgeous landscapes and small-town atmosphere, it's no wonder so many people love to visit New Milford, Connecticut. Each season reveals a natural beauty that's pleasant to the eye in this peaceful little town. New Milford CT is a dream come true for any nature lover and offers a variety of home settings for those who are considering New Milford relocation.
New Milford is located at the western border of Connecticut in the Housatonic Valley of Litchfield County. It is bordered on the west by beautiful Candlewood Lake and the Town of Sherman and to the south by Danbury and Brookfield. Other nearby towns include Bridgewater, Washington, and Roxbury. The population of New Milford is around 28,000, and the total land area covered by the town is about 40,321 acres.
New Milford's history dates back to the early 1700s. In 1702, a deed was exchanged from 14 local Indians to the "Proprietors of New Milford." The price was 60 pounds in money and 20 pounds in goods. Until the year 1712, New Milford was simply called a "plantation." In 1712, it was granted "town" status, and construction began to build local highways. Schools, churches, and businesses erected, and in 1793, New Milford was divided into military divisions. The town today has transformed into a commercial and industrial town from its prior status of a farming and residential community.
Visitors and local residents alike enjoy local parks for outdoor recreation. The Town Green offers passive space with a bandstand for events, festivals, and fundraisers. For picnics and fishing, there's Carlson's Grove Park. Clatter Valley is where many go for cross-country skiing, tobogganing, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing. The active individual will love Young's Field, where there are tennis courts, a toddler's playground, a basketball court, and multi-athletic fields. Other parks include Canterbury Pond, Norstrand Trail, and Emmanual Williamson Park.
At the New Milford Historical Society and Museum, one can learn about the town's history and see antiques and memorabilia from the town's past. The downtown area offers shops, restaurants, scenic buildings and streets, and more for tourists and local residents.
For New Milford real estate, there is a wide range of homes and settings for those considering a move to the area. We can help you find homes on Candlewood Lake, in the historic downtown area, or among the picturesque hills and valleys. New Milford homes come in many styles including ranch, farmhouse, Cape Cod, A-frame, cottages, and mansions. As a professional real estate agent and REALTOR® I can help you explore all the possibilities for securing a home in this precious town.
If you like to find out more about homes for sale in New Milford and the surrounding towns, be sure to sign up for property searches at: http://mikeconkey.mlspulse.com
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey
Experience the Splendor and American Heritage of Ridgefield, Connecticut
Often described as "the little town that time forgot," Ridgefield, Connecticut unites colonial days with modern-day society. In many ways, it still resembles a colonial village, but with modern-day buildings often found in between the historical landmarks and sites. Ridgefield attracts people who want the best of both worlds. It flourishes in opportunity while offering residents a high quality of life.
Ridgefield is located in west-central Fairfield County in the Bridgeport-Stamford metropolitan area.
Ridgefield CT History
Ridgefield was founded in 1708 by an estimated 30 families that came to settle in the area from the Long Island Sound. The families bought the land from Ramapoo Indians. In the 1777 Battle of Ridgefield during the Revolutionary War, American Generals Arnold and Wooster made an attempt to hold back the British in Ridgefield. This was the only land battle held in the state of Connecticut during the war.
Even through the early-to-mid 1900s, Ridgefield retained much of its "colonial" atmosphere. Just in the past 30 years has the town begun to modernize somewhat, and has grown to a population of about 22,000 people. Some well-known people who have lived in Ridgefield include Frederic Remington (artist), Eugene O-Neill (playwright), Flannery O'Connor (writer), Maurice Sendak (author), Robert Vaughn (actor), and David Cassidy (singer/actor).
Fun and Activity in Ridgefield, Connecticut
Ridgefield offers a number of places and activities for visitors and residents. In September, the town hosts the Native American Festival. For those who love performing arts, there's the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra. Local parks include the Seth Low Pierrepont State Park Reserve and Richardson Park. Museums include the Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art and the Keeler Tavern.
Other sites for culture and history lovers include The Lounsbury House, Ballard Green, The Elms Inn, Ridgefield Theater Barn, the Ridgefield Playhouse, and the Cass Gilbert Fountain. Ridgefield also has a variety of local shops and businesses, restaurants, and cafes.
The Ridgefield Historical Society provides historical materials, exhibits, oral histories, local festivities, and more. Its headquarters is at the Scott House, which is 275 years old! The house itself is a treasure chest of Ridgefield history.
Ridgefield CT Real Estate
Ridgefield relocation is a great way to steal away to a historically-rich small town with a big heart. Ridgefield real estate is comprised of upscale homes in beautiful neighborhoods such as Stonehenge Estates. Ridgefield homes come in many styles including ranch, colonial, farm houses, A-frame, and contemporary.
For those moving from out of state, it's a good idea to view the homes on the market through a trusted REALTOR® organization such as RE/MAX The Home Center will help determine the best area for a move based on family income and personal housing needs.
For American heritage, beauty, and a high standard of living, Ridgefield is an excellent choice for relocation!
If you like to find out more about homes for sale in New Milford and the surrounding towns, be sure to sign up for property searches at: http://mikeconkey.mlspulse.com
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey
Southbury CT - Enjoy Life More Abundantly
Located in New Haven County, Southbury, CT is the definition of peaceful living. Nestled almost an equal distance from both Boston and New York City, Southbury CT is not the typical rural town most would imagine it to be. Instead, it should be considered the perfect long-term "getaway" with the convenience of the city's amenities well within reach. And, with its "consider the possibilities" attitude throughout the town, Southbury CT is sure to have something for everyone.
Purchased from the Paugussett [Pootatuck] Indians in 1659, Southbury CT is rich in culture, beauty, and history. From serene country sides, to beautifully maintained historic districts, to technology powerhouse headquarters, Southbury sets itself apart from most New England locations. With its unique mixture of forward thinking innovations and a charge to preserve the past, Southbury residents enjoy life more abundantly.
Residents of Southbury are invited to spend their days indulging in one of the many upscale day spas, out shopping on Main South Street or enjoying their favorite coffee concoction at Starbucks. In a place where beauty overflows, visitors and residents can enjoy music and artistic performances at one of the many centers dedicated to the arts. And all are invited to "dive in" through centers that help to develop the talents of both young and old participants.
Southbury residents of all ages are encouraged to participate in activities sponsored by the Southbury Parks and Recreation Department who cater to groups ranging from preschoolers to seniors. Toddlers can enjoy creative movement, arts, and craft-based activities; youths are encouraged to join in and play sports like soccer, basketball and lacrosse; while adults can take yoga, kickboxing and aerobics classes, get away on senior outings, and learn first-aid in classes that are tailor made.
For those looking for personal getaways, Southbury is a paradise for fishing, bird watching, bike riding, and hiking at one of the many marked trails and land preserved state parks. Events are often available at the city's various country clubs, through the Southbury Soccer Club, and with the city's Senior Center. Children and adults alike also have quick access to the Quassy Amusement Park located in nearby Middlebury where swimming and fun rides abound.
Southbury charm ranges from farms and mills to Anne Taylor and Gap shopping options, with lots of other possibilities in between. Residents love its charm, historians love its story and visitors love to feel "at home" in this unique town. With an eye on both the future and the past, it's easy to "consider the possibilities" of life in Southbury, CT.
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey
Wilton CT - The Great Life Guaranteed
Widely recognized for its championship lacrosse teams, historic restorations and lush, peaceful landscapes, Wilton, CT has been called one of the most affluent communities in the US today. However, there's more to this great city than the outside labels that have been attached, as Wilton, CT is a great place to visit, live and entertain.
Located approximately one hour from Manhattan, Wilton, CT provides residents with a suburban lifestyle, well within reach of the hustle and bustle of the city. Residents enjoy scenery that is filled with winding roads and quiet streams in a classic New England town atmosphere that has strong heritage and deep-rooted history.
Purchased in 1640 by Roger Ludlow, Wilton, CT established itself as a parish in 1726 with 40 resident families, and was granted a charter by the Connecticut General Assembly in 1802. Its early history includes a strong support of the anti-slavery movement and its harboring and protection of slaves on the Underground Railroad. More recent accomplishments have come through its recognition as having won more state lacrosse championships than any other town in Connecticut, and its resident population which includes A-rod (NY Yankees), Chance Brown (Hi and Lois cartoonist) and Christopher Plummer (actor).
Known for its quality of life and high standards of living, Wilton residents enjoy the many public and private facilities available to cater to their every need. With an abundance of tennis courts, parks and nature centers available throughout the town, residents are able to enjoy hiking, camping and horseback riding at their leisure. And those looking to stay indoors for recreation will find the preserved landmarks, art and antique exhibits and Wilton museums a perfect retreat.
Residents often enjoy the activities coordinated by the Wilton Parks and Recreation Department, along with the Wilton YMCA who provide a wide array of events. Residents are invited to learn basketball, ballet, floor hockey, swimming, theatre and a host of other activities yearly. In addition to the public services, three private clubs are also available offering tennis, golf and swimming. But life is not all fun and games in Wilton, with education at its forefront, high school graduates continue on to colleges and universities over 91% of the time; SAT scores are above the national average; and students are encouraged to learn foreign languages in as early as the 3rd grade.
With top public and private schools, actively involved residents, and a focus on the town's continued growth and prosperity, Wilton, CT is on the fast-track of long-term success.
Copyright 2007-2008 Mike Conkey