“Ridgefield is a favorite destination for visitors.” That is a phrase you hear often. Ridgefield, Connecticut is a place steeped in history. It offers a unique blend of small-town charm and cultural attractions.
Founded over 300 years ago, Ridgefield has a population of 25,000. This town boasts a unique historic Main Street. Ridgefield is rated as one of the safest towns in Connecticut.
In 1708, 24 families from Long Island Sound settlements bought uplands from the Ramapoo Indians. These settlers sought to establish a community. They aimed to build a Congregational church and farm the land. This vision shaped Ridgefield’s early years. The original 24 proprietors received home lots. These lots were drawn by lottery. A 25th lot was reserved for the minister.
The lots lined Main Street around a common area. A meeting house was built there. Neighbors formed a close-knit community. They lived under the guidance of minister Thomas Hauley. He also served as school master and town clerk. Each family was self-sufficient. They dwelt in small homes. They farmed outlying fields. They husbanded animals on their lots.
One of Ridgefield’s earliest entrepreneurs was Timothy Keeler. In 1772, he transformed his home into a tavern. During the Battle of Ridgefield, in 1777, the British fired upon it. Today, it stands as the Keeler Tavern Museum and History Center. After the Revolutionary War, Keeler imported goods from New York. He resold these items in his tavern. In 1783, Lt. Joshua King established the King and Dole store. It was on the site of what is now the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum.
By 1822, Ridgefield had various artisans. These included hatters, tailors and silversmiths. The 19th century also saw the rise of industry. Carriage manufacturing led the way. By 1830, Resseguie and Olmstead’s carriage manufactory became a local landmark. It was located on the present site of the Congregational Church. Other manufacturers on south Main Street produced candlesticks and furniture. As these businesses thrived, owners enlarged their homes. By 1850, Main Street’s appearance had transformed.
Ridgefield lacked significant water power. It was also off the main travel routes. It could not compete in the Industrial Revolution. The town lost population as mills and shops closed. However, the arrival of prominent New Yorkers revitalized Ridgefield. They sought a quaint resort with healthy air. By 1870, a new railroad spur brought summer visitors. They stayed at the Bailey Inn, Three Pines Boarding House and Keeler Tavern. This fashionable crowd built mansion-sized vacation retreats. These retreats were on south Main Street and elsewhere in town.
By 1890, the Common and the old Congregational Church were gone. However, little else had changed since earlier in the century. In 1966, the area became a state and local Historic District. In 1984, it gained recognition as a National Historic District. The Ridgefield Historic District Commission administers it.
Ridgefield has welcomed such personalities as Benedict Arnold. He fought here for the Patriots in the Battle of Ridgefield. Frederick Remington sculpted here. J. Alden Weir painted here. Eugene O’Neill wrote here.
Today, Ridgefield offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. They can also visit the Weir Farm National Historic Site or the Keeler Tavern Museum. The Ridgefield Playhouse hosts live shows. The Prospector Theater offers first-release movies. Unique boutiques and diverse restaurants line Main Street. Outdoor activities include golf, walking trails and country roads for biking.
With its picturesque setting and rich history, Ridgefield remains a memorable destination. The historic Lounsbury House serves as a venue for events. Ridgefield offers a special experience for all who visit.