Branford CT: Best Places To Live In Connecticut

Tucked into the coast of the Long Island Sound, Branford is a small quiet community perfect for suburban life. The easy commute to nearby commercial centers makes it easy and practical, and outdoor beauty is abundant.

Branford has a rich history. The area was originally known as "Totoket" that later became Branford. It was part of the land bought in 1638 from the Mattabesech Indians by the first white colonizers of New Haven for "eleven coats of trucking cloth and one coat of English cloth made in the English fashion".

The Dutch later in the 1600s set up a trading post at the mouth of the Branford River, and is the source of the name "Dutch Wharf" In the quaint historic district. The Long Island Sound provided many of the early colonists with a livelihood doing shipbuilding serving the emerging coastal trade. The first iron-smelting furnace in Connecticut was set up at Lake Saltonstall in 1655.

The Branford Green is widely considered one of the finest examples of colonial architecture in Connecticut with its town hall and three churches facing Main Street. Surrounding the historic town green are architecturally rich homes from the Greek revival, gothic and colonial periods.

The spectacular beaches around Branford are among the most stunning in Connecticut, stretching across twenty miles of scenic coastline. Providing an out of this world backdrop, the shoreline is ideal for many seaside homes.

The Scenic Route 146 is a 12-mile driving tour beginning in town and winds its way along the Long Island Sound into Guilford. Driving through this shoreline area you see 18th and 19th century homes, shops and town greens, views of the many inlets and places to stop and enjoy the local seafood. The drive is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.

Branford's Thimble Islands are the largest group of islands in Connecticut. Numbering over a hundred, they take their name from the "Thimbleberries" or black raspberries which once grew wild on the islands.

The beautiful landscape supports an assortment of outdoor and athletic activities. The yachting clubs and marinas host a wide range of boating and fishing events. Branford is also home to spectacular public and private beaches, as well as Foote Memorial Park.

Each June, the Branford Festival features music, crafts and food. Shoppers take pleasure in the diverse offerings of the local shops and major retail centers in nearby towns such as Clinton, New Haven, and Milford.

Branford's outstanding educational community includes an early learning and family resource center for preschoolers, kindergarteners and their families. Branford has three elementary schools, a middle school and high school. It also has an excellent adult education and summer enrichment programs.

The scenic natural beauty of the beaches with all the inlets and islands, the cultural events and heritage of the town green, along with the charm of the colonial homes and architecture makes Branford Connecticut the perfect place for your home and family.

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