History of Waterford, Connecticut, USA

Waterford is a maritime township, situated on Long Island sound, 4 miles from the city of New-London, and 37 from Hartford; bounded on the north by Montville, on the east by New-London and the Thames, on the south by Long Island sound, and on the west by Lyme. Its average length is 7 miles, and its average breadth 5 miles, comprising an area of 35 square miles.

The surface is uneven, being diversified with hill and dale; the soil is a gravelly loam...

WATERFORD was formerly included within the limits of New London. It was incorpo ed as a distinct town in 1801. It is bounded N. by Montville, W. by byrne, E. by New London and the Thames, on the S. by Long island sound. Its average length is 7 miles, and its average breadth about live miles. Its surface is uneven and the soil a gravelly loam, better adapted to grazing than grain, of which there is little cultivated, excepting Indian corn. There ate two woolen factories in the town.

There are three houses for public worship in this town, all of which are for the Baptist denomination; one of which is for the Seventh day Baptists so called, from their observing Saturday, the Jewish sabbath, instead of the first day.

The following is from Backus' history of the Baptists, vol. 1, published in Boston in 1777.

"A new sect came out from among the Baptists about this time, who have caused not a little trouble to themselves and others, of whom 1 have collected the following brief...

Waterford, Connecticut
New London county. This town was taken from New London, in 1801. It is washed on the east side by the river Thames; and on the south by Long Island Sound, from which a bay or inlet extends, between Millstone and Black Points, quite into the centre of the town, affording a harbor for small vessels. This is a resort for fishermen on the Sound, and many species of the finny tribe are taken captive.

There are a number of ponds in the town, three considerable mill streams, and two woolen factories. The surface of the town is rocky and uneven, with a gravelly loam, productive of corn, vegetables, fruits, and feed for cattle. In 1837 it contained 2,582 sheep.

Waterford lies 37 miles S.E. from Hartford and 4 W. from New London. Population, 1830, 2,463.

Waterford, a post-village in New London co., Connecticut, near the const, and on the New Haven and New London railroad, 44 miles E. by N. from New Haven. Population of the township, 2259.

Waterford, a post-village of New London co., Conn. in Waterford township (town), on Long Island Sound and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 3 miles SW. of New London. It has granite-industries. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2904; of the village, about 300.

Harkness Memorial State Park:

Explore the beautiful gardens and grounds of this waterfront estate.
Picnic by the Mansion or take a leisurely stroll through the expansive lawns.
Enjoy the scenic views of Long Island Sound.

Ocean Beach Park:

Spend a day at the beach enjoying the sun, sand, and waves.
Take a walk on the boardwalk and try the classic boardwalk treats.
Ocean Beach Park also hosts events and concerts during the summer.

Eugene O'Neill Theater Center:

If you're a fan of theater, check out the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center.
It's a prestigious institution that has nurtured many plays and musicals.

Waterford Beach Park:

Another great spot for beach lovers, with a more low-key atmosphere.
Ideal for a relaxing day with family or friends.

Jordan Village:

Wander through this historic village known for its charming shops and boutiques.
Discover unique items, antiques, and local crafts.

New London Ledge Light:

Take a boat tour to see the iconic...