History of Ridgefield, Connecticut, USA

1708 - (Ridgefield, CT) - Founded in 1708 by colonists from Norwalk and Milford, and then incorporated a year later, the town was mainly a farming community until wealthy New Yorkers discovered it and built summer cottages within its borders.

connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ ridgefield/

1819 - Ridgefield
Ridgefield is an elevated post township, situated in the western setion of the County and State, bordering upon the State of New-York, 10 miles southwest of Danbury, 70 miles southwest of Hartford, and 55 northeast of the city of New-York; bounded on the north by New-Fairfield, on the east by Danbury and Reading, on the south by Wilton, and on the west by the State of New-York. The township is of an oblong figure, being about 13 miles in length, and not more than 3 miles in breadth upon an average estimation, and comprises an area of about 37 square miles...
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island: Written with Care and Impartiality, from Original and Authentic Materials : Consisting of Two Parts ... with an Accurate and Improved Map of Each State Authors John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles Publisher W.S. Marsh, 1819

1839 - Ridgefield
Ridgefield, Connecticut
Fairfield county. Ridgefield, or, as the Indians called it, Caudatowa, a word signifying high land, is bounded W. by New Salem, N.Y., and lies 31 miles W. by N. from New Haven, and 9 S. by W. from Danbury. This township is very elevated, and commands extensive views of Long Island Sound and of the surrounding country. The soil is a strong gravelly loam, and productive of grass and grain. It is watered by Saugatuck and Norwalk rivers, and by a branch of the Croton. It comprises a very handsome village, in which are manufactures of carriages, cabinet furniture, &c. Limestone is abundant. Population, 1830, 2,323. Incorporated, 1709.

The celebrated hermetess, Sarah Bishop, lived on the western border of Ridgefield. She lived on Long Island at the time of the Revolutionary war. Her father's house was burnt by the British, and she was cruelly treated by a British officer. She then left society and wandered among the mountains near this part of the state: she... Read MORE...

1854 - Ridgefield
Ridgefield, a post-village of Fairfield Co., Connecticut, about 35 miles W. of New Haven, contains several churches, an academy, and a number of manufactories. Population of the township, 2237.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

1895 - Ridgefield
Ridgefield, rij'feeld, a post-village in Ridgefield town ship, Fairfield co., Conn., on the Danbury & Norwalk Rail road, 11 miles S.W. of Bethel, and 15 miles N. of Norwalk. It has several churches, a savings-bank, and manufactures of spring beds, carriages, and leather. Pop. of the town ship in 1890, 2235.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1895 - BUSINESS DISTRICT IN FLAMES
Disastrous Fire Prevails in the Town of Ridgefield, Conn. - Buildings in Rutherford Burning.

RIDGEFIELD, Conn., Dec 8. - The business district of this town is threatened with destruction by fire. The fire originated to-night in the big wooden block owned by G. S. Gage, situated on Main Street. The building was surrounded on all sides by other wooden structures and the flames found plenty of material upon which to feed.

Bediend & Mead were soon burned out and the Western Union office was also ruined. By 11 o'clock the flames had consumed the Gage Block and fifteen minutes later the fire attacked the Town Hall on the opposite side of Bailey Avenue. Adjacent to the Gage Block was a small frame building in which was situated the Western Union Telegraph office. Then came the grocery of Barhite & Valden and a few residences. These buildings were burned before 11 o'clock.

On Bailey Avenue, to the west and rear of the Gage Block, were a plumbing shop and a row of wooden buildings... Read MORE...

1906
Ridgefield, a banking post-village in Ridgefield township (town), Fairfield co., Conn., on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 15 miles N. of Norwalk. It is in a dairying region and makes large shipments of milk. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2626.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

2023 - Whether you're into outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just want to explore the local scene, Ridgefield has something for everyone. Here's a list to get you started:
Keeler Tavern Museum: Immerse yourself in Ridgefield's history by visiting this museum. The Keeler Tavern dates back to the 18th century and offers guided tours to showcase its historical significance.

Ridgefield Playhouse: If you're into performing arts, check out the events at Ridgefield Playhouse. From concerts to live theater, this venue hosts a variety of entertaining performances.

Weir Farm National Historic Site: Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Weir Farm, the former home of American impressionist painter J. Alden Weir. The site is a National Historic Site and offers tours of the artist's studio and beautiful gardens.

Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra: Check the schedule for the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra for a delightful evening of classical music. The orchestra often performs at the Anne S. Richardson Auditorium.

Ballard Park: Enjoy some outdoor time at Ballard Park, a picturesque location for picnics, walking, or just relaxing. The park has walking... Read MORE...