The Community
The first settlers of New Haven purchased land from the Mattabesech Indians in 1638, which included the territory of Totoket. The village of Totoket eventually evolved into the Town of Branford, which is believed to be named after the town of Brentford in England. The village and town’s shoreline frontage on Long Island Sound enabled many settlers to earn their livelihood by means of shipbuilding and seafaring. In the 1600's, a trading post was established by the Dutch, close to the mouth of the Branford River; hence, the name Dutch Wharf which coincidentally is directly next door to Branford’s new luxury condominiums, Anchor Reef.
While seafaring and ship building were major occupations for the settlers, farming was the mainstay of Branford life for over 200 years. As an accessible port, ships traded lumber, livestock, produce and brooms for molasses and rum from the West Indies.
In 1655, the first iron furnace was assembled and operated in Branford, and salt produced in Branford was used to preserve meat for the Revolutionary Army.
In the late 1600's a group of area ministers brought together a large collection of books while founding the Collegiate School, which would become Yale College in 1701.
Stony Creek was the first shoreline community settled in the late 18th century, followed by Indian Neck. Pine Orchard and Stony Creek were not permanently settled until the mid 1800's. The railroad, now directly across the street from Anchor Reef, in 1852, brought new businesses into Branford, including Branford Lockworks, Malleable Iron Fittings Company, and the Atlantic Wire Company.
Today, Branford’s economic strength is reflected in the diversity of companies found here. This includes an established manufacturing presence, a growing biotech community, medical research firms and numerous small, independent, retail and service businesses.
Education
Three elementary, one middle, and one high school serve as Branford’s educational institutions. The schools offer a quality education and numerous activities for local youth. Pre-kindergarten and adult education options are available to Branford residents.
Recreation
With 20 miles of coastline on Long Island Sound and over 3,500 acres of open and/or undeveloped space, Branford is home to a great diversity of scenery and habitats. There are endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from hiking to cycling. The Branford River and it’s diverse scenery and wildlife can be enjoyed on land, or while boating or kayaking.
Branford’s shoreline proximity offers various opportunities to access all of mother nature’s amenities; from town beaches to it’s protected harbors and coastal inlets. The Thimble Islands are located off Branford’s coastline which can be toured seasonally from Branford’s town dock.
Transportation
Situated just East of New Haven, Branford is on the Shoreline East commuter Rail System with convenient service to New Haven and connections to New York and Boston. The town’s location also offers direct access to Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1.
For additional information please visit the Town’s website at www.Branford-ct.gov.
