Stamford’s Rich History
Stamford, Conn., was signed over to European settlers in July of 1640, and has been home to a mixed bag of historic landmarks, happenings and people ever since. Originally called Rippowam by the natives, the city has transformed itself in many ways not limited to its name. Signs of change in Stamford are visible; from new developments and renewal projects, to historic buildings still standing in the city, to a meticulous historical society determined to maintain the city’s old-world integrity and charm. Stamford has a rich history still available for you to see—you need only know where to look. Those of you traveling by foot may want to stroll Stamford’s South-End historic district, bordered by Penn Central railroad tracks, Stamford Canal, Woodland Cemetery, and Washington Boulevard. For information about other sites in Stamford, be sure to contact the city’s historic center (information listed below).
Stamford Historic Center
1508 High Ridge Road
(203) 329-1183
First stop on any tour of Stamford’s historic sites is the Stamford Historic Center, established in 1901, where you can treat yourself to some of the most knowledgeable historians in the area. Through September, you can also catch the organization’s current art exhibit, “The Lost Streets of Stamford”, which takes visitors on a visual tour of photographs documenting streets destroyed in Stamford’s urban downtown redevelopment plan, begun in 1952. Visit the center’s Web site for information on upcoming exhibits, volunteer opportunities, and more.
Sterling Farms
1349 Newfield Ave.
(203) 461-9090
Sterling Farms is an interesting example of urban renewal—and one of the best places in Stamford to sample delicious seafood. Once a 144-acre dairy farm servicing Stamford, the property now houses an 18-hole public golf facility.
[Originally posted at StamfordCTGuide.com]