Overview

Founded in 1646 by John Winthrop, Jr., New London sits at the junction of the Thames River and Long Island Sound. Such a location offers strategic access to both the river and the ocean, and in past days, the town's status as a deep-water port made it a prominent shipping, trading, and whaling center. In fact, these industries helped build the fortunes of New London, as evidenced by many of its impressive homes and civic structures. Although the town was burned by the British (under the leadership of Benedict Arnold) in 1781, it recovered nicely and has been a solid maritime presence on Connecticut's southeastern coast for centuries. These days, the city of 25,000 is sleepier than in those volatile times but remains an inviting place to live and visit. Its downtown district still boasts fascinating architecture and an historic ambience, and the new Waterfront Park capitalizes on a lovely coastal location, drawing folks with panoramic views and ever-changing beauty. Along with Colonial charm, New London is also recognized as the home of dramatist Eugene O'Neill, and Monte Cristo Cottage, where he lived as a young man, shelters remembrances of his life. In recent years, the town's economy has been reinvigorated, thanks to the arrival of Pfizer's global research and development headquarters. In fact, pharmaceuticals now join the manufacture of turbines, steel, and electronics as some of New London's main industries. Unyielding, however, are ties to the sea, and pleasure ships ply regional waters, along with a healthy ferry system. Plus, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy carries on a long-lived tradition of service and lifesaving. History, culture, natural beauty � they all coalesce in New London, which now, as always, is tinged with a hint of salt and a strong measure of providence.

Recent User Activity in New London