Town of Weston, Connecticut
Home MenuWelcome to Weston
Our very own Weston Historical Society teaches us about Weston's past and present:
About Weston - Past
Since colonial times the Town of Weston has taken its character from the many generations that have cherished local democracy, broad-based citizen involvement, and a strong sense of community. In the tradition of home rule, Westonites call Town Meetings in the belief that every eligible voter is a legislator.
Weston was an Aspetuck hunting ground until “outlivers” from the town of Fairfield began settling here in the early eighteenth century. Norfield Parish was created in 1757 and the Connecticut General Assembly formally recognized Weston as a separate, incorporated town thirty years later.
Early Weston was agricultural but soon the use of abundant water power led to the growth of industry. By 1830 Weston was a thriving town of 3,000 people and home to foundries, a grist mill, ax manufacturing, a furniture plant, and four churches. The population began to decline rapidly by the 1850’s, however, due to the opening of the richer agricultural lands in Ohio, the development of steam-powered industry along the coast, and the rise of the industrial towns along the Naugatuck River.
The revival of the Town began early in the 20th century with the arrival of artists, musicians, theater people, writers, and summer residents from New York City, a vanguard of the waves of commuters who first arrived by automobile in the 1930’s. This mixture remains and, together with its excellent schools and many conservation-protected lands, continues to give Weston its special character.
— from the Weston Town Charter
About Weston – Present
Founded in October 1787, Weston is a residential community in Southwestern Connecticut (about 45 miles from New York City) with a population of approximately 10,150 residents. Weston features two acre property zoning, minimal commercial development, an award-winning and high-performing educational system, a vibrant arts community, and an abundance of natural open spaces.
Weston’s unique rural, yet sophisticated, environment boasts an absence of heavily trafficked commercial roads. Weston’s Town Center is the primary commercial destination and meet-up spot. There one can find the local food market, a bank, dry cleaners, real estate office, post office, a spirits shop, restaurant, and gas and service station. Weston's four-school school campus, Town Hall, Library, and municipal offices are also conveniently located nearby. Weston also has a long tradition of community volunteerism.