Newtown, known for its
artist community and rich history, was settled in 1708 on land purchased
from the Pootatuck Indians.
Embracing 60.38 square
miles amid the scenic foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Newtown's
sparsely populated rolling woodlands encompass Fairfield County's largest
township. It is bounded on the north and east by the Housatonic
River and the Shepaug River, both rivers flowing into the lovely Lake
Lillinonah. Newtown's distinguished history includes having been a
Revolutionary War campsite; a number of pre-Revolutionary residences still
exist within the township's boundaries. Gracious antique homes line
Main Street, and a 100-foot flagpole proudly rises at Main and Church Hill
Road. The Newtown Bee has reported area news since
1877. Despite the area's pastoral quietude, Newtown has easy access
to major population centers. This crowded township's richly
historic, expansive New England ambiance has been cherished and actively
maintained by civic-minded residents. Thoughtful town planning has
guided growth, maintaining as abundance of open spaces and protecting the
uncommon atmosphere or rural tranquility enjoyed by Newtown's 25,000
inhabitants. Newtown is governed by a Board of
Selectmen.
Some of the well-known spots in Newtown are Lake Zoar, Edmond
Town Hall, the Hawley School, and Cyrenius H. Booth Library, many of which
were created through the generosity of Mary Elizabeth Hawley. Miss
Hawley was one of Newtown's better-known and wealthy residents. She
is also responsible for the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, and the
restoration of the Village Cemetery.
Other famous residents
also contributed to the growth of Newtown. C.B. Taylor gave Taylor
Field Playground behind Hawley School, and Bertram Stroock contributed to
Dickenson Memorial Park.
Lake Lillinonah is a
popular site for boating, water-skiing, and
canoeing.
Residents and visitors
can also swim, play tennis, and picnic at Dickenson Park and Treadwell
Park.
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