After the Revolution, Danbury became known as a hat producer. By the late 19th century, the 50 or so hat factories within its city limits were manufacturing many of the world's hats.

Although hat production in Danbury was strong, the city eventually began to attract other types of industries. Danbury then began appealing to a large number of immigrants who established their own fraternal organizations, churches and private schools. Danbury's hatting industry gradually became a thing of the past, although to this day it is still widely known by its longstanding moniker: "Hat City."

In the 1970s and 1980s, the manufacturing sector was booming, mostly in the medical, electronic, publishing and defense-related industries. During the 1980s, however, manufacturing leveled off, and a number of plants either closed or relocated.

In recent years Danbury's downtown hub has been the focus of redevelopment. An NHL ice skating rink is in the process of construction, and recent cultural and aesthetic improvements to CityCenter and surrounding areas has given Danbury a new vitality.

Within Danbury's 44 square mile radius lies a wealth of cultural, recreational and educational opportunities. The city's strong economy is another plus for this town, which boasts approximately 68,000 residents.

Another positive aspect of this small city is its proximity to New York and Boston, and all the cultural opportunities that those metropolitan areas have to offer. The city is also home to the Danbury Westerners, a collegiate baseball franchise that, during the summer months, brings top-level talent to baseball fans in the region thanks to loyal support from local businesses.

Popular shopping attractions include Stew Leonard's on Federal Road and the Danbury Fair Mall on the city's west side - one of the largest regional shopping malls in New England. In the hub of the city, Danbury's CityCenter is home to several long-established businesses including Feinson's fine clothing, Meeker's Hardware, a national historic treasure, plus an assortment of specialty shops. Federal Road has also become a mecca for several large, national chain stores.