Greenwich is the tenth oldest town in Connecticut. The first settlement
in Greenwich was founded in 1640, on land purchased from the local
natives. Old Greenwich was actually purchased for "twenty five coats."
The settlers came to this area to escape the more rigid pressures of
Puritan communities to the north. Soon, Dutch and English settlers
followed. There was a lot of conflict and attacks between the settlers
and the natives. The Native Americans were forced to retreat from their
hunting and farming areas. Greenwich was first called Elizabeth’s Neck
and was later named after Greenwich, England – former home of some of
its earlier residents.
The harbors and rivers that encompass Greenwich were very important
economically to transport produce and other goods to New York and
English markets. Cos Cob waterfront, at this time, was a key economic
and cultural center to Greenwich. Now, cultural and economic functions
are centered around well known "Greenwich Avenue," where New York City
influences have afforded us the benefits of the city yet still allows
Greenwich to maintain its overall rural atmosphere.
Education, even as early as the 1600’s, was of great concern to the
people of Greenwich. By the mid 18th century, the town had nine school
districts for public education. John Perrott opened the first private
school in 1766 in downtown Old Greenwich. Today, you can visit the
Perrott Memorial Library next to scenic Binney Park (a great place to
picnic!).
Greenwich was primarily a farming town. In the early 1800’s,
the railroad wrought many wealthy New Yorkers, who eventually settled
here. Greenwich developed into a summer resort. Many New Yorkers wanted
to escape the noisy city. Homes and hotels were built along the
beautiful shoreline. The hotels attracted many artists and writers. The
famed Bush-Holley House, a treasured saltbox built in 1732, is now a
National Historic Landmark. It is also a nationally recognized museum
for art and history. It housed the artists who came to Greenwich in the
1890’s such as Childe Hassam, John Twachtman, Theodore Robinson and
Emer Livingston MacRae. Their paintings of the local scenery made
Greenwich known as the birthplace of the American Impressionist Art
Movement. These paintings are on display at the Bush Holley house,
along with a spectacular collection of 18th century furnishings and
accessories (the Inn is also filled with many American Impressionist
reproductions). This historical site is a place worth visiting.
Today, celebrating its 350th anniversary, Greenwich is the home
of many large corporations that has brought people here from all parts
of the world. You can enjoy being in "the country" and still be in "the
city" within an hour. It’s the best of both worlds.
Explore the beautiful countryside of Greenwich Connecticut. One of the
most affluent towns in New England, it offers a plethora of leisure
activities ranging from boating and golfing to enjoying one of many
four-star restaurants.
Take time out to visit the famed Bush Holley Museum with its historical
art and 18th century furnishings and the Bruce Museum with its
ever-changing displays located in the midst of beautiful Bruce Park.
The array of art, musical and theater productions are all near-by,
which make your New England visit even more enjoyable. In addition,
shopping abounds in the well-known boutiques and antique shops that
line colorful "Greenwich Avenue." And of course, last but not least,
your taste buds will be treated with the area’s many four-star
restaurants conveniently close by. The Stamford Town Center, located
about 5 minutes away, is filled with hundreds of wonderful stores!
Greenwich is only 45 minutes from New York City. What a perfect way to enjoy the wonders of nature and the city all in one day
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