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Stafford, CT

Frequently asked questions

Stafford, CT

Stafford is a town in Tolland County, Connecticut, United States, settled in 1719. The town is part of the Capitol Planning Region. The population was 11,472 at the 2020 United States Census. The community consists of the downtown area of Stafford Springs and the more rural villages of Crystal Lake, Ellithorpe, Hydeville, Orcuttsville, Staffordville, Stafford Hollow, Village Hill, and West Stafford. The town most likely derives its name from Staffordshire, in England.

The Colonial Town of Stafford began as a rural agricultural community in the eastern part of Hartford County. It became part of Tolland County upon the latter's formation on 13 October 1785. The easy availability of water power from the tributaries of the Willimantic River led to industrialization, and this abundance of power helped generate local population growth. By the mid-19th century, Stafford was connected by railroad to markets across New England, and before the State Highway projects of the 1920s and 1930s, the town had a trolley connection to Rockville. During the Civil War, factories in Stafford made cannonballs and other war supplies for the northern forces.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 58.8 sq mi (152.2 km²), of which 58.0 sq mi (150.1 km²) is land and 0.81 sq mi (2.1 km²) (1.38%) is water; it is the fourth largest town in Connecticut based on area.

Stafford Springs is located at the intersection of Routes 190 and 32, in the northeastern region of the state. The community consists of the downtown area of Stafford Springs and the more rural villages of Crystal Lake, Ellithorpe, Hydeville, Orcuttsville, Staffordville, Stafford Hollow, Village Hill, and West Stafford.

While the town has managed to maintain its New England mill-town charm and culture, it is also a bedroom commuter town feeding into larger area communities. Many residents drive into Hartford, Manchester, and Enfield, Connecticut, as well as Springfield, Massachusetts, all of which can be reached in roughly a 30-mile auto commute. It is also about a half-hour drive to the University of Connecticut's main campus in Storrs. The highest point in town is the western slope of Burley Hill at 1,300'. Burley Hill's "summit" is 1,315'.

Stafford places a strong emphasis on health and wellness for its residents. Johnson Memorial Medical Center offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Planet Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. Fitness enthusiasts can join Stafford Flex Appeal, which provides modern exercise equipment and a variety of fitness classes. For yoga lovers, Serenity Yoga and Wellness Studio offers classes for all levels in a peaceful setting. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed at Staffordville Lake, perfect for swimming, boating, and picnicking. Stafford Family Chiropractic provides holistic health services, including chiropractic care and massage therapy. CrossFit EXP offers high-intensity workouts designed to improve strength and endurance.

The top sites in Stafford, CT are the Connecticut Science Center, Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nipmuck State Forest.

Population: 11,472 (2020). ZIP Codes: 06076. Area codes: 860, 959. Elevation: 627 ft (191 m). Area: 58.8 sq mi (152.2 km²).

FAQs

What was Stafford, CT known for?

Stafford has a rich historical heritage. Long before its incorporation as a town in 1719, the famous mineral springs drew Native Americans and settlers to the Stafford area for the curative properties of the water. When initially incorporated, most of the population of Stafford was concentrated in 6-7 agricultural villages. 

Is Stafford, CT a good place to live?

Like all New England towns - residents of Stafford enjoy the joy of the change of seasons. Snowy winters, beautiful springs, mild summers, and scenic autumns provide a diverse experience for residents. Stafford is a safe place when compared to similar size communities throughout the United States and Connecticut. It boasts crime rates below both the national and Connecticut state averages.

What county is Stafford, CT?

Stafford is a town in Tolland County, Connecticut, United States, settled in 1719. The town is part of the Capitol Planning Region. The population was 11,472 at the 2020 United States Census. The community consists of the downtown area of Stafford Springs and the more rural villages of Crystal Lake, Ellithorpe, Hydeville, Orcuttsville, Staffordville, Stafford Hollow, Village Hill, and West Stafford. The town most likely derives its name from Staffordshire, in England.

Sources

Wikipedia

CT Visit

Town of Stafford

Connecticut Science Center

Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary

Nipmuck State Forest

Johnson Memorial Medical Center

Planet Fitness

Stafford Flex Appeal

Serenity Yoga and Wellness Studio

Staffordville Lake

Stafford Family Chiropractic

CrossFit EXP

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