Durham

The town of Durham, Connecticut has the best of both worlds; on the one hand, it has a rural, residential environment with extensive open space, and on the other hand, it enjoys a location convenient to nearby major metropolitan areas. It is not far from the scenic beaches of Long Island Sound, and it is only 100 miles from New York City, but it has a distinctly small town atmosphere.

Most of the town’s residents live within a few minutes of their employment, but Durham, which is centrally located in Connecticut about halfway between Hartford and New Haven, is on a regional transportation hub with easy access to Interstate Highway routes 91, 84, 95 and State Highway routes 9 and 691.

Durham’s population of just over 7000 citizens enjoy an above state average median household income, an above state average median home value, and unemployed percentages significantly below state average.

Public schools and private schools in Durham serve a highly educated population. Colleges and universities in the area include Wesleyan University (about 6 miles), Central Connecticut State University (about 15 miles), Quinnipiac University (about 16 miles), Yale University (about 19 miles), Trinity College (about 19 miles), Gateway Community College (about 21 miles), and Manchester Community College (about 23 miles).

From its settlement in the 1600's to the present day, Durham has displayed its own distinctively independent spirit and character. For example, although it provided soldiers and supplies for the Revolutionary War (two oxen presented by Durhamites were driven 500 miles to Valley Forge to feed officers of Washington's Army), the same citizens in town meeting voted to refuse to ratify the US Constitution; incidentally, a vote was taken to approve ratification at a town meeting almost two hundred years later, in 1976!

Durham’s historic character is evident in the Main Street Historic District, where streets are lined with 18th and 19th century homes under spreading trees. The village green provides a fine setting for the town hall, where lively town meetings take place.

The legislative body is the town meeting, and all citizens are encouraged to participate. Durham’s efficient town government is conducted by an elected three-member Board of Selectmen, with the position of First Selectman being full time.

Parks and recreational areas include Cockaponset State Forest, Durham Meadows Hunting Area, and the skiing facilities at nearby Powder Ridge. Various streams, brooks, millponds, and creeks bring delight to the area. Local festivals include the September Durham Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in the world.

Durham provides a serene pastoral setting with good schools and extensive open space. It is an excellent place to bring your business and your family.

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