Fairfield

Now a fast-growing city of over 100,000, Fairfield was once the home of the Patwin Suisuni Indians, whose famous Chief Solano became one of the few native landowners in California in the 1830s. Halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento on the route to the gold fields, the town was founded by clipper ship captain Robert Waterman. A shrewd trader, Waterman offered the new Solano County government free land and cash to relocate to his new city, making it the county seat. Soon the railroad, and later the state highway, chose a route through Fairfield, creating an urban center for the beautiful agricultural valleys that surround it.

Fairfield, including its village of Southport, is steeped in tradition and is rich in history. Many people who call this coastal Connecticut community home already know that Fairfield was founded in 1639 by Roger Ludlow and was visited in 1789 by Pres. George Washington, who actually spent the night at the Sun Tavern. However, do they also know the history of Pulpit Rock or for that matter, could they locate it? What about the granite planter at the junction of Main Street, Center Street, and Harbor Road--do they know the story behind that? Those residents who "remember Fairfield when . . .," as well as those with a desire to learn more about "Fairfield when . . .," will be fascinated by Fairfield and Southport.

Sprinkled with flowering dogwoods and elegant estates, Fairfield has long symbolized Connecticuts elite Gold Coast. But there is far more to this leafy suburban enclave than stately homes and inviting forests. Founded in 1639 by Roger Ludlow, Fairfields New England roots run deep. British soldiers torched the village in 1779, and for a time the community teetered on the brink of extinction. But the settlers rebuilt with a vengeance, helping to establish a new foundation for what has become a truly dynamic town. From its founding to the present day, Fairfield has enjoyed a rich and diverse history. Let author Rita Papazian guide you through it all in Remembering Fairfield.

The Culinary History of Fairfield, Connecticut, brims with bygone and beloved eateries and watering holes. Discover some of these lose classics, from the Sun Tavern-where George Washington enjoyed a few victuals-to the Scenario, where local celebrities always had a seat reserved at the bar. The best doughnuts in town were at the corner of Post and Beaumont at Devore's, while Art Green served up his famous chocolate cream pies at the Pie Plate. Join author Patti Woods for a generous serving of nostalgia complete with nachos from Sidetrack's, chili from Kuhn's and maybe even an ice cold beer from the Driftwood. Book jacket.

Local legend says that Marquis Charles Cornwallis, Revolutionary War hero, rode into this area and declared, "How fair are these hills" and thus, Fairfield County was born. Fairfield County is a unique blend of tradition, culture, and history. Freedom-seekers, farmers, and religious folks came from the northern trails, while many aristocrats and plantation owners traveled from the coast. These citizens bred a unique and proud folk ranging from sturdy military men who protected their land during the American Revolution and the Civil War to educators who started well-known educational institutions and produced prominent military men and politicians who forever changed the world. Fairfield County is also known for its culture and music. Many recognized beauty queens, artists, musicians, and sports figures hail from this midland region of South Carolina.