Explore Stratford
Stratford is a dynamic coastal town with an area of 18.7 square miles and a population of approximately 50,000 residents on Long Island Sound and adjacent to Bridgeport, Trumbull, Shelton and Milford, Connecticut. Within 60 miles of New York City, Stratford is an easy commute via Interstate 95 or Metro North Train Service, Route 8/25 and the Merritt Parkway provide access to the Northeast corridor. Lordship’s, Sikorsky Memorial Airport, is a corporate hub providing commuter air services throughout the Northeast.
Founded in 1639, the first settlers arrived and together cultivated a Common Field which had previously been corn fields cleared and planted by the Paugussett Indians. This area came to be known as Great Neck and included present day Lordship and Stratford Point. The town prospered as an active port in coastal trade, agricultural production; primarily onions, and oyster harvesting. Lordship was a windswept landscape in colonial days. Legend has it, witches would build bonfires and lure ships onto the rocks at Breezy Point (north end of Prospect Drive now known as Stratford Point) leading many to believe this area was haunted. In fact, bonfires were used to aid navigation at Stratford Point, the treacherous convergence of Long Island Sound and the mouth of the Housatonic River. In 1822, Stratford Point Lighthouse was built at a cost of $4000. To this day, Stratford Point Lighthouse proudly stands guard. On September 14th, 1939, Russian immigrant and aviator Igor Sikorsky, successfully flew the first helicopter at his Stratford aircraft plant. Renowned Sikorsky Aircraft remains the world’s leading helicopter manufacturer with extensive facilities based in North Stratford. Lordship’s Russian Beach is thus called for the many resident Russian immigrants who were employed by the legendary Igor Sikorsky.
Today, Stratford is a thriving community with excellent recreational venues and wonderful seafood restaurants dotting the coasts of Long Island Sound and the Housatonic River. Commercial enterprises maintain equilibrium with the congeniality of residents proud to call Stratford home.
Early Colonial houses throughout town and along the shorelines are reminiscent of the roots of a small coastal town however, the recent mix of desirable condominium complexes and beautifully designed custom residences are in full compliment.
We look forward to welcoming you to Stratford!