New London: An Introduction

Founded in 1646 by John Winthrop, Jr., New London sits at the junction of the Thames River and Long Island Sound. Such a location offers strategic access to both the river and the ocean, and in past days, the town's status as a deep-water port made it a prominent shipping, trading, and whaling center.

In fact, these industries helped build the fortunes of New London, as evidenced by many of its impressive homes and civic structures.

Although the town was burned by the British (under the leadership of Benedict Arnold) in 1781, it recovered nicely and has been a solid maritime presence on Connecticut's southeastern coast for centuries. History, culture, natural beauty they all coalesce in New London, which now, as always, is tinged with a hint of salt and a strong measure of providence.