Population: 8,270
Area: 32.2 Square Miles
Commute Times: Hartford: 50 Minutes; JFK Airport: 95 Minutes; Manhattan: 90 Minutes; Stamford: 45 Minutes; White Plains, NY: 50 Minutes
Recreation/attractions: Public Parks, Mark Twain Town Library, Steichen Pond, Revolutionary War Battle Enactment, Redding Country Club, New Pond Farm, The Discovery Center at Ridgefield
The History or Redding is comprehensively compiled by the folks at History of Redding.com _____________________________________________
Once a section of Fairfield, the peaceful country town of Redding was incorporated in 1767. Modern Redding has changed little in appearance since that time. The diligent efforts of residents to preserve the New England charm and natural splendor of town have resulted in a choice spot for family living and picturesque surroundings for appreciation of nature. 1,400 acres of pristine land was purchased by residents for the express purpose of preservation.
New home construction is also carefully monitored to prevent over-development and requires a two-acre lot. Existing houses are set on roomy lots amidst rolling hills and open meadows and are encompassed by the traditional stone fences of New England. A wide variety of designs and sizes meet the needs of residents.
The Mark Twain Library, located at the crossroads of Rt. 53 and Diamond Hill Road was founded in 1908 by Samuel Clemens - Mark Twain. The original collection of books were his own. The Library offers weekly reading clubs for adults and students, nearly 38,000 books, CDs, videos, records and more.
Cultural and recreational activities abound in this outdoor paradise, with an impressive number of programs specifically for the town's children. Exciting and enriching programs, including sports, arts classes and the offerings of a modern clubhouse, are sponsored by the local Boys and Girls Club and complement Redding's formal education. The public school system provides a solid academic base through one elementary school, one middle school and one high school.
Sporting and leisure is plentiful with cross-country skiing at Huntington State Park, and additional hiking trails and horseback riding at Topstone Park and Sunset Hill Riding Academy. Steichen Pond, named for the prominent resident and director of Photography at the Modern Museum of Art, is also in Topstone Park and offers swimming and sunbathing. Children's equestrian training is available at the Lonetown Pony Club, and The Redding Country Club, a private country club featuring a golf course, tennis courts and many social functions.
Cultural attractions include a fascinating reenactment of a Revolutionary War battle and encampment on the grounds of Putnam Memorial Park each year. Delightful Sunday evening concerts are performed on the Green during the summer months. |
