The Town of Cheshire sits in a region known as the Connecticut Central Valley. The valley was formed over hundreds of millions of years during which mountains rose and fell and Ice Age glaciers invaded then receded. The eons of geological activity left this area with a rich soil which began to draw European settlers as far back as 1676. There is evidence of Native American settlement predating that.

Originally named “New Cheshire” the town was incorporated as ‘’Cheshire” in 1780. The first school was opened in 1719 and the first church established in 1724. In 1780 Cheshire’s population was roughly 2,000 people. The town has an area of roughly 33 square miles.

Over the years Cheshire’s economy has reflected its natural resources and the industry of its citizens. Originally a farm community the economy broadened in the 1830’s through the 1850’s with the building of the Farmington Canal, the introduction of the railroad and the discovery of the mineral barite.

The barite mines closed over a century ago but vestiges of that industry can still be seen while hiking in the towns greenspace. The canal and adjacent railroad beds have been transformed into a green ribbon of beautiful walking paths.

Light manufacturing and transportation businesses now inhabit the north end of town and a broad healthcare related infrastructure has been developed. Numerous retail stores and restaurants meet the daily needs of Cheshire’s 29,000+ citizens. Known as The Plant Bedding Capital of Connecticut, Cheshire still maintains its traditional connection to the land.

The Cheshire Republican Party has been part of the town’s political fabric for well over a century. Its members have consistently provided the forward-looking leadership needed to keep Cheshire vibrant and prosperous.

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