Bridgeport has a well-positioned harbor which was used by the early settlers as the center of farming, fishing, whaling and shipbuilding. Since it first became a settlement in 1659, it has been known under a number of different names. Until 1695 it was called Pequannock, then it changed to Fairfield Village and eventually to Stratfield due to its proximity to neighboring towns of the same name. During the American Revolution in the 19th century, the area was a center of privateering and in 1800 the borough of Bridgeport was officially chartered. It was named “Bridgeport” to honor the first drawbridge that was erected over the river in 1800. In 1821, Bridgeport was later incorporated as a town, but not until 1836 that it was chartered. When the railroad opened in 1840, the industrial center of Bridgeport grew as many items began to be made. These included carriages, brass and cast iron fittings, sewing machines, tools, saddlery and ammunition. By the 1930s, the community had established close to 500 manufacturing firms. To this day, Bridgeport is known as a manufacturing center which produces electrics, transportation equipment, plastics and machine tools. In 1881, showman, resident and town mayor of Bridgeport, P T Barnum, built four houses where his traveling circus was housed. Barnum continued improvements to the city by building the Bridgeport Hospital. In 1873, Bridgeport’s city flag was designed. Each aspect of the design represents meaning to the city of Bridgeport. The anvil, cogwheel and hammer represent the city’s industry and the bridge symbolizes the first drawbridge over the Pequannock River. The cornucopia represents wealth, and finally, the sailing ship celebrates the area’s maritime commerce and industry. It was in the year 1936 that Bridgeport’s city flag was created for a centennial commemoration event. The flag is similar to many other flags of nearby cities with its dark blue field and Old English lettering above and below the central seal. The top reads the “City of Bridgeport” with “Connecticut” spelled out below. The seal portrays a view of the city’s economic and civic life.

Before you decide on whether to buy a house in Bridgeport, CT, you need to consider the amenities in the city and in the surrounding countryside. Known as the Park City, it is clear that Bridgeport is a city made up of plenty of green spaces and parks. So if you love spending time outdoors, then Bridgeport, CT may be the place for you.

Seaside Park is a lovely green space by the water combining the two most notable aspects of Bridgeport. There is plenty of parking and many sandy areas for friends and family to spread out. Plus, there are public grills to use for summertime BBQs.

Other notable city center parks include Ellsworth, West End and Riverfront. All are wonderfully maintained and have facilities on-site to increase the enjoyment of city life for both residents and visitors.