Meriden Connecticut – Known as The Silver City

Meriden Connecticut boasts a history that dates back more than 400 years, providing residents with plenty to do - from outdoor recreation to shopping and dining. It truly is an idyllic place to call home! Meriden was previously part of Wallingford but was granted its own meetinghouse in 1727, officially becoming a town in 1806, and finally becoming a city in 1867. The oldest house still stands today - built by Solomon Goffe in 1711 – is now housed as a museum.

History

Meriden, Connecticut is situated along the Quinnipiac River with the Hanging Hills to its west. Originally part of Wallingford, it became incorporated as both a town in 1806 and a city in 1867. Meriden, England was the name of this city which was named for Meriden Britannia (now International Silver Company), C.F. Monroe Company, Charles Parker Company, and Parker Brothers; all famous for their sterling silver hollowware production during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Other businesses producing silverware or products associated with it were the Miller Company, Wilcox and White, Handel Company, and Bradley & Hubbard Manufacturing Company. Furthermore, there were several factories for firearms and lamps as well as a railroad station on the New Haven - Hartford - Springfield line.

Today, Meriden is an industrial hub and service-based economy. The city boasts several colleges and universities such as Central Connecticut State University and Wesleyan University. Meriden is located near several parks and ski areas, making it a desirable place to live. Furthermore, there are numerous historical sites and museums within the city limits such as Solomon Gosse House. The city is situated along Interstate 91, providing easy access to Hartford and New Haven. Additionally, Wallingford and Waterbury can be reached via commuter rail lines.

The city's history is colorful and captivating, boasting an array of attractions. It was famous for its silver industry and once known as "The Silver City." Additionally, there is a comprehensive library system and vibrant arts community in place. Furthermore, downtown is currently undergoing transformation with plans to open a brand-new train station soon!

Economy

Meriden, CT is known as "The Silver City," with a service-based economy. Its vibrant technology sector has generated numerous start-ups that have created job opportunities for local residents and business owners alike. Furthermore, Meriden boasts low living costs and tax breaks provided by the Connecticut state government that make it an attractive location to relocate or expand operations. Meriden's economy is highly diversified, featuring a mix of industries such as healthcare, financial services, and education. Its downtown area is currently being redeveloped to improve transportation access, spur economic development, and promote Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) around the Meriden Intermodal Center.

Commuting is an integral component of a city's economic success. Not only do they draw in new businesses, but also give residents an incentive to stay put - leading to more employment opportunities and robust economic development.The City of Meriden is committed to supporting residents and businesses alike. The Community Development Division works with those experiencing poverty, administering various State and Federal grants and programs. Furthermore, they promote Meriden through various media outlets as well as other promotional activities. Furthermore, staff supports the Economic Development Task Force, Meriden Manufacturing Assistance Agency, as well as several Transit Oriented Development initiatives within the city limits.

Education

School districts in Connecticut have been working diligently to keep students on track and ready for college or the workforce. From dealing with COVID-19 to creating school year budgets and planning facilities projects, they're doing their part to keep pupils in the classroom and on top of their studies. Pulaski Elementary School in Meriden has made a notable distinction by adding enrichment to their regular teaching schedules. Grades 3 through 5 receive lessons in woodworking, technology, instrumental music, scrapbooking, French or Italian culture studies, nature studies cultures world cultures mathematics games, and physical fitness during this extended learning time. The new courses were tailored to match the curriculum at Pulaski, a high-performing school located in an ethnically diverse community with many parents who are immigrants. A significant number of its students are English language learners.

Coffey and her colleagues understood that in order to attract and retain teachers at Pulaski, they needed to ensure the curriculum was engaging for them. To this end, they enlisted the assistance of the school's instructional assistant in creating a series of classes that would make Pulaski more than just another traditional elementary school. By working together with the teachers union, Coffey and her team were able to create an inclusive educational model. They created professional learning communities which give all teachers a voice in district instructional decisions and guarantee all stakeholders have a seat at the table when discussing educational matters. The district also reached a contract with the teachers' union to increase classroom time for them. This was an enormous victory for educators, as it provided them with much-needed collaboration time and allowed them to spend more quality face-to-face time with their students.

Arts & Culture

Meriden, Connecticut has a vibrant arts community. For instance, the Art Colony Association (ACAM), a nonprofit art organization, hosts demonstrations by local artists and offers exhibition spaces to display their artwork. ACAM boasts two galleries on the first floor of its main building and in a former factory building. Visitors can explore the art displayed there as well as watch artists at work in the studios. The ACAM is an invaluable resource for art history and the fine arts in general. It also hosts many art events, such as painting classes and lectures. Meriden's arts and cultural scene is evident through the city's businesses. Notable examples include Meriden Britannia Company, International Silver Company, Wilcox Silver Plate Co. and Manning, Bowman & Co.

Meriden is home to numerous companies, such as Holmes & Edwards Silver Company, Bradley & Hubbard Mfg Co., Meriden Flint Glass Works and Charles Parker company (vises). Holmes & Edwards Silver Company showcased a range of designs at its showroom, including tea sets and nut bowls. Some of these creations earned gold medals. Meriden Britannia Company and International Silver Company, also referred to by their dealers in the trade as "Meriden Silver Companies," were featured at an exhibit featuring several pieces such as a Liberty Bell from Philadelphia, silver teapots from Auxiliary cruiser Mortara, Spanish silver relics, and more. Meriden Connecticut boasts a variety of recreational opportunities, such as a 1,800-acre park with an observation tower that offers spectacular views of the Sleeping Giant Mountain Range and New Haven. Furthermore, visitors can take advantage of the Quinnipiac River Linear Trail to walk or run along.

Sports & Recreation

Meriden offers an abundance of sports and recreational options, from public and private parks to fields and playgrounds. Additionally, there is a comprehensive network of trails, paths, and bikeways for people to enjoy. According to Meriden's 2020 Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD), there are 2,322 acres of open space and recreation areas within its borders - representing 15% of its land area. These spaces offer numerous benefits to citizens, businesses, as well as the environment. Public open spaces and parklands can help improve air and water quality, reduce traffic congestion, and raise property values. Furthermore, they offer recreational opportunities and foster community ties.

Meriden boasts a variety of outdoor facilities and parks, but two that are particularly popular are Hubbard and Giuffrida Parks. Furthermore, the City owns numerous conservation easements that safeguard natural habitats as well as wildlife. Hubbard and Giuffrida offer breathtaking views of Quinnipiac River and Hanover Pond from several trails. These hikes are popular with families as well as those seeking some exercise. Additionally, the City of Meriden is undertaking two projects to upgrade sports fields and outdoor recreation facilities in its North End. One upgrade involves upgrading North End Field Little League complex on Britannia Street by adding a baseball diamond and softball field; the other involves converting a full-sized basketball court into a half-court with a playground adjacent to it. Meriden has a variety of rules and regulations in place to safeguard residents, visitors, and pets in its parks and recreation areas. These include restrictions on fishing, boating, and overnight camping.