New London County

New London County is a county located in the southeastern corner of the state of Connecticut, in the United States. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 267,954. New London County is part of the Hartford-West Hartford, CT Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is also included within the New York-Newark, NY-NJ-CT-PA Combined Statistical Area. It is one of four Connecticut counties that do not have a county government; instead, the towns are responsible for all local government activities.

History

New London County was one of the original four counties of Connecticut established in 1666 by the Connecticut General Court. The county was named after London, England. Throughout its history, New London County has been an important maritime hub, with the city of New London serving as a significant port of entry and naval base. The county played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War, with the Battle of Groton Heights being one of the notable conflicts within its borders.

Geography

New London County covers an area of 772 square miles, of which 666 square miles is land and 106 square miles (13.7%) is water. It is bordered by the Long Island Sound to the south, Windham County to the north, Middlesex County to the west, and the state of Rhode Island to the east. The terrain of the county is characterized by its coastal plains, rolling hills, and the Thames River, which flows through the county from north to south.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, New London County has a diverse population with a significant representation of racial and ethnic minorities. The demographic breakdown includes a majority of White residents, followed by significant percentages of Black or African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The county has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, with a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds among its inhabitants.

Economy

The economy of New London County is diverse, with key industries including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. The United States Navy's Naval Submarine Base New London, located in Groton, Connecticut, is a major employer and economic driver in the region. The county is also home to several institutions of higher education, including Connecticut College and the United States Coast Guard Academy, which contribute to the local economy through education and research.

Education

New London County is served by a variety of public and private educational institutions. The county's public school districts offer education from kindergarten through 12th grade, and there are also several private schools catering to a range of educational needs and preferences. Higher education institutions in the county include Connecticut College, the United States Coast Guard Academy, and the regional campus of the University of Connecticut.

Transportation

The county is served by a network of roads, including Interstate 95 and Interstate 395, which provide connectivity to other parts of Connecticut and the broader New England region. The Shore Line East and Amtrak rail services offer passenger rail connections. Additionally, the New London ferry terminal provides passenger and vehicle ferry services to Long Island, New York, and Block Island, Rhode Island.

Culture and Recreation

New London County is known for its rich history, cultural institutions, and recreational opportunities. The county boasts numerous historical sites, museums, and theaters. The coastline and public beaches offer opportunities for water-based recreation, while state parks and forests provide venues for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.