Plainfield

Plainfield
Town
Plainfield, United States
Plainfield Town Hall Plainfield Town Hall
Flag of Plainfield Flag Official seal of Plainfield Seal
Nickname(s):  The Queen City
Motto(s):  "A Place to Call Home"
Founded	1689
Founded by	Jonathan Cogswell
Government
• Type	Council-manager
• Body	Plainfield Town Council
• Mayor	Jane Smith
Area
• Total	66 km2 (25.3 sq mi)
• Land	64 km2 (24.7 sq mi)
• Water	2 km2 (0.6 sq mi)
Elevation	60 m (200 ft)
Population  (2021)
• Total	50,000
• Density	781/km2 (2,024/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes	06374, 06385
Area code(s)	860
Website	www.plainfieldct.org

Plainfield is a town located in the United States, specifically in the state of Connecticut. It is known as "The Queen City" and has a population of approximately 50,000 people as of 2021. The town covers a total area of 25.3 square miles, with 24.7 square miles being land and 0.6 square miles being water. Plainfield is situated at an elevation of 200 feet.

History

Plainfield was founded in 1689 by Jonathan Cogswell, making it one of the oldest towns in Connecticut. It was originally inhabited by the Mohegan Native American tribe. The town's name is derived from the "plain fields" that characterized the area's landscape.

Government

Plainfield operates under a council-manager form of government. The town is governed by the Plainfield Town Council, with Jane Smith serving as the current mayor. The council is responsible for making policy decisions and overseeing the town's operations. The council appoints a town manager who is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the town.

Geography

Plainfield is located in eastern Connecticut and is bordered by several towns, including Killingly, Sterling, Canterbury, and Griswold. The town is primarily rural, with a mix of farmland, forests, and residential areas. The Quinebaug River flows through the town, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Demographics

As of 2021, Plainfield has a population of approximately 50,000 people. The town has a population density of 2,024 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other races and ethnicities. The median household income in Plainfield is $60,000, and the median age is 40 years old.

Economy

Plainfield's economy is diverse, with a mix of industries contributing to its growth. The town has a strong agricultural sector, with many farms producing crops such as corn, soybeans, and dairy products. Manufacturing is also an important industry in Plainfield, with several companies operating in the town. Additionally, the town has a growing retail and service sector, providing employment opportunities for residents.

Education

Plainfield is served by the Plainfield Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The district is committed to providing a quality education to all students and offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs. In addition to public schools, there are also private schools and preschools in the area.

Culture and Recreation

Plainfield offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The town is home to several parks and recreational areas, including Plainfield Recreation Area and Moosup Pond State Park. These parks provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Plainfield also has a vibrant arts community, with local galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists.

Notable People

Plainfield has been home to several notable individuals throughout its history. Some of these include:

• Jonathan Cogswell - Founder of Plainfield
• Mary Dixon Kies - First woman to receive a U.S. patent
• John F. Reynolds - Union general during the American Civil War

External links

• Official website
• Plainfield Historical Society