Branford, Connecticut

Branford, Connecticut

[[File:Seal of Branford, Connecticut.png|100px|Seal]]

Seal

South Central Connecticut Planning Region and Connecticut

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Branford. Yes, that Branford. It’s a shoreline town that clings to the edge of Long Island Sound with the tenacity of a barnacle. Situated within New Haven County, Connecticut, this municipality is positioned approximately 6 miles (10 km) to the east of the bustling, or perhaps merely extant, downtown New Haven. As if its location wasn't sufficiently defined, the town is also a constituent part of the South Central Connecticut Planning Region, a designation that presumably brings with it a certain bureaucratic gravitas.

Its borders are, predictably, shared with other towns: East Haven to the west, Guilford to the east, and North Branford to the north. One might imagine these boundaries are less about natural divisions and more about historical accidents and property lines. According to the 2020 United States census, the population of Branford stood at 28,273 residents. [1] A figure that, for better or worse, defines its current demographic footprint.

Geography

According to the ever-diligent United States Census Bureau, this particular town spans a total area of 28.0 square miles (73 km 2 ). Of this, a comfortable 22.0 square miles (57 km 2 ) is designated as land, leaving a rather substantial 6.0 square miles (16 km 2 )—or 21.5% of its total area—as water. This aquatic embrace includes the meandering Branford River, the less-celebrated Queach Brook, and the aptly named Branford Supply Ponds. One might almost infer that water is rather important here.

The town boasts two distinct harbors: the more centrally located Branford Harbor, and the slightly more eastern Stony Creek Harbor. For those inclined to partake in the simple pleasures of the seaside, a single town beach awaits at Branford Point.

Much of Branford's western boundary, shared with East Haven, is dominated by the serene, yet entirely practical, Lake Saltonstall. This body of water serves as a vital reservoir, diligently managed by the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority. Adjacent to the lake, and equally imposing, is Saltonstall Mountain, a prominent feature of the Metacomet Ridge. This geological marvel is a mountainous ridgeline composed of trap rock that stretches with impressive indifference from Long Island Sound all the way to the approximate vicinity of the Vermont border. The southern terminus of this impressive ridge, known rather modestly as Beacon Hill, is conveniently situated within Branford itself.

Adding a touch of the picturesque—or perhaps just inconveniently placed rocks—the town of Branford also encompasses the Thimble Islands. These islands, a scattered collection of glacial debris, manage to be both a geographic curiosity and a point of local pride. As previously noted, Branford shares its borders with North Branford to the north, Guilford to the east, and East Haven to the west, forming a rather predictable patchwork of municipal divisions.

History

The area, originally known as Totoket—a name that, unlike its successor, actually sounds interesting—was acquired from the Mattabesech Indians in 1638. This transaction was facilitated by the initial English settlers of New Haven, a familiar pattern in colonial expansion. Prior to this, in the 17th century, the ever-enterprising Dutch, hailing from the New Netherland settlements, had established a trading post at the mouth of the Branford River. This early presence is the enduring legacy behind the name "Dutch Wharf," also referred to as "Dutch House Wharf" and the Dutch House Quarter. [2] It seems even then, real estate was a prime concern. The notable Ezra Stiles further documented the area as possessing a "Dutch Fort," a detail subtly corroborated by archaeological excavations conducted in the 1990s. [3] One can only imagine the Dutch, a bastion of pragmatic trading, appreciating the strategic value of such a location.

The town's current, slightly less exotic name is generally accepted to be a phonetic simplification derived from Brentford, England. [4] Early maps, with a refreshing lack of originality, initially labeled the settlement as Brentford before it was inevitably shortened to the more succinct Branford. Established as a formal entity in 1644, Branford experienced a period of steady, if unspectacular, growth throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The late 18th century saw the emergence of the first recognized shoreline community, Stony Creek, which would later become a distinctive part of Branford's identity. Other areas like Indian Neck and Pine Orchard also saw early settlement attempts, though these were not consistently sustained until the mid-19th century. [2] It seems commitment issues are not a modern phenomenon.

The year 1852 marked a significant turning point, as the arrival of the railroad—that ubiquitous harbinger of progress—injected new vitality into the local economy. This infrastructure development directly contributed to the establishment of new businesses, including the Branford Lockworks, the Malleable Iron Fittings Company, and the Atlantic Wire Company. These industrial ventures laid the groundwork for a more diversified local economy. Concurrently, the Stony Creek granite quarries, already a local resource, ascended to greater prominence, their valuable stone now efficiently transported by the very same railroad. [2]

The mid-19th century also witnessed Branford's surprising transformation into a fashionable resort destination. Approximately twenty hotels, each vying for the attention of weary urbanites, opened their doors, offering respite and recreation. Notable establishments included the Indian Point House in Stony Creek, the Montowese House in Indian Neck, and the Sheldon House in Pine Orchard. [2] However, as with all fleeting trends, this resort image eventually faded. By the mid-20th century, Branford had largely shed its vacation-spot veneer, evolving instead into a community exhibiting many of the predictable characteristics typically associated with northeastern suburbs. A testament to the relentless, and often uninspired, march of progress.

Climate

For those who insist on dissecting the meteorological nuances of this particular corner of the world, the climate data for Branford, Connecticut, is presented below. One might find it as predictable as human nature, though perhaps slightly less volatile.

Climate data for Branford, Connecticut
Month
Record high °F (°C)
Mean daily maximum °F (°C)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C)
Record low °F (°C)
Average precipitation inches (mm)
Source: [5]

The data above, compiled from historical records, provides a comprehensive overview of Branford's climate. Summers tend to be warm and occasionally humid, while winters are typically cold, often accompanied by snowfall. Spring and autumn offer a more temperate experience, acting as predictable transitional periods between the extremes. The average annual precipitation indicates a consistently moist environment, ensuring the local flora remains adequately hydrated, whether it wants to or not.

Landmarks and attractions

[[File:Branford Beach.jpg|thumb|A beach in Branford, Connecticut, near Shore Drive.]]

Branford, in its efforts to preserve remnants of its past, has designated six historic districts that have earned a place on the esteemed National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). [ citation needed ] These districts showcase a rather eclectic array of architectural styles, including the dignified symmetry of Federal architecture, the artisanal charm of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the more elaborate, often asymmetrical, flourishes of Queen Anne style architecture in the United States. The five explicitly named NRHP-listed districts are the Branford Center Historic District, the Branford Point Historic District, the Canoe Brook Historic District, the Route 146 Historic District, and the Stony Creek-Thimble Islands Historic District. It seems even the Thimble Islands have a historical designation.

Beyond these broader districts, more than 20 individual historic homes and other properties have been separately recognized and listed on the National Register. In total, a rather impressive 30 properties or districts within Branford are cataloged within the New Haven County's NRHP listings. One particularly well-preserved example is the Harrison House and Museum, a structure dating back to 1724. This venerable building offers a glimpse into colonial life, complete with period furnishings, a collection of local historical items, extensive archives, a functional barn, and, for those with a penchant for the aromatic, a meticulously maintained herb garden. [6] It’s a testament to how long some things can actually last.

For those inclined towards maritime excursions, cruises of the enigmatic Thimble Islands regularly embark from the Stony Creek dock, offering a unique perspective on these peculiar rock formations. Additionally, in the month of March, visitors can partake in seal-watch cruises, allowing a glimpse into the local marine wildlife. [6] Apparently, seals are seasonal attractions.

Branford's dedication to recreation is evident in its array of facilities. These include several meticulously maintained town parks and various beaches, some of which are privately owned but accessible through foundational stewardship. For the more active, hiking trails wind along the picturesque Lake Saltonstall, and a significant stretch of the Shoreline Greenway Trail offers pathways for walking and cycling. The town also boasts an extensive 20 miles (32 km) of coastline, providing ample opportunity for watersports and scenic views, complemented by more than 12 operational marinas.

In a nod to more contemporary leisure pursuits, Branford is also home to two breweries, both cleverly named after prominent local landmarks: the Thimble Island Brewing Company and Stony Creek Brewery. It seems even the consumption of fermented grains has found its place within the local identity.

Demographics

The ebb and flow of human populations can be fascinating, or at least, numerically quantifiable. Below is a historical overview of Branford's population, as meticulously recorded through various censuses.

Historical population
Census
1820
1850
1860
1870
1880
1890
1900
1910
1920
1930
1940
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2000
2010
2020
U.S. Decennial Census [7]

As of the census [8] conducted in 2000, the town recorded a population of 28,683 individuals residing within 12,543 households, which collectively formed 7,663 families. This translates to a population density of 1,305.2 inhabitants per square mile (503.9/km 2 ), indicating a moderately dense suburban environment. The housing stock comprised 13,342 units, distributed at an average density of 607.1 per square mile (234.4/km 2 ).

A statistical dissection of the racial composition reveals that 94.05% of the population identified as white, 1.35% as African American, a mere 0.10% as Native American, 2.72% as Asian, and 0.06% as Pacific Islander. Furthermore, 0.53% reported belonging to other races, with 1.20% identifying with two or more races. The Hispanic or Latino segment, encompassing any race, constituted 2.57% of the total population.

Among the 12,543 households, 25.7% included children under the age of 18, demonstrating a predictable demographic distribution of families. Married couples living together accounted for 47.9%, while 9.8% had a female householder without a husband present. A substantial 38.9% were categorized as non-families. Delving deeper, 32.4% of all households consisted of individuals living alone, with 11.6% specifically being individuals aged 65 years or older. The average household size was calculated at 2.26 persons, and the average family size stood at 2.90 persons.

The age distribution across the town's population in 2000 showed 20.7% under 18 years, 5.4% between 18 and 24, 30.5% from 25 to 44, 26.6% from 45 to 64, and 16.9% aged 65 or older. The median age was determined to be 41 years, suggesting a relatively mature population. For every 100 females, there were 88.9 males, and for every 100 females aged 18 and over, there were 85.2 males.

In terms of economic standing, the median income for a household within the town was $58,009, while families reported a median income of$ 69,510. Males earned a median income of $46,927, notably higher than the$ 35,947 reported for females. The per capita income for Branford was $32,301. Despite these figures, approximately 3.3% of families and 4.1% of the overall population fell below the poverty line, including 3.9% of those under 18 and 4.0% of those aged 65 and older. A reminder that prosperity, like everything else, is unevenly distributed.

Voter registration and party enrollment

As of October 31, 2024, the political landscape of Branford reveals a rather typical Connecticut pattern, with a significant portion of the electorate choosing to remain unaffiliated.

Voter registration and party enrollment as of October 31, 2024 [9]
Party
Democratic
Republican
Unaffiliated
Minor parties
Total

Presidential Election Results

The voting patterns in presidential elections in Branford offer a glimpse into the town's political leanings over several decades. One might observe a consistent, if not entirely unwavering, preference for certain outcomes.

Presidential Election Results [10] [11]
Year
2024
2020
2016
2012
2008
2004
2000
1996
1992
1988
1984
1980
1976
1972
1968
1964
1960
1956

Principal communities in Branford

Branford, like many towns that sprawl rather than condense, is a collection of distinct communities, each with its own flavor, or lack thereof.

Branford Center

The heart of the town, Branford Center, is precisely what one might expect: a nucleus of activity. Main Street is lined with an assortment of small stores, quaint restaurants, and the ubiquitous coffee houses, all radiating outwards from the central Branford Green. The Green itself is a focal point, hosting various churches, the town hall, and other governmental facilities, perpetually ready for civic engagement. It also serves as the venue for public concerts and other local events, such as the annual Branford Festival. A peculiar tradition dictates that the graduating class from Branford High School holds its commencement ceremony directly in front of the Town Hall, assuming the weather chooses to cooperate. It’s a quaint touch, if a bit exposed to the elements.

Branford Hill

Situated on the western edge of town, Branford Hill is largely defined by the heavily commercialized stretch of U.S. Route 1. Here, the landscape is dominated by the predictable array of fast-food establishments, sit-down restaurants, various auto dealerships, grocery stores, and the ever-present strip malls. It is, in essence, a monument to convenience.

However, the more southern portions of Branford Hill offer a stark contrast, featuring less dense residential areas interspersed with woodlands and farms. These natural spaces are diligently preserved by the Branford Land Trust, providing crucial connections to the Shoreline Greenway Trail, which extends from New Haven to Madison. The northern section similarly presents a less developed environment, characterized by extensive woodlands encircling Lake Saltonstall. This lake, as previously noted, functions as a vital reservoir for Branford, with its surrounding trail systems carefully maintained by the Regional Water Authority.

Branford Hill's residential offerings lean heavily towards condominium and apartment complexes, catering to a diverse population. Historically, this area was also the original site of Connecticut Hospice, an institution of some note, which has since transitioned to become the Monastery of the Glorious Cross—a semi-cloistered community of Benedictine nuns. Also located on Burban Drive is St. Elizabeth of Hungary Roman Catholic Church, which made its way here after originally being situated in Short Beach. A journey, one might say, of spiritual relocation.

Indian Neck

Indian Neck occupies the south-central portion of Branford, a peninsula that juts into, and is consequently dominated by, Branford Harbor. This community is home to both Foote Park and John B. Sliney Memorial Park, providing green spaces for public enjoyment.

In the early to mid-20th century, Indian Neck was a rather vibrant tourist destination. Trolley service extended down to Sybil and Limewood avenues, fostering a bustling commercial area. This included establishments such as Harry's General Store, Bud's Bait Box, and on Limewood Ave, the Waverly Inn, Madelyn's Restaurant, Surfside Restaurant, a general news, comics, candy, and variety store named Lounsberry's, and the ever-popular Dairy Joy Ice Cream. Much of the area's charm derived from its abundance of second homes, which ensured the beach remained a lively hub of activity. However, as the area transitioned to a more year-round residential community, these commercial businesses, with the inexorable march of time, slowly began to close their doors. The Montasco Inn, long owned and operated by the Poirot family, was regrettably torn down in the 1960s. The landmark Waverly Inn, a symbol of the era, succumbed to fire in the early 1970s, a definitive end to its resort-era glory.

Today, Indian Neck – Pine Orchard Volunteer Fire Company 9 stands as a testament to local community service. In a more recent development, February 2015 saw the opening of Stony Creek Brewery here, a nod to the nearby Stony Creek area of Branford, bringing a modern craft beverage industry to the historic peninsula. [12]

Pine Orchard

Pine Orchard is nestled between the communities of Indian Neck and Stony Creek. This area is notably home to the exclusive Pine Orchard Yacht and Country Club (P.O.Y.C.C.), suggesting a certain demographic. Educational institutions in the vicinity include the Pine Brook School (formerly Wightwood School), a private establishment, and Francis Walsh Intermediate School, serving the town's younger population. Among its more prominent residents are Dr. Nicholas Perricone, known for his work in dermatology, and Edward M. Kennedy Jr., a state senator with a notable political lineage.

Stony Creek

[[File:Stony Creek Post Office.jpg|thumb|Stony Creek Post Office]]

Stony Creek, a distinctive shore front neighborhood, anchors the southeastern section of Branford. It centers around a picturesque harbor on Long Island Sound, cultivating an ambiance that one might genuinely describe as a small seaside village. This community is an eclectic blend of various architectural styles, dotted with a scattering of small retail establishments, sandwich shops, art galleries, and an antique shop—a curated selection for those seeking something beyond the mundane.

Just offshore from Stony Creek lies the truly intriguing archipelago known as the Thimble Islands. These islands are, to put it plainly, a jumble of glacial rocks. They vary in size from a substantial 17 acres (6.9 ha) down to mere stepping-stone dimensions, guarding the mouth of the harbor. Despite their modest physical stature, they are disproportionately rich in local history and lore, providing a perpetually pleasant backdrop for a summer cruise.

Stony Creek is also the proud home of the all-male Stony Creek Fife & Drum Corps, a traditional musical group, and the only all-female fife and drum corps, the Totoket Ancient Fife & Drum Corps. It seems even in archaic musical traditions, gender equality can find a foothold.

A large quarry in Stony Creek remains actively operational, continuing to supply the distinctive pink-orange Stony Creek granite. This particular stone has been famously used in several iconic structures, including the base of the Statue of Liberty and the newest House Office Building in Washington, D.C. More recently, granite from Stony Creek was selected for use in New York City's Statue of Liberty museum, which opened its doors in May 2019. However, it is important to clarify a common local myth: while the granite is indeed renowned, the claim that it supplied the Brooklyn Bridge is contradicted by historical records. The granite blocks for the Brooklyn Bridge were actually quarried and shaped on Vinalhaven Island, Maine, under contract with the Bodwell Granite Company, and subsequently transported to New York by schooner. [13] A detail that, for some, is an inconvenient truth.

Stony Creek Fire and Rescue Company 5 is also located here, ensuring the community's safety.

Short Beach

Short Beach is a residential beach neighborhood situated at the western extremity of town, positioned just south of Branford Hills. This area is characterized by numerous small private islands, the most substantial of which is Kelsey Island. Kelsey Island hosts a handful of modest cabins, primarily utilized as summer homes. It is crucial to note that public access to Kelsey Island is restricted (beyond public tidal zones), and trespassing is strictly prohibited.

Short Beach shares half of the renowned Shore Line Trolley Museum, an institution dedicated to preserving the history of electric railway transportation, with neighboring East Haven. The community is also home to the Yale Corinthian Yacht Club (YCYC), the Short Beach Union Church, and three distinct parks, with Pardee Park being the largest. With a population of approximately 1,500 residents, Short Beach hosts an annual three-day festival at the close of summer, aptly named Short Beach Days.

A unique and somewhat perplexing feature of Short Beach is its resident population of monk parakeets, often affectionately referred to as the "Short Beach Parrots." These non-native birds have established a thriving, if unexpected, presence in the area. Even the local wildlife here prefers to be an invasive species.

The Short Beach Hose, Hook and Ladder Company 4, established in 1911, diligently serves this community.

Hotchkiss Grove

Hotchkiss Grove, a community nestled between Indian Neck and Pine Orchard, encompasses First through Ninth avenues, alongside segments of Hotchkiss Grove Road, Seaview Avenue, and Dudley Avenue. The community features a modest beach, suitable for swimming and the mooring of small boats, complete with a swimming raft for those who venture further into the water. Bay Point Park, colloquially known as "The Point," is a grassy peninsula extending into the water, where a small pier once stood. Residents of Hotchkiss Grove occasionally have the privilege of renting The Point for private gatherings and parties.

A highlight of the community calendar is Hotchkiss Grove Day, an annual event held on the first Saturday of August. The day commences with a spirited costume parade, followed by games and prize distributions. The afternoon transitions to beach games, where children compete, alongside a clam bar offering local delicacies and live music. The festivities culminate in the evening with dinner, a raffle, an auction, and dancing. Historically, Hotchkiss Grove began as a summer community, characterized by charming beach cottages and unpaved dirt roads. However, over the past two decades, a significant transformation has occurred, with most of these seasonal cottages being converted into permanent, year-round residences. A testament to the enduring appeal of the shoreline, even when the seasons change.

Other communities

Beyond these more defined communities, Branford is dotted with an array of minor communities and distinct geographic features, each contributing to the town's intricate tapestry. These include Branford Point, Brocketts Point, Brushy Plain, Cherry Hill, Clam Island, Double Beach, Goodsell Point, Granite Bay, Haycock Point, High Island, Jepson Island, Johnson's Point, Kidd's Island, Killam's Point, Lanphier Cove, Little Pumpkin, Money Island, Pawson Park, Potato Island, Rockland Park, Sagamore Cove, Scotch Cap, Sumac Island, Summer Island, Sunset Beach, the aforementioned Thimble Islands, Todd's Hill, Vedder's Point, and Wheeler Island. Each name, a whisper of local history or geographic peculiarity.

Industry

The industrial landscape of Branford has undergone a significant metamorphosis, reflecting broader economic shifts. The once-prominent Malleable Iron Fittings Company, a cornerstone of earlier industry, has been largely demolished, its former site now repurposed for residential housing. This transformation signals a clear pivot in the town's economic focus.

Today, Branford is recognized for its burgeoning high-technology and pharmaceutical sectors. Among these are 454 Life Sciences, a company at the forefront of genetic sequencing, and Durata Therapeutics, a pharmaceutical entity dedicated to the development and commercialization of differentiated therapeutic solutions. Durata’s focus is on providing advanced patient care in infectious disease and acute illnesses, a rather specific and critical niche.

Also maintaining offices and manufacturing facilities in Branford is American Polyfilm, Inc., a specialist in the production of high-quality polyurethane film. This versatile material finds application across a diverse range of industries, including industrial and high-performance fabrics, as well as medical products. In the realm of manufacturing, Wilson Arms operates within Branford, a company specializing in the production of small-caliber rifles and their associated parts. The town also hosts two substantial glazing and window construction firms, Massey's Plate Glass & Aluminum and Cherry Hill Glass, contributing to the built environment. Furthermore, Autac, Inc., which has been manufacturing high-quality coiled cords since 1947, maintains a long-standing industrial presence in Branford. The transition from heavy industry to specialized manufacturing and knowledge-based sectors is evident, a predictable evolution in the pursuit of modern prosperity.

Education

The educational infrastructure of Branford serves the community's younger population, preparing them for whatever the future deems necessary. The schools within Branford include:

Branford High School
Francis Walsh Intermediate School
John B. Sliney School
Linda Chipkin School
Mary R. Tisko School
Mary T. Murphy School
East Shoreline Catholic Academy

These institutions collectively provide a comprehensive educational pathway from elementary grades through high school, encompassing both public and private options.

Transportation

The arteries of modern existence, otherwise known as transportation networks, are well-established in Branford. The primary thoroughfare traversing the town is Interstate 95, a major highway that relentlessly snakes along the eastern coast of the United States.

For those who prefer rail travel, the town is equipped with a station serving the Shore Line East commuter rail line, which connects New London to New Haven. It’s an efficient, if sometimes crowded, means of moving people from one place to another.

In a more industrial vein, the Branford Steam Railroad serves a specific purpose, transporting quarried trap rock from North Branford to barges awaiting at Juniper Point, near Stony Creek. For air travel, the Tweed New Haven Regional Airport is conveniently situated just 3 miles (5 km) west of Branford, offering regional connections.

Major roads

West Main Street/North Main Street/East Main Street (U.S. Route 1): This historic route consistently parallels I-95 and serves as a vital commercial and residential artery. Main Street itself cuts directly through the town center, acting as its backbone.
Connecticut Route 142 (Short Beach Road/Shore Drive): This route specifically serves the community of Short Beach in the southwestern part of the town, providing essential access to its coastal neighborhoods.
Connecticut Route 146: A designated scenic route, Route 146 winds through various coastal communities in the southeastern part of the town before extending into Guilford. Notably, this route runs in close proximity to the Amtrak/Shore Line East railroad tracks, offering parallel views of both road and rail.
Cedar Street/Brushy Plain Road: This road extends from Main Street northward into North Branford. The segment north of Route 1 is designated as an unsigned state road (SR 740). This particular stretch is characterized by a significant number of condominium complexes, either directly on SR 740 or accessed via its side roads. Mary T. Murphy Elementary School, Veterans Memorial Park, and Lidyhites Pond are also situated along the section known as Brushy Plain Road. The road itself is infamous for its winding path over a local elevation popularly, and perhaps ominously, known as "Snake Hill," a site that has been associated with numerous traffic accidents. A testament to the predictable folly of human driving habits.

Culture

Humans, in their infinite wisdom and predictable patterns, find ways to gather and celebrate. Branford is no exception.

One of the most significant annual events in Branford is the Branford Festival, which predictably takes place on Father's Day weekend. This community gathering features a familiar assortment of food vendors, local crafts, children's rides, live music performances, and, for the masochistically inclined, a 5-mile (8.0 km) road race. It’s a comprehensive display of local enthusiasm.

In a more sedate, yet equally vital, cultural tradition, an annual book sale is organized each autumn on the Branford Green. [14][15] This event serves the commendable purpose of raising essential funds for the town library, a reminder that some pursuits are more enduring than others.

Notable people

A collection of individuals who, for various reasons, managed to escape complete anonymity, originating from or significantly associated with Branford:

Jacob M. Appel, a novelist and bioethicist [16]
Bob Barthelson, a former major league baseball player [17]
King Donovan (1918–1987), an actor of stage and screen
Skylar Dunn, an American actress
Bob DuPuy, former president and chief operating officer of Major League Baseball (MLB), a position of considerable influence
Selma Engel-Wijnberg (1922–2018), a survivor of the Holocaust
Todd English, a celebrity chef, known for his culinary endeavors
Ron Glick, a soccer player
Rutherford Hayes, grandfather of President Rutherford B. Hayes, was born in Branford in 1756 [18][19]. A historical footnote, but a footnote nonetheless.
Levi Jackson, notable as the first African American captain of an Ivy League Football team during his tenure at Yale University
Edward Kennedy Jr. (Ted), a State Senator and son of the late United States Senator Ted Kennedy [20]
Henry Lee, a prominent forensic scientist, whose work has often intersected with high-profile cases
Herman Lubinsky, the influential owner of Savoy Records
Henry Ludington, father of the remarkable American Revolutionary War figure Sybil Ludington
Beauty McGowan, an MLB baseball player
Norodom Yuvaneath, the first born son of Norodom Sihanouk of Cambodia, an unexpected international connection
Mike Olt, an MLB baseball player
Henry Bradley Plant, a significant railroad magnate of his era
Ollie Sax, an MLB baseball player
Joseph Stamler (1911–1988), a distinguished New Jersey Superior Court judge and professor at Rutgers University [21]
Thomas Steitz, a recipient of the 2009 Nobel laureate in chemistry [22]
Beverly Willis (1928–2023), a pioneering American architect and designer, notably responsible for the San Francisco Ballet Building [23][24]

Sister City

In a gesture of historical camaraderie, or perhaps a perpetual reminder of its origins, Branford maintains a sister city relationship with Brentford, England. It seems some ties, however distant, are not easily severed.