East Haddam First Selectman's Message
Mark B. Walter, First Selectman

Welcome to East Haddam

East Haddam is enriched with history, art, natural beauty and rural character. East Haddam inhabits 56.6 square miles of rolling countryside dotted with old farmsteads, lakes, handsome state parks, and quaint neighborhoods. The majestic Connecticut River, the town's western boundary, brought settlers and commerce to this area. Historic homes, old stone walls that wind through the woods, post and beam barns and early American buildings are a testament to the early life of a trading and farming town.

Within East Haddam, the Village of Moodus was the site of a dozen water powered textile mills during the nineteenth century and the home to the eastern European immigrants who worked them. Later, people seeking refuge from city life flocked to summer resorts in Moodus, several of which continue in business to this day. Moodus is named for its famed Moodus Noises, strange audible rumblings that are seismic in origin and that figure prominently in Native American lore.

East Haddam is also the home to the headwaters of the Eightmile River, which runs through a greenway of protected open space. The Devil's Hopyard State Park protects the Eightmile River as it tumbles over a rushing waterfall and through a hemlock gorge. The Salmon River borders the town to the north and runs along Machimoodus State Park place of the noises. Three lakes, Bashan Lake, Moodus Reservoir and Lake Hayward, provide recreation and scenic beauty to all who visit. East Haddam's woodland and winding country roads beckon to those who want to hark back to a simpler time.

East Haddam also supports two business districts, East Haddam Village and Moodus Center, home to numerous restaurants and shops as well as the famed Goodspeed Opera House. So come and visit East Haddam and enjoy the ambiance, the slow pace, and you will know why people keep coming back! I am here to answer any of your questions and invite your calls to (860) 873-5020 and/or your email to admin@easthaddam.org.

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Business Leaders Message

When people think of East Haddam, they may first think of our natural beauty, our State Parks or of the Connecticut River. But, we have much more to offer than just our looks! East Haddam has some great locally owned businesses as well. Recently, there has been a greater effort to create a more business friendly environment. The East Haddam Economic Development Commission (EHEDC) has been vocal supporters of new and existing businesses. The EHEDC promotes a free website and listings of local business can be found here: www.easthaddam.net. It also provides a calendar, where you can find local happenings around town. Recently, they have also begun to sponsor free quarterly advertisement, for registered businesses in our local town newsletter, East Haddam Events Magazine. Our own business ombudsman Melissa Ziobron is also available to discuss your business concerns, please contact her at edevcoordinator@easthaddam.net.

Residents of East Haddam are used to driving... our town encompasses 57 square miles! But, we have businesses right here waiting to serve you, so stop driving and shop local! We boast the best local hardware store in Middlesex County! Stop in and grab free popcorn and a cup of coffee while buying your paint, grain or dish soap. Need a gift? Stop in East Haddam Village and check out our local bookstore or clothing shop. Need something personalized? We have it right here in Moodus! While there, pick up your prescriptions, magazines or birthday card. Hungry? Our friendly grocery store has everything you need and our great restaurants are eager to serve you. Round of golf? We boast two great golf courses, both of whom support East Haddam's civic organizations. Entertainment? Catch a Broadway show or stop and visit a museum. Along the way, visit a local produce stand, antique shop or the holistic lending library at the local salon!

East Haddam is a great destination for a visit, but it is also home to a number of great businesses and their owners. Stick around and shopsupport your neighbors and friends. Our businesses employ East Haddam residents and every dollar you spend here stays here! Green living doesn't get greener than shopping where you live. Save time, save money and support our businesses that do some much to support our community!

Town Information

Population: 9232
Size:  54 sq. miles
Government:  First Selectman/Town Meeting
Med. Household Income:  $77,315

Click to see most recent Events Magazine for this town.

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