History of Gorham’s Pond
In 1640, the New Haven Colony bought title to the land where the Rippowam River meets the Long Island Sound from the Siwanoy Indians. The Eastern Boundary was the Pine Brook, or the Goodwives River, as it is known today. Settlement in earnest began around 1700, when roads were first cut into the woods.
In 1708, Richard Scofield and Thomas Youngs were granted a permit to erect a gristmill and a dam at the mouth of the Goodwives River, where the Rings End Bridge stands today.
In 1740, Captain George Gorham, a merchant and sea captain, and his wife Hannah Banks bought the mill. It remained in their family for nearly 200 years. They ran the grist mill and also traded goods up and down the coast of New England and Long Island. Next door, Nathanial Clock had a wharf and storehouse and the area became known as Clocks landing, later Ring’s End landing.
During the War of American Independence, Darien was a key stopping and re-provisioning point for many of Washington’s troops and many citizens welcomed the bedraggled soldiers.
Originally a part of Stamford, Darien became Middlesex parish in 1737 and was incorporated as Darien in 1820. In February of 1825, George Gorham's grandson, Joseph Gorham and the town of Darien entered into a 99-year lease, through which the town gained the right to construct a bridge across the dam. The town renewed its lease in 1925, agreeing to continue paying one cent per year to the Gorham Estate in exchange for maintaining the floodgates, bridge and dam. The current stone bridge was built in 1930.
In 1913, a 3 day extravaganza, “The Pageant of Darien” was held on the shore of Gorham’s Pond. It involved over 200 performers from the town populace, and a 27 piece band. Despite a lower turnout than expected, the pageant was cause of jubilation in town.
Today, Gorham’s Pond stands as a testament to the power of community action and the importance of preserving natural spaces. Its history inspires us to continue our work, ensuring that this treasured landmark can be enjoyed by generations to come.
Be Part of the Change
Join us in protecting and preserving Gorham’s Pond. Whether through volunteering, donating, or attending events, your support helps make a lasting impact on this cherished community treasure.