Waterbury is a city located on the Naugatuck River, about 33 miles southwest of Hartford and 77 miles northeast of New York City. Waterbury has a population of about 107,000 people. The summers in Waterbury tend to be quite mild, with average summer temperatures in the high 60s but it can reach the 80s. The winters are very cold and Waterbury gets an average annual snowfall of 39 inches. Waterbury, Connecticut is a city that is filled with diverse neighborhoods, and each tends to have its own ethnic makeup. There are clusters of shops in each neighborhood. Those moving to Waterbury can expect to find neighborhoods that are fiercely proud and where they pride themselves on watching out for one another.
Economy:
The median household income for Waterbury is quite a bit lower than the state average. The cost of living is quite a bit higher there than the national average. Unemployment there is 13.9 percent. But due to its location, within driving distance of both Boston and New York City, Waterbury does enjoy affordable housing and a skilled workforce. Having worked hard to attract new business and industry, the city is now home to Les-Care Kitchens, Voltarc Technologies, Webster Financial and QSend Technologies.
History:
The first permanent settlement was in 1677. The settlement was named Waterbury in 1686 when the town was accepted in the Connecticut Colony. Growth here was very slow until the beginning of the 19th century, when brass began to be manufactured here with technology taken from the British. Waterbury was incorporated in 1853 and soon became known as the ‘brass capital of the world.' Waterbury also became famous for its clock-making, including the famous $1 Ingersoll pocket watch. During World War II, Waterbury became essential to the cause, producing tons of munitions and brass fittings. Waterbury Clock (which later became Timex) began production of mechanical time fuses for the air force. Following the war, however, times got tough in Waterbury and it has been working hard to attract business and industry.
Tourism:
Waterbury is a wealth of history. It has worked diligently to preserve its historic buildings and areas. The city's most prominent landmark is the Union Square Clock tower built in 1909. The Apothecary Building was built in 1893. The Carrie Welton Fountain was dedicated in 1888. The Civil War Soldier's Monument was dedicated in 1884. The grand Hotel Elton was built in 1905. Built is 1857, the Waterbury Clock Company building is a historical landmark. The Timexpo Museum is dedicated to the history of the Timex Watch Company. The Mattatuck Museum houses an extensive collection of arts and culture from the area.