Putnam, Connecticut
A Brief About Putnam, Connecticut

Nestled in the heart of New England is the charming town of Putnam, Connecticut. Putnam, CT is a town in Windham County. Once an important New England Mill Town, incorporated in the late 1800s, Putnam, Connecticut has transformed into a lively and thriving community.

With its quaint architecture and beautiful green spaces, it’s easy to see why this New England town has become a popular destination for visitors from Rhode Island and beyond.

Art galleries and unique local shops line the streets, offering visitors a chance to experience the creative spirit that permeates throughout this charming town. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or an exciting day trip, Putnam is the perfect destination for anyone looking to soak up some New England charm.

mark tetreault headshot

Mark Tetreault II
Associate
RE/MAX Bell Park Realty

610 Hartford Pike
Killingly, CT 06241

(860) 377-2595

The History Of Putnam, Connecticut

Putnam is a town in Connecticut and was incorporated in 1855 located in northeast corner of Connecticut. The history of Putnam, CT, begins in the 1700s when the town was known as Aspinock. During this time, the town was a small agricultural community where the people sustained themselves with farming activities and basic trade.

The town was also home to several mills, and the manufacturing business was booming. The mills were used for different products such as linen fabric, gunpowder, and paper. That era saw a dramatic boom in the town’s population, and by the early 1800s, more than 2,000 people called Putnam home.

As the industrial revolution progressed, Putnam became a vital hub for the textile industry. The town was home to several textile mills that produced mostly woolen yarns, cotton duck fabrics, and satinets. One of the most significant mills in town was the Putnam Woolen Company founded in 1841. The company remained open for over a century, and it played an outstanding role in the town’s economy. Visitors to the town can still see the remnants of these mills today, which offer an insight into the town’s rich industrial history.

Another notable aspect of Putnam’s history is how it played a role during the American Revolutionary War. The town was an important hub for war supplies, and it saw significant troop movements. During the war, Putnam was used as a base for recruitment drives, and it became a crucial center for intelligence operations. The Town Hall in the town center is a striking building built-in 1823 and was once used as a hospital during the Civil War.

The Victorian age marked another significant period in Putnam’s history. The town’s wealth from the industrial revolution and the railroad enabled growth and prosperity throughout the town. Railroads helped move products, enabling new productions methods and new markets, and with its growth, many Victorians stepped up in the community’s leadership. Wealthy residents commissioned large “Queen Ann” style homes, which are still seen throughout the town today.

The in-town public school system covers Preschool through 12th grade which we will be discussing below in greater detail as well as new municipal complex houses town offices, library, historical society, and community rooms.

Amazing Restaurants Around Putnam, Connecticut
The Stomping Ground
132 Main St., Putnam, CT 06260
The Crossings Restaurant & Brew Pub
45 Main Street, Putnam, CT 06260
Elizabeth's Farmhouse
85 Canal Street, ​Putnam, CT 06260
Black Dog Bar & Grille
146 Park Rd., Putnam, CT 06260
The Courthouse Bar & Grille
121 Main Street, Putnam, CT 06260
Things To Do Around Putnam, Connecticut

providing transportation

Visit the Putnam River Trail

For those seeking a beautiful and peaceful outdoor experience, the Putnam River Trail is a must-visit. This scenic trail meanders along the Quinebaug River, offering breathtaking views of rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and lush trees. Hikers, bikers, and joggers can enjoy the tranquil trail throughout the year, or take a break at one of the picnic areas for a relaxing lunch break.

Shop at the Antique Marketplace and More

Putnam is famous for its antique shops, and for good reason. The town is dotted with a variety of antique markets, each offering its own unique collection of treasures. From rare books and antique furniture to vintage records and jewelry, there is something for everyone here. Make sure to stop by the Putnam Antiques Marketplace, which is the largest of its kind in New England.

Explore the Air Line State Park Trail

Another scenic trail to explore in Putnam is the Air Line State Park Trail. This trail is built along a former railway line, runs through a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and farmlands. The trail offers numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. It is also popular among snowmobilers and cross-country skiers in the winter months, making it a year-round attraction.

Attend a Cultural Event

Putnam is home to a vibrant arts community, which organizes a variety of cultural events throughout the year. From live music concerts in the town’s square to theater performances and art exhibits, there is always something happening in Putnam. A popular annual event is the Wine, Food, and Music Festival, which features local vendors showcasing their products and musicians from across the region.

putnam

Enjoy Kayaking on the Quinebaug River

For those seeking an adventurous outdoor experience, kayaking on the Quinebaug River is an excellent option. Several local outfitters offer kayaking tours that take visitors down the river and through the beautiful landscapes of Putnam. Kayakers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including otters, beavers, and herons. This activity is a wonderful way to explore the scenic beauty of the town from a different perspective.

Putnam, Connecticut
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Education Around Putnam, Connecticut

If you’re looking to enrich your knowledge, skills, and expertise towards personal or professional growth, Putnam, CT has many educational opportunities to offer. Putnam is a town located in northeastern Connecticut, home to many reputable schools, colleges, and universities. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a lifelong learner, Putnam’s vibrant educational scene provides diverse learning experiences, which can lead to more significant career opportunities, personal fulfillment, and community development. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the educational opportunities in and around Putnam and how they can benefit you.

Schools Around Putnam, CT

Putnam Public School System is a renowned district in the state of Connecticut. It serves students from preschool to grade twelve. The district offers various programs, including special education, English language learner, and gifted and talented services. Putnam boasts of excellent student-teacher ratios, individualized teaching approach, advanced technology, and safe facilities.

Apart from Putnam Public Schools, there are other private institutions that offer quality education, such as the Putnam Science Academy, a boarding school that specializes in STEM education. Other notable nearby schools include Pomfret School, and Woodstock Academy.

Colleges and Universities

There are several reputable colleges and universities near Putnam, Connecticut. These institutions offer a wide range of majors and degrees that can lead you to your dream career. The University of Connecticut is located about an hour’s drive from Putnam.

Eastern Connecticut State University is another highly sought-after institution, located in Willimantic, CT. The university offers more than 40 majors, minors, and concentrations, including business, education, social sciences, and creative arts.

Cultural and Historical Education

Putnam, Connecticut has a rich cultural and historical heritage that can be explored through various educational programs. Willimantic is near Putnam and is home to the Connecticut Eastern Railroad Museum, which offers exhibits, tours, and train rides. The museum aims to promote the educational and historical aspects of the railroad and its impacts on society. Additionally, the Putnam History Museum showcases the town’s historical artifacts, photos, and documents.

Putnam and then part of its surrounding area offer a variety of educational opportunities that can benefit anyone seeking to improve their lives academically, culturally, or professionally. From public schools to reputable colleges and universities, from continuing education courses to cultural and historical programs, there is something for everyone in Putnam. If you’re ready to take the first step towards your educational journey, consider exploring the opportunities Putnam has to offer.

Community Happenings Around Putnam, Connecticut

Living in Putnam is a unique experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve lived here all your life, you can’t help but notice the strong sense of community that permeates through the town. From the bustling downtown area to the peaceful countryside, there’s a tangible feeling of belongingness and togetherness that creates a special place for residents and visitors alike. ne, we’ll explore some of the reasons why the community around Putnam is so unique and inviting.

water dam

Vibrant Downtown Scene

Putnam’s downtown area is one of the town’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The wide range of small businesses, such as specialty shops, restaurants, and galleries, all offer a unique experience that you can’t find in chain stores or shopping centers. As a community, we have come together to make the downtown area one-of-a-kind, with locally sourced goods and services that support small businesses and foster the distinct atmosphere that we are proud of. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better sense of community than that of the friendly downtown Putnam businesses.

Community Events

Throughout the year, the community of Putnam comes together to celebrate with various events. Everything from the Fourth of July fireworks, outdoor concerts, and annual festivals to smaller gatherings of community garden clubs and historical society meetings – there’s always something going on. Whether you’re a guest or a resident, these events can bring you closer to the heart of the town and its residents. This sense of togetherness is hard to come by in a bigger city, where people can feel isolated and forgotten by their community. Owning a Putnam home means becoming part of a vast network of neighbors, friends, and well-wishers.

Strong Bonds

Living in Putnam you’ll notice that people here genuinely care about their neighbors, whether they are longtime residents of the town or simply passing through, or the Putnam Police. We have created deep bonds of friendship, trust, and support, making Putnam a tight-knit community where people look out for one another. You can always find someone to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Such connections formed between fellow residents create a home environment that is a source of comfort and contentment.

Natural Beauty

The community around Putnam is rich in natural beauty, with the Quinebaug River and Putnam River Trail offering stunning views all year round. The rolling hills and wooded areas provide peaceful and idyllic escapes from the hustle of everyday life, perfect for hiking or simply relaxing amidst nature. The community has maintained these natural spaces and created specific places for residents and visitors to enjoy at their leisure, like the Putnam River Trail. Accessible and well-maintained natural spaces are a testament to the community’s efforts to preserve natural beauty while providing a way of life unique to the town.

Sense of History

Putnam, Connecticut is a community that takes pride in its history. The town can trace its roots back to the late 1700s, and much of the town has maintained its architectural and cultural legacy. There are plenty of opportunities for history enthusiasts to explore, whether it’s at the Putnam house of historical interest or the Putnam District Courthouse. The town’s residents lovingly preserve their past and ensure that it remains a central part of the community’s identity and culture.