Interesting and Fun Facts About Hartford - Delamar Hotels (2024)

As the capital of Connecticut and the third-largest city in the state, Hartford is among the oldest cities in the United States. As the seat of state government and as a hub for employment, Hartford is also the center for arts and entertainment in the region. Here are 10 things you might not have known about Connecticut’s capital city.

1) Hartford is the World’s Insurance Capital

Hartford is home to the headquarters of more than 100 insurance companies, including United Healthcare, Lincoln National Insurance, The Hartford, Travelers Insurance, Aetna, and many others. This has led to Connecticut having the highest number of insurance professionals per capita in the U.S.

2) Home of the oldest public art museum in the US

Since opening its doors in 1844, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is the oldest public art museum in the United States. The museum is home to almost 50,000 works of art, spanning 5,000 years and contains everything from antique European art to American art from the 1600s through today.

The castle-like museum is located at 600 Main Street in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. With over 75,000 square feet of exhibition space, it is also the largest art museum in Connecticut.

3) Oldest continuously published newspaper

The Hartford Courant is not only the largest daily newspaper in the U.S. state of Connecticut, but it is also the oldest continuously published newspaper in the United States. The first edition of the paper was published on On October 29, 1764, by New Haven printer Thomas Green. It consisted of just 4 pages printed on 8 ½ x 14 ½ paper but has now grown to maintain a daily circulation of over 200,000.

4) Oldest publicly funded park

First conceived by the Reverend Horace Bushnell in 1854 due to a need for open public spaces, Bushnell Park is the oldest publicly funded park in the United States. Today, the park’s 37 green acres are visited by more than one million people each year and include artwork, sculpture, and play areas. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bushnell Park boasts the largest turkey oak tree in New England, with a trunk that is nearly 17 feet around.

5) The nation’s first legally married gay mayor

Pedro Segarra served as the 66th mayor of Hartford, Connecticut. In 2012, he became the nation’s first legally married gay mayor when he wed his partner of 14 years, Charlie Ortiz. At the time of his election in 2010, he was only America’s second openly gay mayor.

In support of the LGBTQ community in Connecticut and nationwide, Delamar is donating 10% from every booking through our True Colors Package to True Colors, Inc., a Hartford-based non-profit organization dedicated to recognizing and meeting the needs of sexual and gender minority youth and a producer of the largest LGBTQ youth conference in the country.

6) Site of the first witch hunt in America

30 years before the Salem witch trials, hysteria, accusations, and trials rattled Hartford in what was the nation’s first witch hunt. The Connecticut Witch Trials, also sometimes referred to as the Hartford witch trials occurred from 1647 to 1663. Eleven women and men were executed, beginning with Alice Young. Her hanging in Hartford on May 26, 1647, was the first witchcraft execution to occur in America.

Interesting and Fun Facts About Hartford - Delamar Hotels (1)

Mark Twain House and Museum, Hartford, CT.

7) Home of Mark Twain

Located in Hartford, The Mark Twain House was once home to legendary writer Samuel L. Clemens, who wrote under the name Mark Twain.

This 25-room Victorian home-turned museum is where he lived with his family from 1874 to 1891 and wrote many of his famous novels, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Prince and the Pauper, A Tramp Abroad, and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court. The house has been named “one of the ten best historic homes in the world” by National Geographic and is a must-see for anyone exploring the rich literary history of Connecticut.

8) Home to the largest hand-painted ceiling mural in the United States

Drama, the ceiling mural in Mortensen Hall at The Bushnell Performing Arts Center, is the largest hand-painted ceiling mural of its type in the United States. Measuring 187-by-40-foot, this art deco mural was created by artist Barry Faulkner and his staff of Prix de Rome artists in 1929. It features the Melpomene (Muse of Drama) as its centerpiece, surrounded by other symbols of music and drama.

Explore the Rich History of Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford has been a vital part of Connecticut’s history and story, whether it’s in the arts, government, or literacy. When you’re exploring the rich history of Hartford, be sure to book your stay at a hotel that offers a convenient home base for which to explore the city.

Delamar West Hartford brings unparalleled luxury and distinctive charm to West Hartford and the Capital Region. The hotel, located 10 minutes from downtown Hartford, offers 114 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, as well as fine dining, and a full-service luxury spa. Book your stay with us today!

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Interesting and Fun Facts About Hartford - Delamar Hotels (2024)

FAQs

What is a fun fact about Hartford CT? ›

Hartford is home to the headquarters of more than 100 insurance companies, including United Healthcare, Lincoln National Insurance, The Hartford, Travelers Insurance, Aetna, and many others. This has led to Connecticut having the highest number of insurance professionals per capita in the U.S.

When was Delamar West Hartford built? ›

Several hundred guests, including the governor and state and local officials, attended the grand opening of the Delamar West Hartford Hotel on Sept. 12, 2017.

What was Hartford known for? ›

Over time, Hartford grew to be one of the most prosperous cities in the nation, and by the late-19th century, was the wealthiest city in the country. Today, Hartford is known for the Colt Manufacturing Company, the city's ties to Mark Twain and the Stowe family, and for its critical role in the evolution of the state.

Is Hartford Connecticut a good place to live? ›

In addition to the overall grade of A-plus, for 2023 West Hartford received an A-plus in the categories of schools, health and fitness, and “good for families.” Nightlife and outdoor activities received an A, diversity and commute received an A-minus, housing and jobs were rated B-plus, and cost of living was rated B- ...

What is one interesting fact about Connecticut? ›

It is both a New England state, and neighbor to New York City and Boston. Nickname/Official Designation: "The Constitution State" was adopted by Act of the Legislature, 1959. Population: The population of Connecticut was 3,574,097 according to the 2010 U.S. Official Census.

When was the Delamar hotel built? ›

Friday, January 28th, 2022. The Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel opened in 2002, and this 82-room waterfront boutique property has been drawing visitors ever since.

When was the Hartford Marriott built? ›

Our 409 room upscale hotel has been attracting business and leisure travelers alike since 2005.

Who founded West Hartford? ›

In 1636 Reverend Thomas Hooker led a group of followers from what is now Cambridge, Massachusetts to the “Great River” and established the Hartford Colony.

What is the oldest town in CT? ›

1.
  • Greenwich, settled by the English and named, July 18, 1640, from Greenwich near London; N.Y. to Ct., transferred, 1656. ...
  • Stamford, settled in 1641; named 1642 from Stamford in Lincolnshire. ...
  • Farmington, settled in 1640; incorporated and named, Dec.

What is the nickname of Hartford? ›

Nicknamed the "Insurance Capital of the World", the city holds high sufficiency as a global city, as home to the headquarters of many insurance companies, the region's major industry.

Why is Hartford a good place to visit? ›

Lush with historical sites, artisanal eateries, flourishing parks, and a vibrant cultural scene, Hartford, Connecticut's capital city, is just waiting to be explored.

Is Hartford cheap to live? ›

The cost of living in Hartford, CT is 9% lower than the state average and 6% higher than the national average. Hartford, CT housing is 2% cheaper than the U.S average, while utilities are about 26% pricier.

Is it cheaper to live in CT? ›

The cost of living in Connecticut is 17% higher than the national average. Housing is 26% higher than the national average, while utilities are 31% higher. When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 16% higher than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 16% higher.

What is crime like in Hartford? ›

Hartford Annual Crimes
ViolentProperty
Number of Crimes5792,609
Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents)4.8021.64

What is the most interesting fact? ›

Interesting Unknown facts that you need to know
  • Hot water will turn into ice faster than cold water. ...
  • The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows. ...
  • The strongest muscle in the body is the tongue. ...
  • Ants take rest for around 8 Minutes in 12-hour period. ...
  • "I Am" is the shortest complete sentence in the English language.

What are 3 things Connecticut is famous for? ›

Connecticut is known for being the home of the famous authors Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain and the oldest newspaper in the US. It is also where the first American dictionary was written, and insurance was first sold.

What food is famous in Connecticut? ›

5 Iconic Foods In Connecticut That You Must Try
  • The Lobster Roll. No trip to New England would be complete without some fresh seafood by the shore. ...
  • Apizza. Yes, apizza, not pizza. ...
  • Steamed Cheeseburgers. Forget the greasy charred burgers! ...
  • Apple Cider. ...
  • Hot Dogs. ...
  • Book Your New England Vacation at the Delamar.

Why do people visit Connecticut? ›

Vibrant Arts & Culture. Connecticut is alive with the arts — from nationally renowned art galleries and museums to award-winning theaters and cultural events, from historical sites and major concert venues to local galleries and community fairs. Learn about the diversity of experiences Connecticut offers you.

How many rooms does Delamar West Hartford have? ›

Delamar West Hartford offers 114 rooms, a distinctive restaurant complete with garden, banquet space, meeting rooms, a luxurious spa, and much more.

Who owns the Delmar hotel? ›

Founded in Greenwich, CT in 1999, Greenwich Hospitality Group owns and operates boutique style hotels both in and outside of Connecticut.

How many rooms does Delamar Greenwich have? ›

GUEST ROOMS

The 82 rooms and suites at DELAMAR Greenwich Harbor offers unparalleled luxury and uncomplicated elegance.

What is the oldest Marriott hotel in the world? ›

Breadsall Priory, Derbyshire holds this honour, dating back to 1266. An ancient architectural arch within the hotel is a link to its monastic past, when a small group of canons would house there on visits to the resident prior from the Augustan order.

What was Marriott old name? ›

Hot Shoppes, Inc. was renamed the Marriott Corporation in 1967.

Where was the Hartford founded? ›

The Hartford was founded in 1810 in Hartford, Connecticut. A group of local merchants gathered in a Hartford inn and, with working capital of $15,000, founded the Hartford Fire Insurance Company. The company survived some of the greatest peacetime tragedies in American history.

When was Hartford the richest city? ›

Yet, Hartford was not always such an impoverished city—in fact after the Civil War it was the richest city in America. The Colt Firearms Factory, on the shores of the Connecticut River, helped “spawn the Industrial Revolution…made guns that helped the United States conquer the West and win two wars” (New York Times).

What is the Native American name for Hartford? ›

Saukiog, or as it is sometimes spelled, Sickaog or Suckiaug, was the Native American name for Hartford.

Who was Hartford named after? ›

In 1637 the settlement was named for Stone's birthplace: Hertford, England. The Fundamental Orders of Connecticut, a document that later served as a model for the U.S. Constitution, was adopted (1639) in Hartford.

What is the richest town in CT? ›

Stamford

Home to over 136,309 people, Stamford is the richest city in Connecticut. The median household income is $99,791, and the average home price is $672,000. Stamford is situated only 30 miles north of NYC, so it offers residents unparalleled access to the city.

What is the poorest town in CT? ›

Of the 128 towns in the state with available data, Storrs ranks as the poorest. The typical Storrs household earns just $23,964 a year, 71.3% less than the statewide median household income. Given the low incomes, it is not surprising that a larger than average share of residents live in poverty.

What is the abandoned city in CT? ›

Dudleytown is an abandoned settlement, located in a valley known as the Dark Entry Forest, in northwestern Connecticut in the United States, best known today as a ghost town. Due to vandalism and trespassers, the site is not open to the public.

What is Hartford slogan? ›

'Hartford Has It' has been used on banners and become more ubiquitous throughout the city.”

What is the sister city of Hartford? ›

Squares and remarkable trees mimicking the movements of the Community of Cenon. Visit Cenon's Website to learn more about Hartford's Sister City.

What is a motto of Hartford? ›

The Latin motto Post Nubila Phoebus means “After the Clouds, the Sun”.

What is the rich part of Hartford? ›

West Hartford: Though for inland and quite removed from Connecticut's Gold Coast, West Hartford is no slouch when it comes to wealth.

Which part of Hartford is nice? ›

One of the safest Hartford neighborhoods, South West is perfect for singles and young professionals who are looking to live in a quieter, more easygoing neighborhood.

What is the best area of Hartford? ›

The best area to stay in Hartford is its Historic City Center because it offers access to most of the historical attractions, transport links, nightlife, and shopping in the city. Other areas worth considering are East Hartford and West Hartford. Read on for our list of the best areas to stay in Hartford, Connecticut.

Does it snow a lot in Hartford? ›

Yearly snowfall across the state

On average, Hartford picks up 33.3 inches during the winter months. New Haven sees around 25.1 inches during the winter months.

Can you live in Hartford CT without a car? ›

There is also the Hartford Line, which runs along the 1-95 corridor through Hartford, that people use to get around the city. With plenty of places to work and live, and many green spaces and activities, lots of people even find this city pleasant to navigate without a car.

What is it like to live in Hartford? ›

Hartford is a city in Connecticut with a population of 121,562. Hartford is in Hartford County. Living in Hartford offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents rent their homes. In Hartford there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.

Are taxes high in Connecticut? ›

HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) - A report from a personal financial website said Connecticut 2nd highest tax rates in the U.S. WalletHub.com on Monday released its report called “States with the Highest & Lowest Tax Rates.”

Is Connecticut good for taxes? ›

Connecticut Tax Rates, Collections, and Burdens

Connecticut has a 6.35 percent state sales tax rate and levies no local sales taxes. Connecticut's tax system ranks 47th overall on our 2023 State Business Tax Climate Index.

Is NY expensive to live? ›

The cost of living in New York is 31% higher than the national average. Housing is 82% higher than the national average, while utilities are 2% higher. When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 14% higher than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 14% higher.

Is it safe to walk in Hartford? ›

Avoid walking at night

You are advised to avoid walking alone in any part of the city of Hartford. With the high crime levels in the city, almost everyone who lives in the city knows a person who has been stabbed, robbed, raped or killed while walking alone at night in the city.

Where to avoid in Hartford? ›

Places to Avoid in Hartford

The two main neighborhoods to avoid are Asylum Hill, west of downtown, and Clay-Arsenal, north of downtown. There are other pockets of high-crime areas, so it's smart to stick to major roads and interstates while only visiting the neighborhoods with the big tourist attractions.

Is Hartford or New Haven safer? ›

With 842 violent crimes per 100,000 people, New Haven is the second on the list of dangerous cities in Connecticut. Property crime is actually slightly higher than Hartford's, with 3,896 reported instances per 100,000 people.

Why is it called Hartford? ›

The settlement was originally called Newtown, but it was changed to Hartford in 1637 in honor of Stone's hometown of Hertford, England. Hooker also created the nearby town of Windsor in 1633. The etymology of Hartford is the ford where harts cross, or "deer crossing."

What is Connecticut's nickname facts? ›

In 1639, the Connecticut Colony wrote and adopted the Fundamental Orders. This document reflected our independent spirit and is considered by many to be the first written constitution of a democratic government. That's why Connecticut is nicknamed "The Constitution State."

Is Hartford a deer? ›

The Hartford Buck

Although it is unknown exactly when the iconic symbol first appeared as The Hartford's logo, the earliest use on record is on the 1861 policy issued to Abraham Lincoln. It depicts a hart fording (a deer crossing) a stream.

What are 2 important events in Connecticut? ›

Ringling Brothers Circus tent fire in Hartford takes 168 lives. Fair Employment Practices Act adopted outlawing job discrimination. Approximately 52,000 Connecticut men serve in Korean War. Nautilus, world's first atomic-powered submarine, launched at Groton.

What is Connecticut best known for? ›

is famous for its great universities, beautiful autumn foliage, and rich contributions to American culture, for starters. One of the original 13 colonies, CT holds a sacred place in American history as the birthplace of many American inventions, conventions, and works of art.

Is Hartford a boy or girl name? ›

Hartford is originally a surname but is becoming a popular first name for boys. This charming name is of English origin and bears the meaning “stag ford” or “deer crossing.” Stemming from Old English, Hartford proves to be a timeless choice and could be a tribute to one of the many towns and cities throughout the US.

What is the meaning of Hartford? ›

Hartford. / (ˈhɑːtfəd) / noun. a port in central Connecticut, on the Connecticut River: the state capital.

What is Connecticut original name? ›

The word Connecticut is derived from various anglicized spellings of Quinnetuket, a Mohegan-Pequot word for "long tidal river".

What do you call a person from CT? ›

According to Webster's New International Dictionary, 1993, a person who is a native or resident of Connecticut is a “Connecticuter”. There are numerous other terms in print, but not in use, such as: “Connecticotian” – Cotton Mather in 1702. “Connecticutensian” – Samuel Peters in 1781. “nu*tmegger” is sometimes used.

Why is a deer called a heart? ›

To be a "hart" was its fully mature state. A lord would want to hunt not just any deer, but a mature stag in good condition, partly for the extra meat and fat it would carry, but also for prestige.

Who founded the Hartford? ›

Our story began in 1810 – as a fire insurance company. Our first company president, Nathaniel Terry, built our company on the commitment of helping others.

What animal represents the Hartford? ›

The company logo shows a male elk (bull), which in full maturity was referred to by the medieval hunting term hart. The etymology of 'Hartford' is the ford where harts cross (deer crossing).

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