The Thimble Islands, Branford – Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Carol M. Highsmith Archive
The town of Branford, located in New Haven County, lies next to the Long Island Sound and includes the Thimble Islands. The first settlers of New Haven bought land from the area’s Native peoples in 1638 and established Branford in 1644. In the mid-19th century, the railroad helped develop Branford’s industry, and from the 1850s through the 1920s, the scenic coastline made it a popular tourist destination. Today, Branford is a suburban community with several town-maintained parks and beaches and 20 miles of coastline. It has numerous historic districts, and the Thimble Islands remain a favorite destination spot.
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