The neighborhoods of Old Saybrook
Many different neighborhoods make up the town of Old Saybrook.
Much of the activity in town is found in Old Saybrook Center, which extends from the Oyster River to the Connecticut River. There are large residential sections in this area, in addition to many of the town’s restaurants and shops.
Just west of the downtown area is Saybrook Manor. There is a residential district here, and also numerous businesses that sit along Boston Post Road. Saybrook Manor also has a couple of public beaches that are popular with locals.
In the south of Old Saybrook is the Knollwood neighborhood, which is all residential and marshland. Residents love it here because it’s quiet, there are beaches everywhere, and the marshes bring lovely bird and wildlife watching opportunities.
Fenwick only has a population of about 50 people and sits on Lynde Point, across South Cove from Old Saybrook Center. There is a golf course in Fenwick, in addition to the bridge that heads directly across the cove to the downtown area.
The northeast side of Old Saybrook is called Otter Cove, which is right along the Connecticut River. This area has heavy tree cover, so the homes offer great privacy for residents. There is a nature preserve here, as well.
Other communities in Old Saybrook include:
- Chalker Beach
- Cornfield Point
- Fencove
- Fenwood
- Indian Town
These areas are almost entirely residential with varying degrees of density.
Old Saybrook’s history
The area that is now Old Saybrook has a volatile history with many different inhabitants thanks to its strategic location on the mouth of the Connecticut River. Before the arrival of Europeans, the peaceful Algonquin and Nehantic tribes occupied the area. In 1590, however, the Pequots, who were known as warriors, conquered the region.
In 1614, a Dutch ship ventured into the Connecticut River, and by 1623, a colony was established. It didn’t last long, however, as, after a few months, the Dutch settlers returned to New Amsterdam.
In 1635, the English established the Saybrook Colony at this location. It wasn’t easy, though, as Old Saybrook part of the reason for the Pequot War in 1636 and 1637. The British ended up winning the war, and the colonists stayed in the region, expanding to include present-day Westbrook, Essex, and Deep River.
Old Saybrook is one of the oldest towns in Connecticut and was the first English settlement on New England’s south shore. A ton of history remains in the community, and when you buy a home in Old Saybrook, you’ll encounter it each and every day.
Activities and attractions in Old Saybrook, CT
There are beaches everywhere in Old Saybrook, including:
- Chalker Beach
- Indiantown Beach
- Cove Beach
- Great Hammock Beach
- Harveys Beach
- Plum Bank Beach
- Knollwood Beach
Harveys Beach is the most accessible thanks to its large parking lot and change rooms.
Fort Saybrook Monument Park is on the location of the original colony. There are signs throughout the park that tell the entire story, along with a boardwalk that is great for birdwatching. Saybrook Point is across the street and features outstanding views of the Connecticut River, along with a pavilion and a mini-golf course. The town’s main marina is there, as well.
For a little more outdoor activity, The Preserve is the largest unprotected coastal forest anywhere between New York and Boston. It’s 963 acres in size and offers nature trails and plenty of hiking areas.
Buying a home in Old Saybrook
Purchasing real estate in Old Saybrook, CT puts you in the heart of one of the country’s oldest settlements. The area also has all of the modern amenities you’ll need to be comfortable, in addition to beaches, forests, and ocean access.
When looking to buy a home in Old Saybrook, Compass New England can help. Our team knows this area well, so we can answer your questions and provides you insight into this historic community.
