When any Connecticut Resident thinks of Essex, most of us think of the popular Essex Train Boat Ride that takes us up and down our Connecticut River. Also, we might possible think of getting a bite to eat at the Historic Griswold Inn located in it's downtown. Or we just might visit the town's annual Eagle Festival held during the winter months. Did you know though, that Essex Connecticut was once the sight of a mini Pearl Harbor? Most of us probably don't know the real story. The story goes that during the year 1814, while during the War of 1812, the British successfully attacked the shoreline of Essex. Troops from Britian parked their large boats in Long Island just off of Old Saybrook. They then paddled up river in smaller boats to the town's shoreline. When they arrived they destroyed close to 30 American Sea Vessels. The good news is that our side did not suffer any fatalities. At the time this was considered the biggest loss the United States Navy had ever suffered. Who knew it..wow!!! This history does not stop there though with Essex. Ivoryton, one of town's villages is host to the oldest supporting summer theater in America. The Ivoryton Playhouse has hosted plays for over 70 years, with the likes of Marlon Brando and Katherine Hepburn working it's stage. Just recently I saw the play, I'm Connecticut, at the Playhouse and what a treat it was. The play's theme was directed on how boring Connecticut can be sometimes. I beg to differ on this point and I am sure the people of Essex will back me.
Click here for information on my book, "The Signs of Connecticut," a chronicle of those familiar blue signs that have the names of Connecticut's towns on them.
