Staples High School: Sister City

In the 1830s, Daniel Nash, a leading resident on the west side of the Saugatuck river, together with the other villagers made application to the General Assembly of Connecticut to incorporate the Town of Westport. There were those who wished to keep the name Saugatuck. The nature of the economy with it's emphasis on shipping influenced the decision. The charter for Westport was granted on May 25, 1835.

Shipping was at it's height in 1835, but there was a growing cloud on the horizon, the steam engine. The first railroad track was opened for service on December 27, 1848, and crossed the river just above the Narrows where a ferry had crossed since 1764. The second track was laid in 1853, but not until the 1890's were the present four tracks completed.

The Civil War made demands on the town. The 17th Volunteer Regiment was largely recruited from the townspeople. Some men joined the 28th Regiment. The town contributed supplies, particularly onions, the towns most notable products. These were pickled and used to ward off scurvy.

By the end of the 19th Century, industry had taken a big surge forward. There were mills and factories and Kemper's tannery (the present Playhouse). Some are still operating. By this time Westport had become known as a resort. Phipps Hotel on Beachside avenue was popular with New Yorkers.

Around 1910 artists "discovered" Westport. There followed an influx of creative people from many field who made this area thie permanent home. In 10 years the population doubled to 8,000. Since World War II the population floodgates opened, more than tripling the previous high by 1970. Westport has become on of the affluent suburbs of New York City, culterally minded, artistically inclined, with a bit on international polish, yet it still retains the old New England charm on many of its streets.

The thousands of artists, writers and even movie stars taking residence in Westport create a unique and dynamic cultural atmosphere. Intertwined between our posh stores and eloquent Madison Avenue boutiques are still "mom and pop" shops remniscant of times far gone. One can still stroll down Main street and witness gatherings of people, young and old, strong and small, discussing issues ranging from the plight of Ethiopa to the result of last week's football game.

Although thousands of new citizens are coming to Westport every few months, and the old Cadillacs are being replaced by more and more Porsche's, the same spirit and dedication embedded in Daniel Nash as he founded the town more than 150 years ago can be seen in the faces of every Westport resident.