Farmington Eyes Status As Historical/Cultural Hub In CT

FARMINGTON,CT — Looking to nearby Wethersfield, the Town of Farmington is hoping to create two cultural centers very similar to Historic Old Wethersfield.

And at their last meeting, the Farmington Town Council voted unanimously to authorize the town's economic development board to begin the process to create both the Farmington Cultural District and the Unionville Cultural District.

Such districts are seen as tourist-friendly, historical hubs where visitors can see local historical sites, arts events/attractions and be able to access them all in pedestrian-friendly means.

In discussing and approving the effort last week, the council, along with local economic development officials, pointed to Old Wethersfield and the Bristol Cultural District as examples.

Rose Ponte, Farmington's EDC director, and Farmington Town Manager Kathleen Blonski resoundingly endorsed the proposal.

"What the benefits are, its good to note, is it gives a distinct character to the community and improves the quality of life for residents, attracts and draws new residents and businesses to town, drives economic growth and expands the tax base, promotes tourism and increases visitation into town, supports local arts and cultural attractions to visitors," Blonski told council members July 11.

With various historical sites and attractions, like the Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington sees itself as being a historically significant community and it wants to share that notion with outsiders to improve the town's quality of life.

"I think its a great idea. It's a great initiative for the EDC," Blonski said. "I think we have such a great cultural scene in both Unionville and Farmington. It seems like its gathering a lot of support from different community members."

Farmington Councilman Keith Vibert especially praised efforts to create a separate district for the Unionville neighborhood.

Unionville's history dates back to the 1820s and 1830s, when it became a leading commercial center fueled by Farmington River canal traffic.

Canals, prior to the proliferation of railroads, were main means for merchants to transport good over mass distances.

"I think long-time residents of Unionville will appreciate having a separate historical district too. There is a separate, unique history to Unionville. It's a seprate, sort of, vibe," Vibert said of the two, separate districts. "They're both great, but it will be nice to have both."

Added Ponte on Unionville: "They have quite enough to do their own little district."

Ponte said, now that the town's top elected body has endorsed the proposal, the Farmington EDC will apply to and work with the Greater Hartford Arts Council for the establishment Farmington and Unionville Cultural District.

Part of that process, she said, includes forming advisory committees.

In time, if all goes well in due time, these two historical cultural districts could be as well-known in local historical circles as Old Wethersfield.

"I think its a great idea. I'm very excited about this," said Farmington Coucilperson Rafeena Bacchus Lee.

For the minutes of the July 11 Farmington Town Council meeting, click on this link.

For more information on Historic Unionville in Farmington, click on this link.

For more information on the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, click on this link.

For more information on Connecticut-designated Cultural Districts, click on this link.