For those that live in southern Fairfield County have you ever wondered where and how far Route 8 the highway continues as it heads north? Well the answer lays in the town of Winsted, though officially Winchester. Confused, well let me explain. Like most of you, I have heard name Winsted more then Winchester in my lifetime. As it turns out, the name Winsted has little bit of Winchester and neighboring Barkhamsted in its name. This is because it is the business center for both towns. Hence the name, Winsted. In the Winsted part of Winchester is where everything comes together. This is where major state roads, Route 8 and 44 come together.This is also where both the Still and Mad Rivers merge. Interesting names for rivers, don't you think? The interest in this area doesn't stop here. Along, the Mad River and just south of Main Street(Route 44) you can find the Prospect Street Rail Trail. This former railroad, is now a walking trail for residents and visitors. The path has plaques along it's sides that explains how the great flood of 1955 destroyed the railroad and almost decimated that town. Where the tracks once where, one can walk and look back on the history of the town while getting some excercise in. On the norther part of Main Street you will find an old historic theater, antque shops and many resturants. This side of Main Street survived the flood of that day and is a testament to the strenght of this town. Did you also know that Winsted is one of the great UFO windows of our country, due to the many UFO Sightings from 1967 to 1977. Also, if you ever get a chance please look up or google,The Wildman of Winsted. On a more serious note if one heads to Winchester, you need to check out the Soilders Monument and Memorial State Park. This Civil War Monument, located on Crown Street is located on a hill and stands over the town. The park and monument serve as reminders to the many men and women that fought and served in our country's civil war. As for for Route 8, well the highway may end here but the road continues north and heads for Mass Line. Don't let that stop you from visiting Winsted though, or if you wish Winchester. The strength and history of the town will stop you in your tracks, even if the tracks have left town.
