Nestled in between New York State to its west and Candlewood Lake to Its east lays the town of New
Fairfield. Like the name suggest, the early settlers did come from Fairfield here in Connecticut. Most
towns in Connecticut that start with t...he word new are named after towns in England. The town though
is really not that new, because it was incorporated around 1740/41. Candlewood Lake and Squantz Pond
both in New Fairfield, have history to them and offer refuge and recreation to the town and vacationers.
Candlewood Lake actually is man-made and was built in 1928. The building of lake commenced when
engineers flooded parts of New Fairfield. Many roads, buildings and town buildings were actually not
removed and succumbed to the waters. One can actually scuba dive in the lake these days and look back
on the town's history. The lake was built to use its waters to generate electricity for C.L.P. These days
the lake also is used as a tourist destination by the locals and even some from New York State.
Candlewood Lake does share it shorelines with four other towns and is Connecticut's largest lake.
Squantz Pond which is just to the west of Candlewood Lake is shared by both New Fairfield and
Sherman. Again another tourist destination complete with swimming, fishing, hiking and boating.
Squantz Pond State Park which has many of these amenities is completely in New Fairfield. The name
Squantz comes from Chief Squantz of the former Schaghtichoke Tribe that use to live in the area. The
founders of both New Fairfield and Sherman were able to secure a deal from the Chief to claim what
was originally called the lower and upper 7 miles. The deal almost did not go through, as the chief died
before the deal was sealed. The chief's sons gave the settlers a hard time, but eventually sold the land.
New Fairfield is home to one of the more unique galleries and schools in the state. The Sculpture Barn is
a gallery hosts a wide spectrum of visual art exhibits that are made from wood, metal and other organic
material. Most of the sculptures are outside on the grounds. The sculptures are from the famous and
not so famous artist. One can also enroll in the school that is stationed here and choose your own
organic, geometric figurative to work on. You are unlimited here and can design something that has
never been made before. There is no other gallery like this in our state and is definitely off the beaten
path. Sandwiched between New York State and two historic bodies of water is New Fairfield,
Connecticut. This is one sandwich you should take a bite of soon and then go for a swim.
http://www.sculpturebarn.com/
