Wethersfield Cove facts for kids
The Wethersfield Cove is a natural water area in Wethersfield, Connecticut. It was once a very busy place for local trade and travel. Imagine a place where ships came and went, carrying goods and people!
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What is Wethersfield Cove?
Wethersfield Cove is a part of the Connecticut River. It is about ten feet above the ocean's level. It's also about forty miles away from Long Island Sound. The Cove was originally an oxbow lake. This means it was once a bend in the river that got cut off. It is located very close to Old Wethersfield. This area is one of the oldest settlements in the United States.
The Cove's Exciting History
The Wethersfield Cove has a long and interesting past.
Early Ship Building
A man named Thomas Deming built a shipyard right on the banks of the Cove. In 1649, he launched a ship called the Tryall. This was the very first ship ever built in Connecticut! It was a big moment for the area.
Busy Trade with Faraway Lands
From the 1650s to the 1830s, the Cove was a hub for trade. Ships sailed between Wethersfield and the West Indies. Merchants, who were like business people, sent many things from Connecticut. They exported lumber, grain, onions, and salted meats like beef, fish, and pork. In return, they received important goods from the Caribbean. These included salt, sugar, molasses, and rum. The Cove was a vital link for these communities.
A Name from Revolutionary Times
During the time of the American Revolution, the Cove was also known by another name. People sometimes called it "Blackbird Pond." This shows how important and well-known this natural harbor was throughout history.
Keeping the Cove Clean
Like many natural areas, the Wethersfield Cove faces challenges. People in the community care deeply about keeping the water clean. They want to make sure that no dirty water goes into the Cove. There have been efforts to improve the water quality. For example, the Metropolitan District Commission of Connecticut has a big project. It's called the Clean Water Project. This project aims to make sure the water in the Cove and surrounding areas stays healthy. It's a huge effort to protect this important natural resource for everyone.
