Haddam First Selectman's Message
Paul DeStafano, First Selectman

      For the nearly 7900 people who live here, Haddam is a special place in time. Carved out of an historic setting of hills and valleys and bordered by the majestic Connecticut River, Haddam is a mosaic of cultures on a tapestry of ethnic diversity.   Her villages and districts, although unique and distinct, blend together as one, with a heart and will that truly epitomizes the meaning of the word ‘neighbor.’ The townspeople are proud of their ability to give of themselves for the good of the town as a whole, resulting in a core of volunteers that contributes greatly to the health and safety of the town while truly enhancing its quality of life.   The people of Haddam wear their history on their sleeves, and consider their roots as a statement of who they are and a foundation for who they will become. Ancestral folklore passed down from generation to generation represents the lessons of time to many of the families who are caught up in the speed zone of today’s demands. For those families, Haddam has truly become a place of refuge, a stronghold to help them deal with a world that sometimes seems to be out of control, a chapel where they can rest and reflect, and a precious place in time that will never be duplicated.   Far too often, we consider our worth by the measurements of society. For the people of Haddam, however, what they ‘do’ in life is not as important as who they ‘are.’ In like, the value of the place they live is far more poignant when it is measured by its way of life and not the number of shopping malls.       

  We live in a time that challenges our very core, a time of trepidation and doubt, a time where we thirst for peace and hunger for rest. To many, the small town of Haddam quenches that thirst and fills that hunger. It is a sanctuary for rejuvenation, a place to take stock, a place to strengthen the body and heal the soul.   A short time ago, I was asked by an accomplished construction contractor who had traveled the country erecting buildings that changed the face and the culture of many small municipalities, just what was so special about the little town of Haddam? I remember looking into his steel blue eyes, smiling proudly, and telling him........... “A river runs through it!”     Paul J. DeStefano                   

Business Leaders Message

Have you shopped in Haddam lately? Haddam is home to many great one of a kind stores. I enjoy shopping in Haddam because I can get a lot of errands done before and after I open the store. I can get my coffee and a snack at Citgo, then I can pick up plants and outside decorations at the Town & Country Florist. I can drop off my husband's lawn mower for maintenance at Alan's Small Engine Service and browse at Fireworks for new ideas for my home. After work I can pick up a gift at Grandma's Cottage or the Merchant House because they are open late. I save gas, time, and get to visit with all my local business friends. I encourage all of you to rediscover and shop in Haddam.

Debbie Sims
Eastern Rental Tent & Party Supplies

Town Information

Population: 7653
Size: 44 sq. miles
Government: First Selectman/Town Meeting
Med. Household Income: $95,347

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