www.thompsonct.org

In 1684, more than 20 years before the first European settlers arrived, the area that is now Thompson was acquired by Massachusetts speculators and sold to absentee English gentlemen who laid out large farms.  One of these purchasers, Sir Robert Thompson of Middlesex, England, gave his name to the remote town.  Today’s township of Thompson consists of what was once nine small mill towns, which grew up along convenient waterways.

In 1813, the Mason family built a small cotton mill on the French River.  Larger mills were added in 1826 and 1831.  In 1861, the original building was moved by Dr. William Grosvenor.  He consolidated the Masonville Company Mill with the Fisherville Company Mill in 1868.  In 1872, a huge steam powered cotton mill was built.  By 1900, this was the biggest mill and employer in Windham County with 1,750 employees.

The Green on Thompson Hill today is the epitome of history, beautifully preserved.  The oldest remaining building is the 1767 home of Samuel Watson.  Ellen D. Larned, noted historian and author of the History of Windham County, was born in the house in 1825.  She was the first woman admitted to the Connecticut Historical Society.  The Vernon Stiles Inn was established in 1814 at the junction of the Boston to Hartford and the Providence to Springfield Turnpikes.  The Old Town Hall, built in 1842, was designed by famed architect Ithiel Towne, a native of Thompson.

Thompson is a Right-to-Farm town with an agricultural past dating back to the earliest settlers of its lands.  It is a pursuit that has anchored the history of Thompson and continues today as an active and significant part of the community.

One of our main efforts is focused on promoting and supporting small to mid-size business growth and development.  The Town’s two Enterprise Corroder Zones offer opportunities for a full range of ventures including, but not limited to, Arts, Business (incubator start up and expansion) Research and Development and Manufacturing, as well as renovated mill space available for short/long-term rental.  Thompson offers a superb location for hotel/conference center with easy access to Boston, Hartford and Providence airports and universities. Your business is our priority.

Intensive revitalization efforts in the North Grosvenordale area have included extensive renovation of historic mill housing for affordable housing opportunities and upgraded senior housing.  Thompson offers a myriad of recreational activities as well as trails for walking, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snow shoeing and wildlife observation, and miles of navigable rivers and lakes for canoe, kayak and fishing. 

Thompson is a great place to start or grow a business or a family.  Why?

• The state provides the competitive advantages that companies need to succeed in today’s global marketplace.  
• Prime Location
• Centrally located for Technology and Innovation support
• Dynamic Workforce within easy commute
• Educational Excellence
• Incentives for Growth
• Quality of Life