History
Founded in 1887, our goal is to preserve the historic character of Southport and to contribute to the community’s day-to-day enjoyment of Village life.
The Sasquanaug Association for Southport, Inc. improvement was founded in 1887 by a group of prominent local ladies seeking to improve and beautify the Village of Southport, Connecticut. At the time, Southport was in a period of transition from a bustling shipping town to a more residential enclave. Inspired by a similar group in other towns in Connecticut and Massachusetts, they raised funds through membership dues, bake sales, and lawn parties to fund their endeavors that included the installation and maintenance of bluestone sidewalks and kerosene street lamps.
Our Founders
The Sasquanaug Association for Southport Improvement was founded in 1887 by a group of prominent local ladies seeking to improve and beautify the Village of Southport, Connecticut.
At the time, Southport was in a period of transition from a bustling shipping town to a more residential enclave. Inspired by similar organizations in Connecticut and Massachusetts, the founders worked together to preserve and enhance the character of their community for future generations.
Through membership dues, bake sales, and lawn parties, they raised funds to support projects that improved the village. Their efforts included the installation and maintenance of bluestone sidewalks and kerosene street lamps throughout Southport—lasting investments that reflected their commitment to civic pride and community stewardship.
More than 135 years of preserving Southport’s history, beauty, and community.
1887
The Sasquanaug Association for Southport Improvement is founded.
1901
Sasquanaug acquires deed to the future home of The Sea Lodge.
1926
Sasquanaug acquires Robinson Cottage.
1952
Sasquanaug is deeded land that is now known as Southport Park.
1982
The Southport Conservancy was founded to raise funds for the purchase and preservation of the Pequot School, which was under threat of commercial development.
1980s
Southport Conservancy raises funds to purchase and improve Village Park on the Old Post Road.
1987
- Sasquanaug celebrates its Centennial with festivities throughout the Village.
- Southport Conservancy publishes the first three issues of The Southport Packet and the book, Southport: The Architectural Legacy of a Connecticut Village.
1988
Southport Conservancy saves the iconic and historic Freight Station from demolition and restored it to its original condition.
2019
The Southport Conservancy contributes funds to restore the historic shed at Ye Yacht Yard.
2021
Sasquanaug launches first annual Onion Fest at Pequot Library to celebrate Southport’s deep history of alliums.
2023
The Sasquanaug Association and Southport Conservancy join forces as intervenors to battle United Illuminating’s Docket 516 for proposed monopoles and electrification on Southport property along the railroad tracks.
2024
Sasquanaug unveils the Pequot Walking Trail at Southport Park.
2025
- The Southport Conservancy develops the “Southport Walking Tour” app, based on the 1993 version narrated by actor and longtime Southport resident, Jason Robards.
- Sasquanaug opens the Taylor’s Trail dog path at Southport Park.
- Southport Conservancy and Sasquanaug Association merge into the Sasquanaug Conservancy for Southport.
- The CT Siting Council votes to deny Docket 516, stopping UI’s plan to install monopoles.
More than 135 years of preserving Southport’s history, beauty, and community.
1887
The Sasquanaug Association for Southport Improvement is founded.
1901
Sasquanaug acquires deed to the future home of The Sea Lodge.
1926
Sasquanaug acquires Robinson Cottage.
1952
Sasquanaug is deeded land that is now known as Southport Park.
1982
The Southport Conservancy was founded to raise funds for the purchase and preservation of the Pequot School, which was under threat of commercial development.
1980s
Southport Conservancy raises funds to purchase and improve Village Park on the Old Post Road.
1987
- Sasquanaug celebrates its Centennial with festivities throughout the Village.
- Southport Conservancy publishes the first three issues of The Southport Packet and the book, Southport: The Architectural Legacy of a Connecticut Village – now sold at the Fairfield Women’s Exchange, Lattice House, and Fairfield Museum Gift Shop.
1988
Southport Conservancy saves the iconic and historic Freight Station from demolition and restored it to its original condition.
2019
The Southport Conservancy contributes funds to restore the historic shed at Ye Yacht Yard.
2021
Sasquanaug launches first annual Onion Fest at Pequot Library to celebrate Southport’s deep history of alliums.
2023
The Sasquanaug Association and Southport Conservancy join forces as intervenors to battle United Illuminating’s Docket 516 for proposed monopoles and electrification on Southport property along the railroad tracks.
2024
Sasquanaug unveils the Pequot Walking Trail at Southport Park.
2025
- The Southport Conservancy develops the “Southport Walking Tour” app, based on the 1993 version narrated by actor and longtime Southport resident, Jason Robards.
- Sasquanaug opens the Taylor’s Trail dog path at Southport Park.
- Southport Conservancy and Sasquanaug Association merge into the Sasquanaug Conservancy for Southport to forge a single entity dedicated to historic preservation, environmental stewardship, and civic improvement.
- In a huge victory for our community, the CT Siting Council votes to deny Docket 516, stopping UI’s plan to install monopoles.