Higganum

History

The name "Higganum" is derived from an Indian name meaning either "at the tomahawk rock" or "Great Bend in River". At about 1800, Higganum Center was the area of most economic activity in the town. The neighborhood had abundant water power, and Higganum Landing on the Connecticut River formed a natural cove that served as a river port and shipbuilding center from the late 1700s through the mid-1800s. Scovil Hoe Company, which made hoes that helped till soil for crops that included cotton and tobacco, once had a major factory based in Higganum. Higganum Landing Historic District has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2018. Higganum encompasses the town's traditional center and remains the shopping and civic center for Haddam. It has a center green with a veterans' memorial, Shad museum, a youth center and a gazebo.

Geography

Higganum lies on the southwestern bank of the Connecticut River and is located immediately south of Middletown. Geographical landmarks include Candlewood Hill, Candlewood Brook, Seven Falls and Bible Rock. According to the United States Census Bureau, the Higganum CDP has a total area of , of which are land and , or 4.77%, are water.

Race & ethnicity