Old Lyme is home to roughly 8,000 permanent residents and an additional several thousand seasonal visitors who enjoy its shoreline dotted in summer homes. Nestled on the east bank of the mouth of the Connecticut River where it meets Long Island Sound, the town is defined by its spirit of independence, strong commitment to volunteerism, and deep-rooted dedication to the arts. Stately Colonial and Federal-style buildings grace its main streets and meandering country roads, offering a glimpse into its rich history.
Old Lyme began as part of Old Saybrook in the early colonial era and separated as South Lyme, on February 13, 1665, later adopting the name Old Lyme in 1857 to reflect its status as the oldest settled portion of "the Lymes." Old Lyme occupies about 27 square miles of shoreline, tidal marsh, inland wetlands and forested hills. Our neighbor to the north is the Town of Lyme; to the east, East Lyme.
Our town supports a variety of small service businesses and a growing number of high technology design and production companies. Many residents commute to nearby cities such as New London, Groton, New Haven, and Hartford as well as destinations beyond Connecticut. A significant number are employed by General Dynamics Electric Boat and Pfizer, Inc., or with numerous spin-off businesses associated with the U.S. Navy.
During the 14 weeks of summer, the town's population more than doubles as seasonal residents and visitors arrive to enjoy its coastal charm. Sound View, Old Lyme's well-known public beach along Long Island Sound is a favorite destination of visitors, as are Rogers Lake at Hains Park, smaller parks, and boat landings along the Connecticut River and tidal estuaries.
Education is served through the Lyme-Old Lyme Regional 18 School District, comprising of two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The town is also home to the Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts, an accredited college which draws on the roots of the town as a center for Barbizon and, later, American Impressionism painting at the turn of the century
In 1899, Miss Florence Griswold first opened her doors to a group of artists known as the Lyme Art Colony: Childe Hassam, Henry Ward Ranger, Willard Metcalf and others. Today, the Florence Griswold Museum continues that legacy, offering nationally recognized exhibitions and a variety of educational programs for the public.
Old Lyme's strong spirit of volunteerism is reflected in its dedicated fire and ambulance departments, Friends of the Library, numerous town boards and commissions, and community organizations such as High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, the Lyme's Youth Services Bureau, Lyme Art Association, Lyme Historical Society, Chamber of Commerce, active scouting programs, the Masons, Lions, Junior Women, and local garden clubs. The Old Lyme Memorial Town Hall honors residents who served in the armed forces during both World Wars, as well as the Korean and Vietnam conflict.
The year 2000 was a milestone year for Old Lyme. The Roger Tory Peterson Wildlife Area at Great Island was dedicated in honor of the late naturalist and artist. Sculptor and Lyme Academy founder Elisabeth Gordon Chandler, received the Governor's Arts Award, and the Lyme/Old Lyme Little League team captured the State Championship, coming within one game of winning the New England Title. That same year, the town adopted a new seal - designed by resident and Lyme Academy student Catherine Christiano - which features an osprey representing the influence of Roger Tory Peterson, a sailing ship honoring Old Lyme's sea captain heritage, and an artist's palette celebrating its vibrant art colony.
Old Lyme offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal charm - inviting visitors and residents to explore, relax and be inspired.