Fort Stamford

A Revolutionary Hideaway in Stamford

Located in the Westover neighborhood, Fort Stamford is a 5-acre historic treasure that blends Revolutionary War history with peaceful garden spaces. This little-known park at 900 Westover Road preserves what remains of a 1781 fortification built to shield the Stamford-Greenwich area from British attacks during America's fight for independence.

The fort wasn't just thrown together - it was thoughtfully designed by Colonel Rufus Putnam and built under Brigadier General David Waterbury's supervision with roughly 700 state troops. These soldiers stood guard here until 1783, helping keep local residents safe from enemy raids.

Traces of Revolutionary Defense

While time has claimed much of the original structure, you can still spot some earthen mounds from the fort, especially southeast and west of the garden area. These subtle remains might not look like much at first glance, but they're authentic connections to the site's military past.

There's something humbling about walking the same ground where Revolutionary soldiers once stood watch. Though the physical fort has largely disappeared, the historical significance remains intact - a quiet reminder of the people who defended American liberty in its earliest days.

The Enchanting Goodbody Garden

The Goodbody Garden is perhaps Fort Stamford's most charming feature - an Italianate formal garden created in the 1920s when this was still a private estate. Now lovingly maintained by the Stamford Garden Club, the garden showcases seasonal flowers, artistic sculptures, and architectural elements including a pergola resting on sturdy stone pillars.

The garden's design includes a sunken garden area and fountain that add layers of visual interest. If you visit during spring or summer when everything's in bloom, you'll discover a genuinely magical space that feels worlds away from everyday life.

What to Expect When You Visit

Throughout the park, you'll find walking paths and benches great for taking a breather and soaking in your surroundings. Informational markers and monuments scattered across the grounds help tell the story of the site's Revolutionary significance.

The garden areas occasionally host events and serve as backdrops for wedding photos, but most days you'll discover them peacefully quiet. Many visitors come specifically for the tranquil atmosphere that makes this spot ideal for contemplation or practicing photography skills.

Simple Pleasures

If you're looking to spend more time here, Fort Stamford offers a pleasant picnic area with well-maintained grassy spaces that practically beg for a blanket and basket lunch. A small gazebo provides a sweet spot for small gatherings or just sitting with a book.

The walking paths welcome casual strollers and dog walkers alike, with local residents often making this part of their regular routine. While Fort Stamford isn't huge, its blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a worthwhile destination that punches well above its weight.