'Turnback Tuesday' highlights Housatonic River, Indian Well in Shelton

 Turnback Tuesday presents this wonderful image of the Housatonic (Ousatonic) River looking north; more importantly, the location of Indian Well State Park in Shelton. 

The flat, grassy looking area to the left before the bend is where Indian Well State Park is located.

The park was established in 1928. It boasted a 15-foot waterfall and deep scenic pool. The area was associated with the Pootatuck or Paugussett Native American Tribes. 

In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed the park with stone walls, a bridge, etc. The park has been enjoyed by families for 98 years.

This image is approximately 4’ x 3’ and hangs upstairs in the hallway of Derby Public Library.

Thanks goes to Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

From the photo archives: Lake Housatonic from Shelton side

Taken on a beautiful afternoon in late August of 2023.

Recuperation journey: Looking at the sky (and river)

This pic of Lake Housatonic is from last Sunday afternoon at Indian Well State Park in Shelton. The weather was beautiful. 

Derby Neck Library to offer short hikes, outdoor story times this summer

Derby Neck Library is at 307 Hawthorne Ave., Derby. 

DEEP: Fewer lifeguards at state swimming areas

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection today reminded state park visitors that the number of lifeguards at state park swimming areas will be significantly reduced as the end of the summer swimming season fast approaches. 

At this time of year, many lifeguards leave their positions to return to school, but the DEEP maintains coverage wherever possible through Labor Day weekend.  
After Labor Day, Sept. 7, there will be no lifeguards on duty at any of Connecticut’s state park swimming areas.

"With the last summer days of swimming fast approaching, the DEEP encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and use sound judgment when swimming at Connecticut’s state park beaches,” said DEEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Whalen. 
"With a reduced number of lifeguards on duty as the summer winds down, remember to stay within designated swimming areas, parents watch your children, and don't drink alcohol then swim." 

Weekday Coverage, Aug. 26-Sept. 4

Most of the state park swimming areas are unguarded weekdays from now through Labor Day. Swim areas will be posted with signs where there are no lifeguards on duty. 

Weekends and Holidays

Lifeguards will be on duty at the following state parks this weekend and Labor Day Weekend:

Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison-East Beach

Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield

During the summer season, DEEP maintains lifeguards at the following eight state park designated swimming areas:

Hammonasset Beach– Madison

Rocky Neck – East Lyme

Sherwood Island – Westport

Silver Sands – Milford

Black Rock – Watertown

Burr Pond – Torrington

Indian Well – Shelton

Squantz Pond – New Fairfield


This is a press release from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.