Tolland County, Connecticut

About

Tolland County is a county located in the U.S. state of Connecticut. As of the 2010 census, the population was 152,691 and a population density of 141 people per km². After 10 years in 2020 county had an estimated population of 150,600 inhabitants. Its county seat is Tolland. The county was created 239 years ago in 1784.

Tolland County is located in the northeastern part of Connecticut. It is part of the Hartford metropolitan area. The county was founded in 1785 and named after the town of Tolland.

With a population around 151,000 as of 2020, Tolland County is Connecticut's fourth least populous county. It spans 410 square miles, covered by rolling hills and forests.

Key Facts and History

• The area was originally inhabited by the Algonquin people before European colonization began in the early 1700s.
• Early settlers were mostly farmers. By the 1800s, small mill towns had emerged, with textile, papermaking and machinery factories.
• University of Connecticut's main campus opened in 1881 and remains a flagship state university. Other colleges eventually located in the county too.
• While still largely rural, suburban development increased in the late 20th century as Hartford expanded.

Major Industries and Attractions

• Besides the University of Connecticut in Storrs, education is a major employer. There are several private schools.
• Manufacturing, healthcare, retail and hospitality also provide jobs. Tourism draws visitors to the countryside.
• Outdoors recreation options include hiking, skiing, fishing, and boating. Shenipsit State Forest is a prime destination.
• Notable attractions include the New England Air Museum, Rockville Trolley Museum, and various state parks and nature areas.

Transportation and Cities

• I-84 and I-384 connect Tolland County to Hartford and other regions. Other highways include Routes 6, 31, 44 and 195.
• The largest city is Vernon with around 30,000 residents. Other population centers include Mansfield, Tolland, and Stafford.

Quick Facts about Tolland County

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Geography

Tolland County is located at 41°51'18"N 72°20'11"W (41.8550100, -72.3364900). It has 5 neighbors: Hartford County, New London County, Windham County, Hampden County and Worcester County.

Tolland County map

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The largest city of Tolland County is Mansfield City with a population of 26,439. Other cities include, Somers population 10,741, Stafford Springs population 4,988 and South Coventry population 1,483. See all Tolland County cities & populated places.

Tolland County Populated Places (more)

Cities, towns, neighborhoods & other populated places in Tolland County.

People born in Tolland County, including murder victim Henry Weston Smith, film director Ralph Murphy, pioneer Asahel Lathrop, .

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