History

Neptune Park Since 1933

From summer cottages along Long Island Sound to a vibrant, self-governing community—Neptune Park’s charter endures.

Key Milestones
  • 1909: Early cottages built, including Walter S. Garde’s at 14 Mott Ave.
  • April 18, 1933: CT House Bill 658 incorporates Neptune Park Association.
  • June 1933: First annual meeting elects Board of Governors.
  • 1957: Tax limit raised to 5 mills (House Bill 2123).
  • Today: 90+ years of resident-led governance, beach stewardship.
Founding Charter (1933)

The Neptune Park Association was created by the Connecticut General Assembly via **House Bill No. 658** on April 18, 1933, uniting owners of cottages and real estate along Long Island Sound as a body politic and corporate.

Founding Committee
John A. Walsh (New London): WWII submariner; later Rear Admiral commanding USS Dace and Thomas Jefferson
Thomas A. Woodruff (New London): Local resident (1865–1940), buried in New London; community leader.
Ruth B. O’Neil (New London): Incorporator; limited records, likely civic volunteer.
Walter S. Garde (West Hartford): Owner of 1909 Donnelly-designed cottage at 14 Mott Ave; prominent early developer.
Governance Evolution

Residents elect a 9-member Board of Governors annually on the fourth Saturday in June—one vote per parcel. Powers include taxation, nuisance abatement, beach rules, and special constables. The Association enforces New London zoning while prioritizing shoreline protection.

Wall of Honor: Notable Residents

Neptune Park has hosted leaders across eras:

  • Adm. Russell Waesche Sr. (46 Mott Ave): Longest-serving Coast Guard Commandant (1939–1945); Waesche Hall named for him.
  • Sen. John McCain (1140 Ocean Ave, age 4–9): Future presidential candidate; learned of Pearl Harbor here.
  • Gov. Abraham Ribicoff (Mott Ave): CT Governor (1955–1961), U.S. Senator.
  • Mayor Ann Uccello (31 Neptune Ct): First female mayor of a U.S. capital (Hartford, 1967–1971).
  • Gov. Thomas Waller (11 Elliott Ave): CT Governor (1883–1885).
Modern Legacy

From 1933’s refuse removal mandates to today’s beach access, Neptune Park thrives as New London’s “well-kept secret” shoreline—balancing history, democracy, and coastal resilience.