The town was founded in 1708 when about 30 families from Long Island Sound settlements bought these uplands from the Ramapoo Indians. Since then, Ridgefield has had a rich history that includes such personalities as Benedict Arnold, who fought here, and Eugene O'Neill, who wrote here. The Cass Gilbert Fountain dating from 1915 has become a Ridgefield landmark. It was given to the town by the noted American architect in honor of his wife. It is located along the southern end of Main Street.
Ridgefield has an excellent public library. The Ridgefield Library was built in 1903. this beautiful Beau Arts period building has been restored to its original splendor. The library offers over 130,000 books, computer stations with Internet access, DVDs, videos, music and year-round programs for all ages.
Connecticut Magazine regularly ranks Ridgefield as highest quality of life, based on its schools, low crime rate and scope of services. Its school system is considered among the finest in a state known for excellent schools. Even its dining is world-class; for nearly a century, the town has been famous for its excellent restaurants, from world class country inns modern bistros.