In many ways, the history of industry in Bridgeport reflects that of smaller towns in the older areas of North America. From early roots in natural resources through to massive production until the middle of the 20th century, those with an address in a Bridgeport zip code could count on good jobs with the production sector. However, the days of the corner notcher, the assembly line worker, and the plant executive have been better in this town. Let's take a look at the industrial history of the city, and what's on the horizon in the New Millennium.

Roots

As with many cities just inland from the Atlantic Coast, Bridgeport has its commercial beginnings in the exploitation of natural resources. Located right on a large estuary and a deep harbor, Bridgeport was an important location for the region's commercial fishing industry. Many of the plants and factories needed to convert raw fish into shippable product were built during the development phase of Bridgeport's existence.

Farming was also practiced to some extent, but the soil in the area was too rocky to make for huge fortunes.

The beginning of the Industrial Age

The arrival of a railroad line meant a whole new outlook for the economy of Bridgeport. Again, the location of the city on the waterfront would benefit its residents. Major ship manufacturers began to locate in the area. They were complemented by the trappings of the whaling industry, from processing plants to shipping companies.

Manufacturing

The modes of transportation available within the city also meant that it was an ideal spot to locate for the producers of goods. Factories producing everything from carriages to ammunition sprang up along the rail lines and the waterfront.

Unfortunately, in the days before Y strainers and other industrial clean up equipment, pollution caused by these factories was a major problem. It would continue to haunt Bridgeport for years, and is still a problem within the city today as we shall see.

WWII

Just like other industrial cities, Bridgeport was to see its economic heyday during World War II. Industry in the country was at an all time high, as companies were producing not just for the domestic market but for allies as well. In the absence of high temperature tape and other types of injury preventing inventions it was not the safest city in which to work, but immigrants flocked here nevertheless. Jobs were plentiful and the money flowed.

Last half of the 20th Century

Unfortunately, in the years following the end of the War, Bridgeport's fortunes would begin to decline. Mechanization and declining profits would see many companies close down or move to friendlier climates. The heavily polluted industrial areas of the city saw a virtual shut down, with buildings locked to the public by door and window weights. Residents of means began to leave the city for other sites in Connecticut and nearby New York City.

New Millennium

It may be that the economy in Bridgeport is on the mend, thanks to a shift in perspective by local government. Today, Bridgeport is seeing a focus shift onto the service sectors rather than trying to save old industrial positions.

Two industries still continue to thrive in the area. The first is aquaculture, as the city still enjoys a highly advantageous position in the country. The second is in construction. As the new city plan kicks into effect, the skyline is home to two common sights; the wrecking ball and the crane. Deming and other construction equipment companies have a huge presence in the area, thanks to the planner's commitment to revitalization.

This page is brought to you by Sandy Hutchens and Tanya Hutchens who are long time supporters.