Groton: A History of Big Ideas
Groton may be a coastal town, but our story has always had a global reach. For over 300 years, this has been a place where people with big ideas come to the shoreline to build things that change the world. From historic shipyards to modern boardrooms, Groton’s culture has always been about hard work, innovation, and maritime mastery.
Built by the Sea
Our deep connection to the water shaped our economic future. When the global economy needed whale oil, Groton was an international whaling hub. When the nation needed fast sea trade, our local craftsmen were right here on the Mystic River building world-class Clipper Ships. That historic waterfront character is exactly what makes our town a premier destination for visitors and coastal living today.
A Tradition of Innovation
Groton has always been a magnet for pioneers who think outside the box. In the 1920s, the local Bacon Banjo Company on Thames Street crafted instruments so flawless they were dubbed the "Rolls Royce of banjos." Decades later, Pfizer scientists right here in Groton perfected the mass-production of Penicillin, saving countless lives during World War II. That spirit of discovery continued into the 1970s with the founding of Project Oceanology at Avery Point, pioneering hands-on marine science education long before "Blue Tech" became a global buzzword.
Did You Know...?
Groton became known as "The Submarine Capital of the World" when the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics delivered 74 diesel submarines to the Navy over the course of World War II.
Quick Links
Historic Sites
- USS Nautilus
- Avery-Copp House
- New London Ledge Light
- Branford House at UConn Avery Point
- Historic Village of Groton Bank
- Mystic River Historic District
Fort Griswold History
The Submarine Capital of the World
Our strategic spot on the coast means Groton has always been a shield for American freedom. From the brave defenders at Fort Griswold during the Revolutionary War to the birth of the USS Nautilus—the world’s very first nuclear submarine—we earned our nickname as the Submarine Capital of the World.
Today, that proud tradition lives on through the U.S. Navy Submarine Base and the incredible shipbuilders at General Dynamics Electric Boat.
From training 300,000 Coast Guard sailors at what is now UConn Avery Point to launching today's newest "Blue Tech" startups, Groton has never stopped moving forward. We have a proud past, but our favorite part of history is the piece we are building today.
