The Historic Wooster Square Association Story

The Historic Wooster Square Association (HWSA) is dedicated to preserving, enhancing and celebrating the Wooster Square neighborhood of New Haven, Connecticut. The Wooster Square Historic District became a local historic district (New Haven's first!) on June 11, 1970, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on August 5, 1971.

HWSA was founded in the 1980s as a homeowners association concerned with protecting the 19th century architecture surrounding Wooster Square. It is part of the not-for-profit Wooster Square Conservancy. Our mission continues and now includes addressing the needs and concerns of the larger community, a rich mixture of vibrant people and fascinating cultures.

Background: In the 1820s, the City of New Haven purchased a six-acre pasture and converted it into a public square named after David Wooster, a Revolutionary War general. The city spread east during the early 19th century, and the area around Wooster Square became a fashionable neighborhood. In 1860, an iron fence was built around the square to replace the original wooden fence.

HWSA provides leadership in identifying and acting on neighborhood issues and concerns affecting the quality of life in our community, working closely with other city and state organizations to achieve mutual goals. 

What we do:                 

•       Advocate neighborhood beautification and preservation.

•       Arrange concerts in Wooster Square Park and area churches.

•       Represent neighborhood interests with Zoning, Historic District Commission, Parks Commission and other agencies.

•       Keep residents informed of important local issues.

•       Support and connect with related neighborhood organizations including CitySeed, Elm City Parks Conservancy, Court Street Association,  Wooster Square Bock Watch, Downtown Wooster Square Community Management Team, Urban Resources Initiative and Russo Park as well as the New Haven Preservation Trust.