Connecticut

Did you know pizza in America began in 1905 in New York? But, Connecticut wasn’t that far behind. This state is home to some of the oldest pizzerias in the United States. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven (1925), Zuppardi’s Apizza in West Haven (1934), Modern Apizza in New Haven (1934), and Jennie’s Pizzeria in Bridgeport and Monroe (1935) are among the oldest in the country.

You have 45 minutes to open up the Connecticut Breakout Locks or the CT pizzerias just might close all their doors and you would be forced to go to New York.

Connecticut is located in the eastern part of the United States. Part of the original 13 colonies, Connecticut became the 5th state on January 9, 1788.

The name Connecticut comes from an Algonquin word for “beside the long tidal river.”

The capital city is Hartford and largest city is Bridgeport. Connecticut ranks as the 3rd smallest state in the USA.

Connecticut is bordered by three states: Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island.

The Constitution State

Connecticut earned its nickname "the Constitution State" because it’s home to what some historians consider the United States’ first written constitution. This very important document was called, the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut. It was adopted in 1639.

The state flag of Connecticut has a white shield that pictures three grapevines. Each grapevine bears three bunches of purple grapes. Below the shield is a yellow edged white ribbon with the state motto "He who Transplanted Sustains Us" upon it. The shield and motto are centered on the blue background.

The state song of Connecticut is “Yankee Doodle.”

The lyrics (words) to the historic tune are thought to come from a British surgeon named Dr. Richard Shuckburgh. He wanted to make fun of the ragtag appearance of the state governor’s son, Colonel Thomas Fitch V, and his troops during the French and Indian War in 1755.

PEZ Candy was invented in Vienna, Austria by Eduard Haas III. He wanted people to eat PEZ Candy instead of smoking cigarettes.

The name PEZ comes from the German word for peppermint, “PfeffErminZ. The P comes from the first letter, E from the middle and Z from the last letter to spell the word PEZ.

In 1973, PEZ builds their first candy manufacturing facility in Orange, Connecticut.

These little brick shaped candy has been enjoyed by generations all around the world. Today, billions of PEZ candies are eaten every year.

The first ever helicopter was built and took flight in the state of Connecticut on September 14, 1939.

The helicopter was designed by Igor Sikorsky and built by Vought-Sikorsky Aircraft Division.

An average helicopter can reach a top speed of somewhere between 130 and 140 knots, which comes out to about 160 mph. How many miles would a helicopter travel in 4 hours?

Connecticut has both a State Heroine and Hero

Prudence Crandall (1803-1890) was designated the official state heroine of Connecticut in 1995. She is as symbol of courage for her stand against prejudice. She established the first school for African-American women in New England in 1833.

Nathan Hale, (1755-1776) was designated the official state hero of Connecticut in 1985. Nathan Hale was a captain in the Continental army and volunteered to spy on the British during the American Revolution.

At age 21, he was hanged without a trial by the British. The young patriot's immortal last words were, "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country."

Television Fact

The first color television was built in 1948.

Interesting Insect Fact

The state insect of Connecticut is the praying mantis. This is a bit unusual as this insect is not native to North America. In fact, the praying mantis is native to Africa and Europe.

Presidential Fact

The 43rd President of America was George W. Bush. He was born on July 6, 1946 in New Haven, Connecticut.

In order for a pickle to be considered a pickle in Connecticut, it must bounce.