Originally known as Newbury, the town's name was changed to Brookfield in 1788, when the town was incorporated, in honor of the town's first resident minister, Rev. Thomas Brooks.

Bordered by Candlewood Lake, Connecticut's largest man-made lake, to the west and Lake Lillinonah to the east, Brookfield has evolved from the quiet farming town of 3500 to a thriving close-knit suburban community.

Although all the modern amenities for today's varied lifestyles can be found in and around town, Brookfield's roots are still conspicuous. Just meander through the old town center. That's where you'll find the historic Congregational Church, the old Town Hall (now the home of the Historical Society), the Village store, and many home of different styles from colonial times. A special attraction is the Museum Garden maintained by the Garden Club. Designed by Dr. Rudolph Faveretti, a former professor of landscape architecture. It features plantings typical of the 1800s. Further along Route 25, the old mill that houses the Brookfield Craft Center and former hotel across the street are reminders of the town's past.

To serve its present day residents, the town has built a municipal complex, housing the Town Government, Post Office, Community Center, Police Headquarters and Fire Department. Behind the complex, volunteers have constructed a "Kids' Kingdom". This is a town proud of its heritage and committed to its future.