The 15.28 acres of the Jesudowich farm was purchased by the City of West Haven in 2003 for Open Space. At that time, it was noted that Native American artifacts had been found and over two hundred of them are now a part of the collection at the Yale Peabody Museum. Many of the artifacts dated back over 5000 years. It is believed that this site was used by the Quinnipiac Indians for over 10,000 years. This information was confirmed by Dr. Nicholas Bellantoni, State Archeologist. To oversee this space and educational programs, the Cove River Site Committee (sub-committee of the West Haven Conservation and Open Space Land Commission) was formed. Students from Yale University, Southern Connecticut State University, the Department of Environmental Protection and others began exploration to further document this site.
Since 2009 environmental educators from SCSU have busily explored habitats at the Site to help them design lessons for outdoor learning experiences. Students can learn about native and invasive species and explore native and colonial farming.
Visitors to this site can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and may increase their appreciation of open space areas.
