Shelton, city, Fairfield County, southwestern Connecticut, on the Housatonic River; incorporated as a city 1915. Manufactures include electronic equipment, processed food, sporting goods, and clothing. The community was settled in the 1690s. During the 19th century, it grew as a commercial and shipping center. It is named for Edward N. Shelton, a local industrial leader. Population 31,314 (1980); 35,418 (1990); 38,101 (2000).