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HISTORY
OK
9
AVEN BOUNTY,
CONNECTICUT.
Edited "by
J. L. ROCKEY,
Assisted by a corps of writers.
Ii) two voIuit^s, Ulusbrabecl.
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W. W. PH£st«)N & CO.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
THE TOWN OF BRANFORD.
PAGE
Settlement and Early History.— Civil Government.— Town Officers.— Town
Buildings.— Branford Borough.— Probate District.— Public Highways.—
General Industrial Interests. — Branford Village. — Beach and Shore Re-
sorts.— Stony Creek Village.— Secret and Beneficial Orders. — The G. A.
R. and the Soldiers' Monument. — Education.— Congregational Church
and Society.— Trinity (P. E.) Church.— Baptist Church.— Methodist
Church.— Lutheran Church.— St. Mary's (R. C.) Church.— Cemeteries.—
Biographical Sketches 1
CHAPTER II.
THE TOWN OF NORTH BRANFORD.
Location and Description.— Settlement and Settlers.— Civil Organization. —
General Industrial Interests.— Bare Plain.— North Branford Village. —
Northford. — Masonic Lodge. — Patrons of Husbandry.— Educational
Affairs. — North Branford Congregational Church. — Northford Congrega-
tional Church.— The "Enrolled" Church.— Zion (Protestant Episcopal)
Church.— Bare Plain Union Chapel.— Cemeteries.— Roster of Captain
Eells Company in the Revolution.— Soldiers' Monument.— Biographical
Sketches 72
CHAPTER III.
THE TOWN OF GUILFORD.
Location and Description. — Natural Features and Points of Interest. — The
Pioneers. — Civil Government. — Probate District. — Magistrates and Jus-
tices. — Town Buildings. — Cemeteries.— Roads and Bridges.— Industrial
Pursuits. — Guilford Borough. — Lodges and Societies. — Religious Inter-
ests. — Educational and Literary. — Some Distinguished Citizens. — Physi-
cians and Lawyers. — Military Matters. — Soldiers' Monument. — Biographi-
cal Sketches 108
CHAPTER IV.
THE TOWN OF MADISON.
Location and Description.— Settlement and Settlers. — Old Houses. — Civil
Organization and Civil Officers. — Madison Green. — Highways. — Industrial
Interests. — East River. — North Madison. — Madison Village. — The Beach.
— Physicians. — Educational and Religious. — Lodges. — Cemeteries. — Mili-
tary Affairs. — Biographical Sketches 183
iv TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER V.
THE TOWN OF MILFORD. PAGE
Geographical and Descriptive. — The Indians. — The Early Settlers. — Civil
Government. — Roads, Ferries and Bridges. — Shipbuilding, Commerce
and Trade. — Milford Village. — Woodmont. — Wheeler's Farm. — Public
Houses. — Manufacturing Interests. — Banks. — Newspapers. — Post Office.
— Fire Company. — Agricultural Society. — Secret Orders. — Soldiers'
Monuments. — Educational and Professional. — Churches. — Cemeteries.
— Military Affairs. — 250th Anniversary. — Biographical Sketches 210
CHAPTER VI.
THE TOWN OF WOODBRIDGE.
Location and Natural Features. — Geology and Mineralogy. — Flora. — Indus-
tries. — The Regicide Judges. — Amity Society. — Union Society. — Chapel.
— Ministers. — Burial Grounds. — Prominent Citizens. — List of Early In-
habitants. — First Town Meeting. — Town Officers. — Town House. — Roads.
— Physicians. — Biographical Sketches 28£
CHAPTER VII.
THE TOWN OF BETHANY.
Location and Description. — Civil Organization. — Town Officers. — Business
Interests. — Physicians. — Religious and Educational Interests. — Cemeter-
ies. — Revolutionary Incident. — Biographical Sketches 311
CHAPTER VIII.
THE TOWN OF ORANGE.
Location and Natural Features. — Incorporation. — Civil List. — Highways. —
West Haven Village and Its Various Interests. — The Village of Orange.
— Tyler City. — Allingtown. — West Haven Congregational Church. —
Christ Church (P. E.).— West Haven M. E. Church.— St. Lawrence
Church (R. C). — Orange Congregational Church. — Orange Cemetery. —
Biographical Sketches 330
CHAPTER IX.
THE TOWN OF DERBY.
Location.— The Indians.— Early Trading Post.— Purchase of Lands.— The
Proprietors.— Civil Government.— Extracts from Town Records. — Fer-
ries, Roads, Bridges, etc.— Early Commercial Interests and Shipbuilding.
—Derby Village.— Burtville.— Birmingham and Its Manufacturing Inter-
ests.— Merchants.— Hotels.— Banks.— The Press.— Post Office.— Physi-
cians and Lawyers. — The Borough. — Fire Department.— Water Com-
pany. — Gas Company.— Street Railways. — Driving Park.— Societies and
Lodges. — Soldiers' Monument 365
CHAPTER X.
THE TOWN OF DERBY (CONCLUDED).
Educational Interests.— Early Religious Interests.— First Congregational
Church in Derby.— Birmingham Congregational Church.— Young Men's
Christian Association.— Episcopal Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal
Denomination.— Union Chapels.— African M. E. Church.— Roman Catho-
lic Church.— Cemeteries.— Biographical Sketches 41T
TABLE OF CONTENTS. V
CHAPTER XI.
THE TOWN OF ANSONIA. PAGE
Location and Description. †” Civil Government. — The Borough of Ansonia. —
West Ansonia. — Manufacturing Interests. — Banks. — Post Office. — The
Press. — Opera House. — Water Companies. — Physicians and Lawyers. —
Lodges and Societies. — Soldiers' Monument. — Congregational Church. —
Christ Church. — Young Men's Christian Association. — Emanuel Free
Church. — Methodist Episcopal Church. — Baptist Church. — Second (Col-
ored) Baptist Church. — Roman Catholic Church. — Schools. — Biographical
Sketches 476
CHAPTER XII.
THE TOWN OF OXFORD.
Description. — Purchase of Lands from the Indians. — Early Settlers and Their
Descendants. — Civil Organization. — Town Officers. — Business Interests.
— Oxford Village and Its Various Interests. — Physicians. — Religious and
Educational. — Sheldon Clark. — Burial Places. — Samuel Candee. — Militia.
— Biographical Sketches 531
CHAPTER XIII.
THE TOWN OF SEYMOUR.
Geographical and Descriptive. — The Indians. — The Settlers. — Civil Organi-
zation. — Public Thoroughfares. — Village of Seymour. — Hotels. — Mer-
chants. — Post Office. — Banks. — Physicians and Attorneys. — The Press. —
Libraries. — Lodges and Societies. — Manufacturing Interests. — Schools. —
Churches. — Cemeteries. — Biographical Sketches 551
CHAPTER XIV.
THE TOWN OF BEACON FALLS.
Location and Description. — Land Purchases. — Settlement and Settlers. —
Civil Organization. — Town Officers. — Pines Bridge. — Cemetery. — Indus-
trial Interests. — Societies. — Methodist Episcopal Church. — High Rock
Grove.— Biographical Sketches 615
CHAPTER XV.
TOWN AND CITY OF WATERBURY.
Location and Description. — Settlement and Early Events. — Waterbury City.
— Other Business Centers. — Civil Organization of the Town. — Probate
District. — Courts. — Waterbury Borough. — First City Charter. — Charter
of 1867.— Mayors and Clerks.— City Hall.— Police Department.— Street
Improvement. — Fire Department. — Water Works. — Gas and Electric
Lighting. — Parks. — Statistics. — Manufacturing Enterprises. — Banks. —
Insurance Company. — Horse Railway Company. — The Periodical Press.
— Post Office. — Public Houses. — Prominent Merchants. — Physicians and
Lawyers. — Lodges and Societies. — Educational Matters. — Churches. —
Hospital. — Cemeteries. — Military Matters. — Biographical Sketches 626
Vi TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XVI.
THE TOWN OF NAUGATUCK. PAGE
Location and Description.— Allotment of Lands and Settlement.— Civil Or-
ganization.— Town Officers.— Probate Court.— Town Hall,— Town Farm.
—Roads and Bridges.— Manufacturing Interests.— Straitsville.— Nauga-
tuck Village.— Savings Bank and Building Association.— Naugatuck Na-
tional Bank.— Electric Light Company. — Gas Company.— Water Com-
pany.— Fire Company.— Telephone Company. — The Periodical Press. —
Post Office.— Inns and Hotels. — Stores and Merchants. — Physicians. —
Secretand Social Orders. — Schools.— Libraries. — Congregational Church.
—St. Michael's (Protestant Episcopal) Church.— Methodist Episcopal
Church. — Union City Mission Chapel. — Swedish Lutheran Chapel. —
Baptists. — St. Francis (R. C.) Courch. — Soldiers' Monument. — Cemeter-
ies. — Biographical Sketches 699
CHAPTER XVII.
THE TOWN OF M1DDLEBURY.
Description and Natural Features. — Settlement and Settlers. — Civil Organi-
zation. — Town Officers. — Roads and Bridges. — General Interests. — Mid-
dlebury Village. — Physicians. — Quassepaug Lake. — Schools. — Religious
Interests. — Cemetery. — Biographical Sketches 757
CHAPTER XVIII.
THE TOWN OF SOUTHBURV.
Location and Description.— The Pootatuck Indians.— The Early Settlers. —
Civil Organization. — Business Interests. — South Britain. — Southford and
its Various Interests. — Physicians and Lawyers.— Religious Interests. —
Cemeteries.— Military Affairs.— Biographical Sketches 774
CHAPTER XIX.
THE TOWN OF WOLCOTT.
Settlement.— Civil Organization.— First Town Meeting.— Town Clerks.— Pub-
lic Green.— Public Highways.— Schools.— Industrial Interests.— Wolcott
Center. — Woodtick.— Physicians.— Religious Matters.— Cemeteries. —
Biographical Sketches 808
PORTRAITS.
Allerton , George M 736
Ailing, Charles B 434
Augur, Reuben N 95
Bartholomew, Arthur H 506
Bartholomew, Dana 504
Bartlett, Egbert ' g08
Bassett, Robert N 436
Bassett, Royal M ' 438
Beattie, John 166
TABLE OF CONTENTS. Vll
PAGE
Birdseye, Thomas S 442
Blake, Rufus W 444
Blakeman, George 446
Bristol, Charles E 510
Camp, Robert 768
Chaffee, Charles S 448
Clark, Charles E 450
Colburn, James M 452
Coupland, Charles 594
De Wolfe, Alva G 598
Fagan, James 732
Farrel, Franklin 512
French, Raymond 600
Gager , Edwin B 454
Gardner, John B 514
Gaylord, Charles W 66
Hall, Ransom B 825
Hallock, Edwin 456
Hill, Alden H 102
Holden, Frederick W 492
Jackson, Charles C 518
James, Thomas 604
Kellogg, Stephen W 688
Kingsbury, Frederick J 690
Leete, Calvin M 178
Leete, Rufus N 176
Lewis, Edward C 692
Limburner, Robert B 546
Lines, John M 304
Lounsbury, Charles H 606
Maltby, William H 104
Merwin, William M 272
Peck, George H 458
Peck, Henry H 694
Phillips, Albert W 460
Plant, Samuel 68
Piatt, Alfred L 696
Piatt, David 358
Plumb, David W 462
Rogers, Henry 70
Sanford, Samuel P 549
Schaffer, Frederick F 747
Schneller, George O 522
Shelton, Edward N 464
Smith, Charles H 748
Stevens, David S., Jr 106
Stiles, David J 802
Storrs, Carlos H 610
Swan, James 612
Tomlinson. Charles A 278
Torrance, David 466
Tuttle, Joel 182
Twitchell, Homer 752
viii TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGE
Upson, Evelyn M 826
Wallace, Thomas, Sr 468
Wallace, Thomas 528
Wallace, William 526
Ward, William 754
Wheeler, Elisha 806
Williams, William H 472
Wooster, William B 474
VIEW.
" Stillwood," Residence of John M. Lines 305
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
VOLUME II
CHAPTER I.
THE TOWN OF BRANFORD.
Settlement and Early History. — Civil Government. — Town Officers. — Town Buildings. —
Branford Borough. — Probate District. — Public Highways. — General Industrial In-
terests. — Branford Village. — Beach and Shore Resorts. — Stony Creek Village. —
Secret and Beneficial Orders. — The G. A. R. and the Soldiers' Monument. — Educa-
tion. — Congregational Church and Society. — Trinity (P. E.) Church. — Baptist
Church.— Methodist Church.— Lutheran Church.— St. Mary's (R. C.) Church. —
Cemeteries. — Biographical Sketches.
BRANFORD is one of the shore towns of the county. It is be-
tween seven and eight miles, along the sound, between Guil-
ford on the east and East Haven on the west. From North
Branford south to the coast line the distance is between four and five
miles. The surface is uneven, there being in some localities high
hills. Many of these having a smooth surface, are tillable to the sum-
mit. In the western part some of the Branford hills attain consider-
able elevation and are designated by local names. In the southeast
outcroppings of granite are manifest and the soil is less fertile than in
other localities. Along Stony creek that rock has been extensively
quarried for building purposes. That stream empties into the sound
at a cluster of numerous islands, several hundred in number, large and
small, called Thimble islands. Farther west is still another clus-
ter, called Indian islands. The streams are small, Branford river,
flowing through the central part, being the most important. Near the
sound its course is winding, and for several miles it is a tidal stream,
admitting vessels of from 50 to 75 tons burden. In the vales and low-
lands the soil is strong and very productive. It has been found, with
proper fertilization, to be admirably adapted for garden crops, and a
number of inhabitants have lately engaged in that pursuit. The up-
lands are better for grazing and fruit. Agriculture is still a leading
occupation of many citizens. Formerly property was much more
equalized than at present, and in consequence the town was long ex-
1
2 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
empt from an indigent population. In 1835, according to J. W. Bar-
ber", there was but one town pauper. In the last half century this con-
dition of things has been changed to a considerable extent by the in-
troduction of new industries and the use of much of the area for
suburban and summer residences.
Concerning the early settlers of the locality first known as Totoket*
there is much diversity of opinion. Some writers insist that the town
was depopulated by the going away of Mr. Pierson and his followers,
and Doctor Trumbull says that for a long time no organic existence
â– was maintained, Branford being reinvested with town privileges in
1685. These assertions do not appear to be sustained by the investi-
gations of the Reverend Elijah C. Baldwin, whose account of early
events is given in the following annals:
" In the month of December, 1638, the New Haven settlers bought
an additional tract of land of the Indians. It was ten miles in length,
north and south, and extended eight miles east of the Quinnipiac
river. It was bought of Montowese, son of Sowheog, the sachem of
Mattabeseck Indians. Sowheog was a powerful sachem. His fort
was at Middletown, on a hill, where, by means of his whistle, he could
call around him 500 warriors very quickly. His dominion embraced
a portion of this county. The Indians of Branford were governed by
his son. The deed was signed by Montowese and Sausounck. Their
tribe then was very small (ten men with their families). Montowese's
signature was a bow and arrow. Sausounck's was a rude hatchet.
This tract of land included the present territory of Branford. Its
boundaries were Lake Saltonstall and the river on the west, Stony
river (not Stony creek) on the east, the sound on the south, and a line
ten miles back from the sound on the north. The boundaries have
never varied much from these original lines. On the east, Guilford
has a small tract that once belonged to the original Branford. This
territory was then called Totoket, from the Indian name of a range of
hills in the northern part. Its shores were a favorite resort for the
Indians of the neighboring settlements, as well as of Totoket. Fish
and clams were abundant. For some years after its purchase little
use was made of it except for hunting. The Indians were allowed
to hunt and plant also. A few squatters occasionally pushed in along
the shore. Notable among these was a Thomas Mulliner, and he
thus became a cause of considerable trouble to the early settlers.
From him comes the name 'Mulliner's neck,' long applied to the
region now called 'Branford Point.'
"September 3d, 1640. the general court at New Haven made a
grant of Totoket to Mr. Samuel Eaton, brother of Governor The-
*Some writers interpret Totoket to mean " The place of the Tidal River,"
i.e., Branford river; others say with equal positiveness that the name was
derived from the range of mountains terminating in North Branford. The
present name, Branford, is said to have been derived from Brentford, a village
in England, where some of the early settlers lived before coming to America.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 3
•ophilus Eaton, upon the condition of his procuring a number of his
friends from England to settle on its lands. Mr. Eaton failed to
fulfill this condition. He went to England to procure settlers, but
never returned.
"In 1643 Totoket was granted to Mr. William Swaine and others
of Wethersfield. The record read thus: 'Totoket, a place fit for a
small plantation, betwixt New Haven and Guilford, and purchased
from the Indians, was granted to Mr.Swayne and some others of Weth-
ersfield, they repaying the charge which is betwixt 12 and 13/, and
joyning in one jurisdiction with New Haven and the forenamed plan-
tations, upon the same fundamental agreement settled in October,
1643, which they duely considering, readjlye accepted.'
"The removal from Wethersfield was the result of divisions in the
church there. There were several ministers in the Wethersfield
settlement. Each natiirally desired to be the minister, and each had
his special friends. They had not then learned the more modern pol-
icy of leaving each faction to gather around its own choice and sup-
port him as well as they could. They could support only one, but
which should he be ?
"Advice being sought from Davenport, of New Haven, and others,
a separation was advised. Some went to Stamford; others, and the
larger number, came to Bran ford.
" The men who had bought Totoket for a settlement came to oc-
cupy their purchase early in 1644. Their names were: Samuel Swaine,
William Swaine, Luther Bradfield, John Plum, Robert Abbott, John
Robbins, William Palmer, Samuel Nettleton, Roger Betts, John Lins-
ley, Robert Rose, John Morris, Michael Palmer, Francis Linsley.
Thomas Whitehead, John Hill, Daniel Dod, Richard Harrison, Sigis-
mond Richalls, Thomas Blachly, John Edwards, Robert Meaker, Rich-
ard Mather, Jonathan Sargent, Richard Williams, Jonathan England,
William Merchant, Edward Frisbie, John Horton, Samuel Pond,
Thomas Lupton, Richard Richards, Edward Treadway, Samuel Plumb
and Charles Taintor. These were mostly from Wethersfield.
" Thomas Mulliner was already on hand. And from New Haven
came Jasper Crane, Lawrence Ward, George Ward, Richard Lawrence
and Reverend John Sherman. Several had their wives and children
with them. These were the first year's inhabitants.
" Coming early in the year 1644, they began to clear off the forests,
build shelters for themselves and their cattle, prepare land for culti-
vation, gather hay from the fertile meadows, and organize society.
The abundance of shell fish found along the shores no doubt made it
comparatively easy to procure food. By the first of October they have
a minister who resides with them and serves them regularly; this was
Reverend John Sherman. He was born in Dedham, county of Essex,
England, December 26th, 1613. He entered the University of Cam-
bridge at an early age, but left college when ready for his degree, un-
4 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
der the character of a college puritan. In 1634-5 he came to New
England. He preached his first sermon at Watertown, Mass., under a
large tree. His preaching was much admired. One minister said:
' Brethren, we must look to ourselves and our ministry, for this young
divine will outdo us all.' He spent at least one year in Totoket. He
preached in several places. He also acted as judge and magistrate
for the colony. He died August 8th, 16S5. His great-grandson,
Roger Sherman, was one of the signers of the declaration of inde-
pendence.
" The new inhabitants make their first division of lands in June,
1644. This is the first thing recorded upon the ancient records of the
town. It reads thus: ' June 18th, 1644, this dai it is ordered that the
meadow in this plantation shall be divided into 4 parts, and then divided
by lott, viz.: all the meadow that lyeth on the right hand side of the
town that is earliest settled shall be in the first dividend, and all the
meadow that lyeth by the river on the left side and all upwards from
that place where it is considered a bridge must be, is for the 2d divi-
dend: Also 3dly all the meadow that lyeth downe the river from the
place where it was considered a bridge must be, and all that lyeth
within the compass of that piece of ground called the plaine shall be
in the 3d dividend. 4thly all the meadow left beside in the towne that
is knowne shall be in the 4th dividend. This meadow is to be bounded
and prized by Robert Rose, William Palmer, Samuel Swaine, John
Horton, Richard Harrison, and Thomas Blachly, with all convenient
speede, and then the lott to be cast.'
" The people first settled along the river, mostly on the western and
northern side. Indian Neck was left to the Indian inhabitants. The
new settlers very soon had trouble with Mulliner. The court record
is, ' 3d of Feb., 1644, Thos. Moulenor, sen'r, and Thomas Moulinor,
his son, being charged with sundry miscarryages and breach of peace
but nott issued. Itt was referred to another court and the meane time
it was ordered that they shall both enter into a recognisance of each
man 100 /, to keep the publique peace and be of the good behavior to-
wards all people, and especially towards the inhabitants of Totoket.'
"To show some of the vexations of that first year an instance is here
given. November 11th, 1644, 'Upon complaint made by some of the
planters of Totoket, that the Mohegin Indians have done much dam-
age to them by setting their traps in the walke of their cattell, itt was
ordered that the marshall shall goe with Thomas Whitway to warnne
Uncus or his brother, or else Foxen.to come and speake with the Gov-
ernor and the magistrates.'
" This name Foxen shows the origin of the title given to a well-
known section in the northwestern part of the town.
" Among the first buildings which the settlers put up were a house
for the minister, and a meeting house. The minister's house may
have been near the present residence of William Russell. The meet-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 5
ing house was built in the front part of the present burying yard. It
was a kind of block-house, and was surrounded by palisades, as a de-
fense against possible Indian attacks. During the hours of worship
some one or more of the settlers stood guard near the entrance of the
stockade. All carried their firearms when they went to meeting.
They were not afraid of Totoket Indians, but of raiding bands of other
tribes, who attacked Indians and whites alike in the town. It is a tra-
dition that the Totoket Indians had to resist attacks of that kind in
defense of their hunting and fishing grounds. A sort of fort was built
by them near the present residence of William Bryan (of the Monto-
wese Hotel), and once, at least, a sanguinary battle was fought there.
" The houses first built by the settlers were rude and small, — the
common houses of to-day are palaces in comparison, both in size and
appearance, and furniture. The work for both men and women was
hard. Their vigilance must be constant; their crops were meagre and
uncertain; their methods of cultivating the soil were rude; their tools
were few and clumsy. They also had to guard individuals from pur-
chasing or receiving gifts of land from any Indian without the con-
sent of the town. They also required all new-comers to agree to bear
their proportion of expenses for sustaining a minister.
" ' Samuel Swaine complayned of Mr. Mullyner for neglecting of
travnings, watchings, and bringing- of his arms when it was his turne
on the Lord's Days.' Mr. M. makes acknowledgment and promises to
do better.
" During the second and third years of life in this new settlement
a number of other families came in to join those already here. The
most notable of the new-comers was the Reverend Abraham Pierson,
from Southampton, Long Island. He came with his wife Abigail and
at least two children, one of which was a son Abraham, afterward the
first president of Yale College. Several other families came with him
or soon afterwards, from the same place. Reverend Abraham Pierson
was born in Yorkshire, England; he was graduated at the University
of Cambridge in 1632; he was Episcopally ordained while in England;
he preached for some years in his own country. He came to Boston
in 1639 and joined the church there. For a time he preached at Lynn,
Mass., where he was again ordained. In 1640 a portion of the inhab-
itants of Lynn, 'finding themselves straitened,' removed, with Mr.
Pierson, to Long Island. They made an ineffective attempt to settle
on the west end of the island. They then went to the east and settled
Southampton. When they came to decide whether they would be un-
der New Haven jurisdiction or that of Connecticut colony, the larger
part chose the latter, because, in their view, more liberal.
" Mr. Pierson and some others were dissatisfied, and, therefore, re-
moved to Totoket, which was under New Haven jurisdiction. Sprague
says, ' Mr. Pierson agreed with John Davenport in wishing to rest all
civil as well as ecclesiastical power in the church, and to allow none
6 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
but church members to act in the choice of the officers of government-
or to be eligible as such.' Accordingly, he desired to be under the
New Haven jurisdiction, which sustained this view of civil govern-
ment. Coming to Totoket he was chosen pastor. The people give
him a liberal share of the land and provide otherwise for his support.
This is seen by a record a little later. September 22d, 1650, ' It was
ordered that the minister's pay shall be brought each half year. For
every milch cow he shall have two pounds of butter, in part pay every
year; for the rest, for the first half year in beef, or pork, or Indian
corn, or wampum — for the second half year in wheat and pease, good
and marketable.'
"1659. February 24th. 'At a town meeting it was granted by the
consent of the town to Mr. Pierson that he shall have the use of the
whole five hundred pound lot that he has formerly used which is the
meadow of a two hundred pound lot that did not belong to his house
when he bought it; that was granted to him for as long as he shall live
in the town, and if he shall live in the town till his death then it is
given to his wife and his children for their use forever.' This will
show the requirements made upon new comers.
" It is evident that new settlers were coming every year, as new
names appear in the votes of the town and allotments of land. They
were so careful to secure uniformity of action, and to have each meas-
ure considered by all the people, they made strict rules concerning
attendance upon all their meetings. They laid heavy fines upon such
as neglected to attend when they were duly warned.
" There was no bell to sound out the call to meeting. A man was
therefore appointed to beat the drum as a call. One of the town
charges in that day was 3 shillings for a pair of drum sticks. In those
early days constant vigilance was required to guard against lawless
men and wild beasts.
" One of the town votes reads thus: 'June 24th, 1650, This day it is
ordered that if any man or woman, young or old, shall be taken by
the watch abroad in the night after ten of the clock, and cannot give
a sufficient reason therefor to the watch of their being abroad, shall
for every such fault pay 12 pence or other coudine punishment as the
court shall require.
" During these first ten years of their history the settlers were dis-
turbed by troubles with the Dutch. England was ruled by CromwelL
There was war between England and Holland. The Dutch were push-
ing their trading settlements all along the New England coast as well
as in New York and down the Atlantic coast. Of course the English
people here shared in the controversy. The Dutch made a short stop-
at Totoket, had a landing and are believed to have built a small trad-
ing house. Their 'stay was sufficient to give the name ' Dutch house
wharf to one of the river landings. The name is retained to this
day.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 7
"The early settlers were much engaged in traveling by water.
Coasters have always been a numerous and important class in Bran-
ford. It is recorded that in 1651 fifty men from New Haven and To-
toket. in attempting to settle their land at Delaware, were imprisoned
by the Dutch governor. The people here instituted vigorous meas-
ures to defend themselves from possible attacks from the Dutch.
But so serious did this matter become that, in 1653, New Haven and
Connecticut colonies united in an appeal to Cromwell for help against
the Dutch."
In spite of these apprehensions, it does not appear that the Dutch
injured any one at Bran ford, and in the main the town was as fairly
prosperous as any other community of like age in the country. The
principles and practices of Mr. Pierson's community had been estab-
lished, when the town was again agitated by the question of the union
of the colonies, and before it was decided affairs in Branford were
very much unsettled. How this matter affected the town is thus de-
scribed by Mr. Baldwin:
" From the first settlement of Connecticut by the English, in 1635,
little official correspondence passed between the settlers and the Eng-
lish government till 1661. Companies settled about where they chose.
The most of attention on the part of the British government to the
new colonies is ascribed to the civil troubles at home. King Charles
I. was dethroned and executed in 1649. Oliver Cromwell was made
protector in 1653; he died in 165S; his son Richard succeeded him, but
resigned in 1659. Charles II. ascended the throne in 1661. Soon fol-
lowed the dreadful revenges he took upon such as had been concerned
in removing his father. This furnished the romantic episode of the
long concealed regicides, Goffe, Whalley and Dixwell, so interesting
to all readers of our early history.
" The colonies of Connecticut and New Haven were separate gov-
ernments, though Connecticut claimed jurisdiction over the whole by
virtue of their first patent; there had been some talk between them
about it, but nothing decisive occurred until a new charter was ob-
tained from the new king. Then Connecticut purchased her claim of
jurisdiction and the New Haven towns were constrained, though with
sorrow, to submit.
" The coming of royal commissioners from England, in 1664, to
look after the king's interests here, hastened the union. There was
danger, if they continued divided, that the Duke of York's grant would
be purchased; this would have carried the boundary of New York to
the Connecticut river, and so left our state very small indeed. A
peaceable union saved the two colonies. But some could not be recon-
ciled to this change; Mr. Pierson and his friends were especially
grieved; they saw in this new jurisdiction the destruction of all their
hopes; they did not believe there could be a good and safe government
unless the voting and office holding were in the hands of professional
8 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Christian men. We can imagine the earnest and absorbing talk the
subject must have occasioned in these men's homes, both in week days
and on the Sabbath. Having spent so much labor in building houses,
fences, etc., having cleared the land, built bridges, mills, and so many
needed helpers to comfortable living, it was a serious matter to think
of leaving all, to go into another wilderness and begin again. The
labors of twenty-three years meant a great deal, yet their consciences
constrained them. They sent agents to examine and buy lands for
them on the Passaic river in New Jersey. Some persons from Guil-
ford and Milford shared in the proposed enterprise of a new settle-
ment.
" The agents having returned and made report of their commission,
a large number of the people of Branford held a meeting on the 30th
of October, 166G, which is thus noted: 'At a meeting touching the in-
tended design of many of the inhabitants of Branford, the following
was subscribed: Deut. 1. 13; Ex. xviii, 21; Deut. xvii, 15; Jer. xxxvi, 21.
1. That none shall be admitted free-men or free burgesses within our
town upon Passaic River, in the Province of New Jersey, but such
planters as are members of some or other of the Congregational
churches, nor shall any but such be chosen to magistracy or to carry
on any part of civil judicature, or as deputies or assistants to have
power to vote in establishing laws, and making or repealing them, or
to any chief military trust or office, nor shall any but such church
members have any vote in any such elections; though all others ad-
mitted to be planters have right to their proper inheritance, and do
and shall enjoy all other civil liberties and privileges according to all
laws, orders, grants which are, or shall hereafter be made for this
town. 2. We shall, with care and diligence, provide for the mainten-
ance of the purity of religion professed in the Congregational churches.'
Whereunto subscribed the inhabitants from Branford: Jasper Crane,
Abra. Pierson, Samuel Swaine, Lawrence Ward, Thomas Blatchley,
Samuel Plum, Josiah Ward, Samuel Rose, Thomas Pierson, John
Ward, John Catling, Richard Harrison, Ebenezer Canfield, John Ward,
Sen., Ed. Ball, John Harrison, John Crane, Thomas Wrentington, De-
livered Crane, Aaron Blatchley, Richard Lawrence, John Johnson,
Thomas Lyon (his L. mark). — 23.
' Most of these signers moved with Mr. Pierson to Newark (New-
work). They comprised many of the most prominent inhabitants
of Branford. They went by vessel down Long Island sound.
This is the way most of the first settlers came to Branford. Those
from Wethersfield came down the Connecticut river and along the
shore; those from Southampton and New Haven also came by water
in most cases. They built and used small coasting vessels from the
first.
•' We have evidence that Branford was by no means depopulated ;
the town records were not removed; other settlers came in, buying and
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 9
occupying the houses and lands of such as had removed. Some that
had proposed to go, not making a favorable sale of their property, de-
cided to remain. Mr. Pierson engaged the Reverend John Bowers to
preach to those who remained, and he paid him to the end of the year
1666."
Newark was the third colony Mr. Pierson helped to plant. Now
he sat down under a code of laws of his own choice, with his hopes
realized, and remained with his people until his death, August 9th,
1678.
" Though so many had removed, the rest showed they were not
discouraged. June 20th, 1667, they met and took vigorous measures
to rally the planters to hope and courage. They voted and put on
record this agreement: ' Forasmuch as that it appears that the under-
taking and the settlement of this place of Branford was procured by
and for men of Congregational principles, as to church order, accord-
ing to the platform of discipline agreed on by the synod of 48, or
thereabouts, drawn from the word of God in the main; we, that yet
remain here, can say that we have found much peace and quietness, to
•our great comfort, for the which we desire to bless God; and that it
may so remain to such as do continue their abode in this place, and to
•such as shall come in to fill up the rooms of those that are removed,
and that do intend to remove from this place of Branford. We all do
see cause now for to agree that an orthodox minister of that judgment
shall be called to it and among us. The gathering of such a church
shall be encouraged. The upholdment of such church officers shall
not want our proportional supply of maintenance, according to rule.
We will not in any wise encroach upon or disturb their liberties in so
walking from time to time, and at all times: nor will we be in any
ways injurious to them in civil or ecclesiastical respects. And this we
freely and voluntarily engage ourselves unto, jointly and severally, so
long as we remain inhabitants of this place, and this we bind our-
selves unto by our subscription to this agreement. It is also agreed
that whoever shall come for purchase or to be admitted or planted
here, shall so subscribe before admittance or his bargain be valid in
law among us.' Jasper Crane, Jonathan Rose, John Wilford, Thomas
Blatchly, Samuel Plum, Michael Taintor, John Collins, Michael Pal-
mer, John Ward, John Linsley, George Adams, John Whitehead,
Samuel Ward, Edward Frisbie, Henry Gretwich, Matthew Biskatt,
Thomas Harrison, Thomas Wheadon, John Robing, Robert Foote,
George Page, Thomas Gutsill, Samuel Swaine, Samuel Pond, Isaac
Bradley, William Rosewell, Peter Tyler, John Anams, Moses Blachly,
John Frisbie, William Maltbie, Bartholomew Goodrich, Sigismond
Richalls, George Seward, Edward Ball, William Hoadley, Eleazer Stent,
John Rogers, Samuel Bradfield, John Charles, Edward Barker, An-
thony Hand, Thomas Sargent, Daniel Swaine, John Linsley, Jr., John
Rose. John Taintor, Francis Linsley — 48. Six of the signers of this
10 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
agreement afterward went to Newark. John Wilford, Thomas
Blatchly, John Collins and Michael Taintor are put forward as leaders.
They are directed to buy Richard Harrison's house and lands for a
minister. The people pledge themselves to pay for them. They re-
quire all new-comers to do the same."*
In addition to those who removed or remained, it is known that 26
persons died before 1(566, which would indicate that while the popula-
tion of Branford was not as great as that of some other towns, at that
period, the improvements must have been of considerable importance.
New and desirable settlers were added yearly, and under the more
liberal policy of the united colonies, the work of development was car-
ried forward. Of the new men who settled here was William Rose-
well, a merchant in New Haven. December, 24th, 1672, the town gave
him, " in consideration of his setting up a saw mill upon Beaver brook
and selling the people boards and timber at a specified price, the priv
ilege of cutting the wood he needed for timber, etc., provided he cut
none within a mile of the furnace pond. Mr. Rosewell built a house
about where Mrs. Peggy Fowler now lives. He gave it to his wife,
Catherine (Russell) as a marriage portion. He continued to buy land
of different parties until he owned a large estate. He was also en-
gaged in trade between New England and Barbadoes. He probably
had vessels built for his trade near Peggy Fowler's. He died July
19th, 1674. His widow died in 1698. Of their three children only one,
a daughter, outlived the parents.
" John and Noah Rogers came from Long Island, and were sons of
William Rogers of Southampton and Hempstead; Eleazer Stent came
from New Haven with his mother and sisters. His father was a
Protestant minister who had sailed from England for Virginia. He
died on the passage. His family afterward came to New Haven. His
widow married Thomas Beaumond. She was again a widow when the
family came to Branford. She again married Thomas Harrison, of
Branford. Eleazer Stent was in Branford as early as 1667. He was a
freeman in 1672; was granted six acres as a home lot. It was between
the Russell place and ' fig lane,' going back to the river, not on the
highway at first. He was soon made town clerk, to assist John Wil-
ford. He continued after Wilford died, and for many years. In 1683
he was granted a small piece of land near ' Little Plain brook.' 1687,
March 4th, he was granted ten acres at ' dirty swamp, along Guildford
old road;' was chosen ' commissioner ' May 3d, 1688; same day was given
six acres upon the hill west of Brushy plain, on condition of his giving
up six acres of ' dirty swamp.' John Plant, to whom, 1683, February,
the town gave six acres upon Mulliner's hill. His son, James,
was born February 22d, 1685. February 4th, 1688, the town gave John
Plant six acres more on the ' half way hill,' that is half way to ' iron
works.'
* Baldwin.
HISTORY OF NEW KAVEN COUNTY. . 11
" Isaac Bradley, who came from New Haven and settled near Stony
river, and was granted land. The ' Bradley farm,' near the East
Haven line, south of the main road, was long owned by his family.
"John Collins, a shoemaker, came from Guilford. George Bald-
win, a blacksmith, came from Milford. 1688, October 4th, the town
gave him ' Sawpit's ' lot, also land at ' Cattholes,' also swamp between
' the narrow of dirty swamp and world's end path.' In 1691 the town
gave him five or six acres below Brushy plain. In 1694, August 14th,
he was also chosen constable, and to ' beat the drum ' for Sabbath and
other meetings. He was paid thirty shillings for it. In 1697 he was
chosen collector of taxes.
" Richard Towner. His first grant near Canoe brook, 1690. April
8th, he changed his land ' near Bartholomew Goodrich, at the old mill
brook.' 1692, November 2d, he was chosen to have the oversight of
young people on Sabbath days. He gave name to ' Towner's hill.'
William Bartholomew was here and agreed to build a corn mill.
Thomas Gutsell was settled near Branford Point; from him came the
name 'Goodsell's Point.' His wife Ruth (Butler) deserted him, going
off to Providence, R. I., with Joseph Woodward.
" During these years the town kept up a ' train band.' 1687, April
5th, town agreed to furnish a silk flag for the soldiers, paying Edward
Johnson for work upon it.
"John Blakiston came here soon after 1700; he was a mariner. He
began to buy land near the present Blackstoneville, and continued,
from year to year, until he was one of the largest landholders in the
town. He is believed to have been the grandson or great-grandson of
the William Blackstone who built the first house in Boston, Mass. He
then owned much of the land upon which the present city of Boston
is built. Boston preserves the name in one of her streets. He is also
believed to have been a near relative of Sir William Blackstone of
England, a name so well known and honored.
" This John Blackiston came over from Rhode Island. Tradition
relates that his marriage was not agreeable to his friends, or his wife's
friends, so the young people resolved to make a new home for them-
selves in this town. All the Blackstones of Branford were and are his
descendants. Much of the land originally purchased by the first John
Blackiston, is still retained in the Blackstone family of to-day. Rhode
Island and Massachusetts have their Blackstone river, Blackstone canal
and town of Blackstone. This name has been closely identified with
the important interests of Branford for 150 years. It has also sent out
honored branches to other places."
Near the same time (1700), Reverend Gurdon Saltonstall came to
Branford and married Elizabeth, daughter of William Rosewell, the
trader and ship builder, and who had left a large estate in the town.
In 1707 he was elected governor of the colony, and was reelected until
his death, in 1725. Soon after being elected governor he built a large
12 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
mansion on the Rosewell property, near the Furnace pond, which he
occupied most of the time, living at New London the remainder of
the time, and was buried at the latter place. From the fact of his resi-
dence here Saltonstall lake took its name. The house is still standing
and was for many years one of the grandest on the shore, being fitted
up in a style becoming the station of a governor.
Nathaniel Johnson was another important settler after 1700. He
was a merchant from the old country, and brought much wealth to the
town, which he invested in lands. " He bought the two hundred acres
that had been given to Thomas Mulliner, Jr., in the northwest cor-
ner of the town. Mulliner and his wife moved to Westchester, N.Y.,
and the name ceased here. Mr. Johnson is believed to have built the
house that stood where Mrs. Peggy Fowler now lives. It was burned,
with all the barns near it, about sixty years ago. It made so large and
hot a fire the people had great difficulty in saving the other houses in
the street. Samuel Barker was another wealthy man who came about
the same time. His first purchase was 42 acres at ' Littleworth,' of
Philip Pond in 1734. He gave the Reverend Mr. Robbins five acres
.the same year. Mr. Barker is believed to have built the house still
standing on Cherry hill. That house was finely finished and furnished
for its day. It had pictured tiles around its fire places. Some of those
tiles are still to be seen. Some are preserved by the family of James
F. Morris, who once owned the place. The place was sold to Ralph
Isaacs, a man of some considerable fame in this place during the war
of the revolution. His daughter married an Ingersoll, and became
the mother of the Iugersolls now so well known in New Haven.
Another family of note coming here about the same time was the
Gould family. That family furnished the physicians for Branford for
about 100 years. They are believed to have built the house that stood
between the present Stedman and Robinson places on the Main street.
Richard Gould, M. D., came to America from North Country, County
Devon, parish of Oakhampton. He was born April 28th, 1662. He
â– died March 9th, 1746, aged 84.
" William Gould, his son, was born at the same place February 11th,
1693. He was a physician here July 2d, 1757. He had three wives and
ten children. His son, William Gould, Jr., M.D.,was born here Novem-
ber 17th, 1727, and died July 29th, 1805. He had a son, Orchard Gould,
M.D., who was born March 1st, 1764, and died February 4th, 1819. His
brother, James Gould, was an eminent lawyer and judge for many years.
His sister, Elizabeth, was the wife of Hon. Roger M. Sherman, of Fair-
field. Mrs. Mary Daniels, who built the house where Mr. Henry Nich-
ols now lives, was a daughter of Doctor Orchard Gould."
James Gould was born in Branford December 5th, 1770; graduated
from Yale in 1794, and received degree of LL.D. in 1819. He was one
â– of the most learned men of his times, and his contributions to litera-
ture are chaste and elegant to an unusual decree.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 13
" Richard Gould, M.D., must have practiced medicine here for a
number of years. He was much esteemed, as is evident from his being
elected tythingman in 1728. Only the most dignified and trusted men
were chosen to this office in that day. William Gould, his son, pur-
chased several tracts of land at Paved street and Hopyard plain. Some
of that land is still owned by Elias Gould, the only male descendant
of the name now living in Branford.
" Another physician lived in Branford at that time — Isaac Barthol-
omew, M.D. He became a large owner of land, buying a great deal
at Hopyard plain. This name has been a prominent one in Branford
since the first William Bartholomew, who built the first dam and the
first corn mill on the Branford river. It used to be pronounced ' Bot-
tlemy,' or ' Barthlemy.'
" John Guy and Orchard Guy are. the first names of another some-
what influential family. John Guy, in 1723, buys Eleazer Stent's place,
near the town street. Orchard Guy, a little later, has a house near the
place where Charles Wilford now lives.
" October 10th, 1737, Andrew Beach, of Fairfield, buys an acre of
land, a house and barn at Mill plain, of Archibald McNeil. The house
was evidently built by McNeil. The place is now owned and lived in
by Timothy Palmer and family.
" The land just north was owned by Roger Tyler. Mr. Jordan
Rogers owned what Mr. Timothy Palmer's new house stands on. Mr.
Andrew Beach is believed to be the ancestor of all the Branford
Beaches. He was a ' cordwainer ' — what we now call a shoemaker.
Archibald McNeil may have built that old house. He bought and sold
several places, and is believed to have built several houses. He once
owned a house that stood about between Hattie Hoadley's house and
the Blackstone house.
" In 1734 Ephraim Parish bought of Solomon Palmer five and a
half acres of land and a new house-frame and a barn. Mr. Palmer had
bought the land of Bezaleel Tyler. It is the place so long the home
of Reverend Timothy O. Gillett and wife. Mr. Parish built the house;
he had a son, Ephraim, and a grandson, Russell Parish. This Russell
sold it to Reverend T. O. Gillett in 1811. Russell Parish had kept a
hotel there for a number of years.
" In 1733, William Barker sold a piece of his home lot to Reverend
Philemon Robbins. It was on ' Pig lane,' or Barker's lane, and known
as Foot's lot. That is probably the lot on which the Reverend Mr.
Robbins built his house. This lane ran down to the meadows, both
east and west of what is now the main road. It ran by the south side of
William Averill's house, and south of the Catholic church on the west
side of the street. There were houses on that lane, one supposed to
be the first Stent house, down at the east end of the meadow; another
half way to the road, believed by some to be the first Robert Foote
house.
14 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
" There was a road in those early days which commenced back of
Mrs. Peggy Foster's house, and ran along the meadow up to the main
road, back of the Baptist church. There were at least three houses on
that road— one close to the railroad, said to have been the first frame
house in Branford; another about west of Captain William Averill's
place; another west of Mr. John Foot's place. Another road turned
west from this last, near the Stent lot, and followed the meadows round
to Page's Point.
" In December, 1736, Samuel Stent died. He had been a public-
spirited and useful man; he left money to the church and ^10 to the
town for the care of the poor. This sum was loaned on interest by the
selectmen. As it ceased to appear in any reports after a few years, it
was probably lost. During these years, from 1735 to the first years of
the war of the revolution, Branford rapidly grew in population and
wealth. The land was taken up and cleared and cultivated over a
great part of its surface. Many vessels were built and quite a foreign
trade grew up. A new wharf was built at the Dutch House landing,
by Samuel Barker, in the year 1752.
" The whole territory of Branford belonged to those who were pro-
prietors at the time of obtaining the patent, and such as they sold to.
When a new settler came and bought, he shared in whatever new di-
visions of unappropriated lands were made. There were three divisions
before the year 1700. There were four more before 1750. The greater
part of all Branford territory was taken up between 1700 and 1740.
The fourth division took up most of the present territory of North
Branford. The fifth division took a great part of Stony Creek section.
There were meetings of the proprietors separate from the town meet-
ings. These continued even down to within the memory of some now
living. Their records show to whom each parcel of land was origi-
nally given. In assigning land, they left places for roads to such land;
these were the highways, and they were few. Most of the roads now
in use have been opened during the last sixty years.
" In Branford, as in some of the other towns, slavery was a recog-
nized institution, Indians and negroes being sold in bondage. The
more wealthy families had usually two or more colored men and
women. These servants, as they were called, were often a very inter-
esting part of the household."
" Among the foregoing Richard Harrison came to Branford about
1650, and died in 1653. One of his sons, Richard, removed to New
Jersey in 1666. It is supposed that the family came from Virginia and
was connected with the Harrisons of that state. Thomas Harrison,
another son of Richard, remained in the town. He had five sons, who
left numerous descendants, among them being Governor Henry B.
Harrison, Hon. Lynde Harrison and others. One of the five sons,
Thomas, and his son, Nathaniel, and grandson, Nathaniel, Jr., were
very prominent men in their day, filling many positions of honor and
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 15
trust. The Harrison family is still numerously and honorably repre-
sented in Branford and North Branford."
Another settler of prominence was William Maltby, who for along
time was one of the iustices of the quorum and was usually called
Judge Maltby. Samuel Maltby graduated from Yale, and also became
prominent in affairs. Most of this family removed.
Captain William Hoadley, born about 1630, and supposed to have
been a brother of Reverend John Hoadley, of Guilford (who returned
to England in 1650), was an early merchant of Branford. He left a
large family, and from them have descended members who attained
honorable distinction; as Governor George Hoadley of Ohio, Charles
J. Hoadley, LL. D., state librarian; David Hoadley, the architect, and
his son David, president of the Panama railroad, and others who were
active in the town's affairs.
Edward Barker was one of the leading men in the western part of
the town. His son, Samuel, graduated from Yale, and bore the title
of Mister. One of his sons, Samuel S., who graduated from Yale in
1772, was an officer in the revolution, resigning as major in 1782.
Both he and his father removed to Beekman, N. Y., where he died in
1819.
Noah Rogers, another early prominent settler, also had a grandson,
Captain Edward Rogers, who took an active part in the revolution.
Removing to New York, his son, Edward, became a member of Con-
gress after 1840.
Colonel Edward Russell, a son of Mr. John Russell, one of the lead-
ing public men in his time, was a captain in Colonel Douglass' regi-
ment, in 1776, and the same year became a major in General Wooster's
â– command. In 1778 he received the rank of colonel and did much
service in the war.
An idea of the names of many of the citizens of Branford may be
obtained from the following lists, which have been compiled from the
town books, in the periods named, where they were registered as own-
ers of ear marks for their cattle :
1747: Nathaniel Page, Benjamin Barnes, Ebenezer Harrison, John
Parrish, Joel Parrish, Nathan Goodrich, Abraham Foote, Nathaniel
Butler, Isaac Harrison, Daniel Hoadley, Nathaniel Frisbie.
1748: Samuel Barker, Thomas Rogers, William Barker, Benjamin
Palmer, John Butler, John Potter, Josiah Harrison, Daniel Harrison,
Wheeler Brown, Samuel Palmer, Aaron Baldwin, Eiios Barnes, Joseph
Page.
1749: Elisha Frisbie, Daniel Page, Noah Frisbie, Daniel Butler,
Eliphalet Howd, James Barker, Samuel Rose, Isaac Hoadley, Daniel
Otis.
1750: John Ford, Joseph Palmer, Abel Butler, Josiah Butler, Sam-
uel Butler, Asa Leete, David Leavitt, Eleazer Stent, Samuel Stent,
Samuel Kirkham, Abraham Hoadley.
16 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
1751: Benjamin Bartholomew, Daniel Rogers, Joseph Bartholomew,
Daniel Bradley, Samuel Russell, Jehiel Whedon, Samuel Maltbie,
[ohn Russell, Edward Russell, Joshua Dudley.
1752: Daniel Johnson, Timothy Harrison, Samuel Rose, Elnathan
Beach, John Plant, Abraham Plant, Samuel Barker, Abraham Har-
rison.
1 7.13: Stephen Blackstone, Jacob Hoadley, Samuel Rogers, Josiah
Fowler, Ebenezer Linsley, Edward Brockway, Silas Parker, David
Tyler, Benjamin Plant, Richard Towner, Jonathan Plant, John Smith,
Elisha Smith, Jonathan Russell, Jr., Nathaniel Taintor, Thomas
Gould.
1754: John Johnson, David Hudson, Ebenezer Russell, Jonathan
Whedon, John Linsley, Jr., Stephen Harrison, Joseph Rogers, Eben-
ezer Hoadley, Daniel Baldwin, Stephen Foote, Joseph Wilford, James
Hoadley.
1756: James Baldwin, Daniel Palmer, Jacob Palmer, David Hudson.
1757: Phineas Baldwin, David Foote, Jr., William Gould, Ebenezer
Foote.
175S: Joseph Finch, Reuben Whedon, Nathaniel Goodrich, Timothy
Frisbie, Amos Seward, Josiah Parrish, Thomas Frisbie.
1759: John Barnes, Richard Baldwin, David Linsley, David Good-
rich, John Welford, Joseph Tyler, Joseph Tyler, Jr., Jonathan Good-
sell.
1760: Samuel Barker, 2d, Isaac Palmer, Jeremiah Woolut, Nathan-
iel Harrison, John Welford, Jr., Abel Page, William Harrison.
1761: Papillon Barker, Edward Rogers, Samuel Baldwin. Abijah
Hobart, Thomas Norton.
1762: Reverend Warham Williams, Jacob Linsley, Ephraim Foote,
Samuel H. Torrey, Nathan Foote, Timothy Hoadley, Wilkinson Howd,
Obadiah Winters, Abraham Rogers, John Blackiston, Jr.
1763: Ralph Hoadley, Isaac Linsley, Thomas Stent, Eli Rogers,
John Rose, Solomon Rose.
1764: Isaac Foote, Obed Linsley, John Harrison, Rufus Palmer,
Noah Baldwin, Jr.
1765: Ezekiel Hays, George Baldwin, Timothy Russell, Edward
Barker, Timothy Palmer, Samuel Still, Othniel Stent, Jeremiah Scar-
ritt, Minor Merrick.
1766: Solomon Tyler, Benjamin Linsley, Ebenezer Truesdell,
Thomas Russell, Jared Robinson, Peter Harrison, Bille Rose.
1767: Isaac Tyler, Stephen Potter, Zaccheus Baldwin, Bartholomew
Goodrich, Timothy Goodrich, Samuel Russell, Jr., Amos Harrison.
1768: Jonathan Linsley, Rufus Hoadley, Samuel Buel, Asa Foote,
John Butler, 2d, Samuel Harrison, Jr., Orchard Guy, Samuel Maltbie,
Jonathan Truesdell, Joseph Chidsey.
1769: Samuel Hoadley, Judah Howd, Ozias Tyler, John Negus,
Joseph Page, Joel Rogers, John Stent.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 17
1770: Jared Barker, Roger Tyler, Samuel Ford, Josiah Harrison,
Jonathan Tyler, Peter Tyler, Jason Rogers, Ephraim Beach, Jareb
Palmer, Jabez Palmer, Rufus Palmer, Nicholas Palmer, William Good-
rich, Bille Tyler, Samuel Byington, Elisha Barker, Reuben Page.
1771: Daniel Page, James Maltbie.Timothy Hoadley, Enoch Staples,
Jonathan Maltbie, Bernard Lintot, Samuel Hand, Samuel Eells.
1772: Samuel Page, Jr., Edward Mulford, Russell Barker, Rogers
Tyler, Jairus Bunnell, Edward Stent, Benjamin Tyler, Samuel
Whedon.
1773: Jonathan Beers, Freeman Crocker, Ebenezer Rogers, David
Rose, John Johnson.
1774: Samuel Foote, David Harrison, Jr., Asahel Tyler, Obadiah
Tyler, William Douglas, Jeremiah Johnson, John Monroe.
1775: Elihu Stone, John Harrington, Hezekiah Palmer, Abijah
Rogers, Ammi Harrison, Peter Harrison, Ichabod Culpepper, Joseph
Rogers, Jr., William Monroe.
1776: Jonathan Towner, Jonathan Bartholomew, Samuel Tyler,
Ebenezer Beach, Matthew Butler, Isaac Hotchkiss, Benjamin Hoadley,
Israel Baldwin, Israel Linsley, Elihu Linsley, Timothy Barker, Jr.,
Aaron Morris, Jesse Stent, Ransom B. Harlow, Solomon Goodrich,
Samuel Howe, Samuel Howe, Jr., Solomon Talmadge, John Butler,
3d, Major Edward Russell, John Russell, Joseph Parmalee, Timothy
Parmalee.
1777: Timothy Chidsey, Barnabas Palmer, Collins Page, Isaac In-
graham, James Goodrich, Estus Barker, Michael Taintor, Jr., Medad
Taintor, Jonathan Towner, Ephraim Parrish, Lemuel Johnson, Cor-
nelius Johnson, Samuel Griffing, Artemas Johnson.
1778: Elnathan Tyler, Amaziah Rose, Gideon Goodrich, Jr., Rose-
well Chidsey, Robert Olds, Hooker Frisbie, Benjamin Maltbie, Zaccheus
Maltbie.
1779: Edwin Harrison, Rufus Linsley, Nathan Rose, Wooster Har-
rison, Isaac Smith, Elihu Rogers, Oliver Lanfair, John Augur, Malachi
Rogers, Benjamin Barker.
1780: William Scott, William McQueen, Captain Benjamin Baldwin,
John Rogers, Captain Reuben Rose.
Some doubt attaches to the early records of the town, and it is
questioned whether they are complete. Certainly, on some points,
they are obscure and imperfectly preserved. But it is not true, as is
often said, that the early Branford records were carried to Newark,
New Jersey, when Mr. Pierson and his adherents removed thither, in
1666-7. John Plum, the first clerk, died in Branford in 1658, and his
successor gathered up his accounts and preserved them as well as he
could, after he had copied them. These records of Eleazer Stent show
nice care in the writing, but their orthography is in the peculiar style
of two hundred years ago. Most of the early records pertain to affairs
of the planters in relation to the allotment and disposition of lands,
2
18 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
the care of the herds and flocks, and the support of a minister, as
examples:
"December 15th, 1645. This day it was ordered that Mr. Sher-
man should be allowed a year, to begin from the 1st of October,
1644."
" This day it was ordered by the inhabitants of this place (com-
monly called Totokett), that John Plum shall keep the town books.
It is ordered, also, that all the inhabitants shall give in their estate
unto John Plum by the 25th of this month, and the second day of
the week next following all the inhabitants are to meet at Mr.
Sherman's house by eight of the clock, upon the penalty of losing
of twelve pence."
"December the 28th, 1645. It is ordered this day that Mr. Pal-
mer, Mr. Swaine, Samuel Swaine and John Plum shall go to-morrow
to New Haven to meet Mr. Mulliner at the Governor's, to agree
upon a way both for Mr. Mulliner, the accommodating and voting,
and any other difference that is between him and the town. It is
ordered, also, that any one under a 100th shall be accommodated
according to that rule that Mr. Sherman, Mr. Swaine, Goodman, Rose,
and John Plum did bring in. Those that have a 100j bond accord-
ing to the former order. Moreover, it is ordered that Mr. Palmer,
in consideration of some former expense and also for the good serv-
vices he has done the town, and also for the public business
that he is to do the town for one year following as they call him
thereunto, he is to have that piece of meadow which lyeth at the
end or side of his lot to the neck, and also upland apportionable
to it."
This shows that Mr. Palmer was the first town agent chosen.
" The 2nd month, the 10th day, 1646. This day it was agreed by
the town and Francis Linsley that the said Francis shall keep the
heard of cows and heifers from the 16th of this month to the 16th of
the 9th, and he to call for them by the sun half an hour high in the
morning and to bring them home at that time in the evening, and he
must blow a horn, or make some other noise, before he come in the
morning and also in the evening, that we may be ready to turn them
out of our yards, and to return them in the evening." They further
arrange that he is to have one Sabbath out of four. If any of the cat-
tle get lost he is to look for them four days, with a man to help, at his
own charge.
Another important public measure was the surrounding the town
or much'of it by a strong fence.
; ' The 16th of the 9th month, 1646. This dai it is ordered that there
shall a fence be made from the sea, beginning near that neck where
Thos. Mulliner sometime dwelt, to run about five miles to the sea near
a place where the Indians now dwell. And four miles of this fence is
to be done according as it shall fall to men by lott. And the first lott
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 19
that shall be drawn is to begin within one-quarter of a mile next that
part of the sea first mentioned, and so every one shall do his part ac-
cording as he shall be drawn, as he that is drawn first shall make first,
so every one severally shall do it according as their name shall be
drawn then following. And the rest that remains shall be done in
generall. This fence is to be finished by the first of May next, and no
man is to take any timber but right against his fence. And whoever
defaults of not doing by the time appointed every one shall forfeit to
the town two shillings per pound a rod or span or pole. And for every
day after this it shall not be done every one that is defective shall pay
sixpence a day for every rod or span or pole until it be made, and also
pai the damages that shall come whoever defaults of not making. The
fence is to be 4 feet 2 inches. It is to be a log fence."
" The 27th of the 3d month 1647. This day it is agreed between
the Townsmen of Totokett and John Edwards of Wethersfield, of Con-
necticut, that the said John Edwards hath agreed to pay all the
charges that have arose within the said Totokett from the beginning
of the plantation unto this present day, with equal proportion with
each man according to estate he gave in both for himself and his son
and that as well in respect of joyning the preaching of the word of
God as all other common charges that have occurred to this planta-
tion."
Many domestic matters were very carefully regulated, the most
explicit rules being adopted in the town meetings. If, for instance, a
man wanted to own a gun, he had to secure the town's consent. De-
cember 31st, 1718, " Charles Tyler asked for that liberty, but the town
thought it would not be safe and voted in the negative."
A demand having been created for various products of the town,
their shipment was regulated. February 6th, 1717, the town votes that
none should be allowed to cut staves on the town's land without
special permission from the town. About this time (1717) the town
had to regulate the gathering of " bayberries." These small, waxy
balls, found on bushes, were useful in making wax. This wax entered
into the manufacture of several very useful articles — especially of
blacking and salve. It continued to be an article of trade in Branford'
down to within the last fifty years. In 1717 the town forbid the gath-
ering of these berries on the highways and common before Septem-
ber 15th. A fine of ten shillings was exacted for each violation of
the law.
A deed from the Indians for all the lands in Branford bounds was
secured in 1685, and February 16th that year the town received its
patent from the colony. It was signed by Governor Robert Treat, and
was granted Mr. William Rosewell, Ensign Thomas Harrison, William
Hoadley, Samuel Pond, Edward Barker, William Maltby, Lieutenant
Eleazer Stent, John Frisby and John Tayntor, representing all the
settlers. Both instruments were properly recorded July 13th, 1719.
20 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Since the war for the Union among the first selectmen have been:
John Bishop, David Beach, Henry E. Towner, Thomas S. McDermott,
John Plant, George H. Page, J. August Blackstone, Richard S. Bradley,
William R. Foote and Daniel O. Brien.
In the same period the town treasurers were: Elizur Rogers, Eli F.
Rogers, and the past thirteen years, Henry H. Stedman.
John Plum was the first town clerk, and left papers which Eleazer
Stent afterward copied. None of Mr. Plum's writings have been
found. He died in 1648, and John Wilford was chosen in his place.
Succeeding him the town clerks served until the years set after their
names: Eleazer Stent, to 1705; William Maltbie, 1710; John Russell,
1712; Nathaniel Harrison, 1714; John Russell, 1721; Samuel Maltbie,
1746; John Russell. 1747; Israel Baldwin, 1748; John Russell, 1754;
Nathaniel Harrison, 1758; Samuel Barker, 1775; William Monroe,
1776; Samuel Barker, 1781; Edward Russell, 1794; Samuel Gould, 1798;
Orchard Gould, 1818; Samuel Frisbie, 1824; John Barker, 1825; Samuel
Frisbie, 1839; William Tyler, 1841; William R. Frisbie, 1843; Wil-
loughby L. Lay, 1847; Orrin D. Squire, 1858; Samuel Beach, 1861; J.
E. Russell, 1866; A. M. Babcock, 1867; Elizur Rogers, 1870; Eli F.
Rogers, 1876; Henry H. Stedman, 1891, deceased the same year and
was succeeded by Walter Foote.
The town hall at Branford is a large, two-story frame building,
centrally located on the green. It was erected in 1857, thoroughly re-
paired in 1869, and placed in good condition since that time. In 1875
a fine safe, manufactured at Branford by James E. Russell, was placed
in the office of the town treasurer.
The town prison or lockup was erected in the rear of the town hall
in 1878-9. It is a small, strong stone building and cost $1,100.
The town poor farm was purchased in 1874, at a cost of $3,200. It
was thereafter greatly improved.
By an act of the general assembly, January 15th, 1874, the town
was divided into two voting districts — Branford and Stony Creek. In
1890 the latter had about one hundred voters, or about one-eighth of
the whole number of polls cast.
An act of the general assembly, July 25th, 1867, authorized the in-
corporation of Branford village as a borough, and the matter of or-
ganization was placed in the hands of John R. Holcomb, Samuel E.
Linsley and Elizur Rogers. A board of officers was elected the fol-
lowing September, but the organization was soon dropped. In 1883
the privileges of the act were revived and another election was or-
dered to be called by Samuel E. Linsley and T. F. Hammer. But
this, like the former movement in this direction, was also void of prac-
tical results.
The affairs of the town are carried on at a yearly outlay of about
$17,000, about one-seventh of that amount being used for the mainte-
nance of the poor. There was, in 1890, a debt of $31,470.97, $30,000
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 21
of which was bonded. The grand list of the previous year was $1,-
581,618, and the rate of taxation 12 mills.
The Branford Probate District was established in 1850, when it was
set off from the Guilford district. The first court was held July 8th,
1850, Levi S. Parsons being the judge, and Ebenezer B. Barker the
clerk. The subsequent judges have been the following: 1S53, O. D.
Squire; 1854. John J. Bartholomew; 1863, J. E. Russell; 1869, Edward
R. Landon, of Guilford, acting judge; 1870, Eli F. Rogers; 1879, Henry
H. Stedman.
It has been stated that when the proprietors laid out the land they
usually made allowance for roads, but evidently there were no fenced
roads for many years after the town was settled. Fences were gradu-
ally made, as different persons found it needful to have them. They
did not always conform to the highway, as laid out; they often en-
croached, and thus much land is now held by individuals that really
belongs to the town as highway. Most of the roads, before the year
1800, were only cart paths to peoples' houses and fields. In most in-
stances they were called lanes, and often received some outlandish
names. Many of the people of the town were opposed to the location
of general highways, and it is said that the petition of the people of
"North Parish," in 1741, for a road to connect them with Guilford, was
pending several years before it was granted, and other roads to points
outside of the town shared a like fate.
The town has had no turnpikes, but the Shore road following, in a
general way, the old "Totoket path" of the very 6rst settlers, has gen-
erally been improved to an easy condition. In the past thirty years
nearly all the principal highways, whose courses in many places have
been modified over the original layout, have been graded and made
hard and smooth by covering them with paving material found in
abundance near Cherry hill. In the main, all the principal roads are
now well improved.
The streams of the town being narrow, it has been a small item to
maintain the bridges. One of the most important is the stone bridge
at the foot of Montowese street, which was built in 1869 and provided
with tide gates. In 1874 a part of it was swept away, but was sub-
stantially repaired, and is now an attractive structure. The pile bridge,
next below, was built in recent years.
The railway through the town was got in operation in the summer
of 1852. A station was first located at Branford village, later another
at Stony Creek, and still later, the third, at Pine Orchard. The first
two have become important points on the Shore Line railroad.
The wants of the early settlers were supplied by several mills,
erected on the streams of the town, among the first improvements of
the kind being a tide mill, near where is now the Branford Point
bridge. Later the Bartholomews and others built a mill higher up
22 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
the stream, at Mill Plain, and mills have been there continued until
the present time.
The town united with New Haven in granting liberty to set up
iron works at Saltonstall lake, at that time called the Great pond, and
later known as Furnace pond, voting aid to encourage the enterprise,
from 1655 until 1658. These were the pioneer iron works in the state.
The power has ever since operated some kind of machinery, a small
feed mill being at present kept up. On Beaver brook, above this
point, William Rosewell built a saw mill about 1672. On other small
streams machinery was set up, as the wants of the town demanded, but
the operations were on a small scale.
The Branford Lock Works rank as one of the oldest and the lead-
ing industry in the town. They are the outgrowth of small industries
established in the early part of the century. About 1809 Orrin D.
Squire became a resident of the village, and as a skillful blacksmith
carried on a shop in the rear of the "Hayes Garden." Near the same
time L. D. Hosley and Daniel Nichols had a small foundry on the
brook, above the village. They united their interests and established
a new plant, where are now the works, removing some of their old
buildings to that place. At that time the " hollow" was a part of a
wood lot, being full of trees and stumps. They engaged in a general
foundry business and made fine castings and stoves, which had a good
reputation. Subsequently the variety of products was increased and
changes of the firm occurred.
In 1852 the business passed to the " Squire & Parsons Manufactur-
ing Company," which had among its members Levi Parsons, Lyman
Squire and William S. Kirkham, and the manufacture of locks was
extensively begun. After several years the company failed, and in
1862 the property passed to Thomas Kennedy, a practical lock maker
of New York. He brought to his assistance skilled labor and im-
proved machinery, much of which he devised himself, and soon cre-
ated a vast business, which in 1865 he placed under the management
of the present corporation, which was organized with a capital of
$150,000. Thomas Kennedy was elected president, and so served
until his death, in 1880. John H. Royal was the first secretary, and
was succeeded by E. F. Jones, who now serves in that capacity, and is
also treasurer of the company. A. L. Runyan succeeded Kennedy as
president; John J. Kennedy is the general superintendent and W. f.
Powes the general agent of the works.
The plant is valued at a quarter of a million of dollars and covers
nearly five acres of land. Most of the buildings are brick, and afford
a working capacity for 500 people. In addition, many of the operations
are performed by machinery, peculiar to this establishment, making
it possible to produce 500 dozen complete locks and knobs per day,
some of them being very handsome in design and finish. About five
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 23
tons of iron, brass and nickel are consumed daily, and this industry
has contributed very much to the prosperity of the town.
The Bran ford Malleable Iron Fittings Company have extensive
works opposite the railway depot, at Page's Point. The first improve-
ment there was made after the building of the railroad, by Elizur
Rogers, who built a dock and opened a coal yard, which are still con-
tinued. On the west, and having the facilities of the railroad and
Branford river, the manufacture of iron articles was soon after begun
by the "Totoket Company," which was incorporated in October, 1854,
with a capital of §16,000. Among the principal stockholders were
William H. Perry, William S. Kirkham, F. Northrup, L. S. Parsons,
John Plant, Samuel O. Plant, Henry L. Baldwin, William Blackstone,
Gurdon Bradley, A. & E. Rogers, Eli F. Rogers, J. Henry Page, Henry
Rogers, David Beach and William Wadsworth. Operations were
begun in 1855, on malleable iron, brass and wrought iron goods. Two
years later Henry Rogers was authorized to sell the property of the
"Totoket Company," and for several years Elizur Rogers and B. H.
Hadley, as Rogers & Hadley, carried on the business. In 1864 the
present corporation took charge of the property and developed the
business to its fine proportions.
The plant is one of the largest in the Union, devoted to this line of
manufactures, which embraces fittings of every nature. About four
acres are covered with substantially constructed brick buildings, a
number of them being several stories high, and the main structure is
more than 200 feet long. One foundry is also 200 feet long and two
others are of less length. There are two large annealing rooms and
other spacious buildings, adapted for the uses of the company. Power
is furnished by ponderous engines, and every department is equipped
with labor-saving machinery, but the works give employment, aside
from these devices, to nearly 300 persons. A specialty is made of the
manufacture of goods from semi-steel, which have proved excellent
substitutes for drop forgings and gun metals, and all goods are manu-
factured on a basis of chemical analysis.
The company has since 1865 been officered by J. J. Walworth, presi-
dent; E. C. Hammer, secretary and treasurer; T. F. Hammer, general
manager at Branford; and R. E. Hammer, general superintendent.
Under the direction of the Messrs. Hammer the business has become
very prosperous and is continually increasing.
The manufacture of carriages was for many years an important
industry at Branford, F. A. Holcomb & Sons being large builders, in
the eastern part of the village, before their removal to New Haven.
Another company had its works on Page's Point, where they were de-
stroyed by fire and not rebuilt, when the business was wound up. At
the old Dutch House wharf, in shops which are now idle, Alexander
Van Wie at one time made carriage parts on an extensive scale. These
24 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
buildings were occupied in 1874-9 by James E. Russell and others in
the manufacture of large and small safes, patented by Russell.
Another abandoned interest is ship building, which, about eighty
years ago, gave occupation to scores of people, and yards were main-
tained at various points on the Branford river, as high up as Mill
Plain. At the latter place a vessel called the " Laura Hoadley " was
built. The yard at Hubbard's bridge was occupied by various build-
ers, and was used as late as 1875, when Captain Russell Pond built a
small craft at that place. Here was built a vessel called the " Lottery,"
" which was castaway at Little Egg Harbor, and all her crew lost with
her."
At Page's Point a number of vessels were built, among them being
the " Friendship." the " Ariel," and the " Mary Ann." The last
was named for the daughter of Rose well Sheldon, who presented the
colors and a looking glass when she was launched. This vessel was
also ill-fated, and was lost on Oyster Pond Point. At Goodsell's Point
Harvey Frisbie built small vessels, and had the conveniences for "grav-
ing" vessels.
In this period of vessel building coastwise commerce was quite
active, but has been very limited since the era of railroads. Quite a
trade was carried on with the upper New England states in shipping
thither dried fruit and other farm products, and bringing back fish
and ship timber. Many of the young men led a seafaring life, and
the young women and boys found occupation on the farm, picking
juniper berries and wax berries, or sewed buckskin gloves or bound
shoes for parties outside of town. The spinning of twine for ship-
ment to the fishing coasts was much followed at one time.
The town also had some trade with foreign ports, and near the close
of the last century Branford was made a port of entry. The harbor
master lived at Dutch House wharf, and the building used for the cus-
toms service stood there many years after the port was abandoned.
Some time after this Elnathan Linsley built a wharf at Branford Point,
and that became the principal landing point. The water there at the
highest is about 15 feet deep, and steamboats land there in summer.
The place later became more important as a summer resort. Among
the mariners of the town were members of the Blackstone, Harrison
and Palmer families, who were also ship owners. Captain John Black-
stone settled here after 1700, coming from Rhode Island. He pros-
pered in his affairs and became a large landowner, at the place called
" Blackstoneville," where some of the property is still held by de-
scendants. Captain James Blackstone, of this family, became very
aged, and had a long and varied experience as a seaman. Captain
Furrington Harrison was in the West Indies trade, carrying cattle to
those islands. He died in 1808. Captain Ammi Harrison was also a
well-known mariner. Captain Edward Palmer was the owner of a
good schooner, called the " Betsey." Only small vessels now ascend
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 25
this river, the traffic by this means being very limited. But few sea-
men now reside in the town.
For more than a century of years many of the inhabitants found
much subsistence in the sea food afforded by the Branford coast, and
for some years oysters were an article of commerce. This extraor-
dinary demand upon the natural beds exhausted them, and regulations
for their protection were early found necessary. In 1789 the town
voted to regulate the catching of oysters; and it was provided that
from April 1st to November 1st of each year no bivalves should be
taken, under a penalty of $7 for each offense. From November 1st
to the following April permits might be obtained to take two bushels
in the course of 4S hours, one permit only being issued to a family.
For many years the natural beds afforded delicious oysters, and the
Branford river and other inlets were much frequented by fishermen-
" In Branford Harbor no oysters are raised to sell, and the outside
oyster grounds in town jurisdiction are, as a rule, too shoal for safe
cultivation."* In recent years the interest in this business has in-
creased, and under a system of cultivation the oyster fisheries of Bran-
ford have become important industries. There are about 1,000 acres
under the jurisdiction of the town, and more than 1,300 acres con-
trolled by the state. In 1890 the town had 13 oyster planters, among
them being Lewis Shepard, E. B. Beach, N. H. Bishop, N. C. Frink,
Henry Hall, Oliver Knowles, C. C. Smith, G. Smith & Sons, and the
Stony Creek Oyster Company. The latter corporation was organized
after the late civil war, and in 1868 reported a capital of $28,000, and
a board of directors composed of Nathan C. Frink, H. Lynde Harri-
son, William H. Holt, T. N. Parmalee, William Blackstone and F. A.
Holcomb. Henry Rogers was the president. In 1890 the capital was
reported at $42,000; real estate valued at $9,500; and had personal
property to the amount of $7,500. W. J. Clark was the president of
the company, and F. E. Smith, secretary.
Nearly the entire oyster business has been centered at Stony Creek,
where it gives employment to a number of men. Five vessels are
employed in the business. The oysters grown at Stony Creek are of
superior quality, and are in demand beyond the supply. Even while
yet confined to the natural beds they were much sought, and frequently
parties from the interior would visit this place, encamping for several
days, until a supply of oysters had been obtained.
On Indian Neck salt was made in limited quantities in the early
part of the present century; and along Saltonstall lake an effort was
made to manufacture peat fuel by a company organized for that pur-
pose in 1871. The project was, however, abandoned before any satis-
factory results were obtained.
Near the same time the Pine Orchard Granite Company was organ-
ized, with a capital of $50,000, to develop the granite deposits in that
♦Henry H. Stedman, 1890.
26 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
section, but that project was also abandoned. The granite quarries at
Stony Creek have been more successfully operated, there being sev-
eral which are carried on extensively. The quarry near the railway
station was opened by B. N. Green, and the one farther east by John
Beattie. From the quarry at ,; Red Hill," on the north side of the
railway, a stone is taken which closely resembles the red Scotch
granite, and is susceptible of a very fine polish.
These interests are more fully noted in the account of Stony Creek.
Branford Village, long called Branford Center, is about eight miles
east of New Haven, on Branford river, several miles from the sound.
It has a very pleasant location, the principal part being on a consider-
able elevation, which also affords good natural drainage and sites for
attractive homes. Until 25 years ago the village was less important
that at present, much of its growth having been made in this latter
period, in consequence of prosperous manufactories and the desirabil-
ity of Branford as a summer resort. These circumstances have also
made Branford one of the most important stations on the Shore Line
railroad, both the freight and passenger traffic for this point being
heavy. When the road was completed, in 1852. the station was located
at the foot of Montowese street, where was also the village wharf. A
few years later Elizur Rogers began his improvements at Page's
Point, opening a new street to that place from Main street, in the old
village, and the depot was soon after located west of the Page Point
wharf. In 1887 a very spacious and handsome station for passenger
use was erected and has since been occupied. It is of brick and is one
of the finest structures of the kind in the county.
The upper or older part of the village is built around the green —
an irregular tract of land, nearly three-fourths of a mile in length, and
coming to an apex at the west end. The east end is about 30 rods
wide. For a long time it was much neglected, but has been made at-
tractive by planting it with elms and maples. Upon it stand three
church edifices (Congregational, Episcopal and Baptist), the old acad-
emy, the town hall and the soldiers' monument. On the north side is
the principal business street of the village, which is also the main high-
way from New Haven east. Formerly that thoroughfare was chiefly
on the south side of the "Green," to Montowese street, down to Ho-
bart's bridge, thence east to Stony creek. On these streets were built
the first good homes of the early settlers, and some of the old build-
ings still remain. The first house south of the cemetery, on the east
side of Montowese street, was the Russell place, where were kept for
several years the books which formed the nucleus of Yale library.
Opposite was the Welford place. Lower down the street lived David
Staples, father of Captain Enoch Staples, who is credited with com-
manding a privateersman in the revolution, and it is said that he lost
his life while attempting to board one of the enemy's vessels. The
building on the other side of the street is the Bradley place and is one
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 27
of the oldest in the town. Nearer the river were the Hobart and the
Captain Ammi Harrison places, both being well-known in their day.
The railroad destroyed the former place.
On North Main street lived another cluster of Harrisons; .William
having his residence on the hill, Jonathan on the lot where is now the
school house, and Captain Farrington Harrison where now lives Henry
G. Harrison. This house remains much as it was built, in 1757.
Others of the old-time residences have been modernized and in Bran-
ford, more than in some of the other shore towns, is seen the handi-
work of the architects of the present time.
Ezekiel Hayes, great-grandfather of the ex-president, built a house
on the site of the present Totoket Hotel, in 1757. He was a toolmaker,
having a shop on the brook in the rear of his garden. He there also
made cow bells for the early settlers, in addition to his other work.
In the course of time this house was taken and kept by Giles Barker
as a tavern. He had previously kept a public house on the Nichols
lot, which was burned down. Lorenzo Blackstone improved the Hayes
house, enlarging it to a three-story building, and for some time the
Totoket Hotel was favorably known. It is still kept as a public place,
but with varying success.
A mile or more east of the village the " Half Way House " (mid-
way between New Haven and Guilford) was kept many years by Da-
vid Towner; and near the Guilford line Joseph Frisbie had another
public house.
Among the traders and principal merchants of the village, after
1800, was Mason Hobart, at the end of Meadow street. In the same
locality Nathaniel Johnson was a merchant, large land-owner and ship-
builder. He erected a large house on the site of the present Fowler
place, which burned down about 80 years ago.
On the hill on North Main street, Rosewell and Jephtha B. Shel-
don and Timothy Johnson merchandised in the early part of this cen-
tury, and the buildings they occupied still remain; Levi Bradley was
on the other side of Alain street and Phineas Bushnell was in the west-
ern part of the village. Business now began to concentrate at the
" hollow," where the proprietors of the foundry had stores. In 1825
Judah Frisbie built a store on what is known as the Rogers lot, where
next traded Henry Taintor. Both removed, and in 1833 Eli F. Rog-
ers there began merchandising and continued at that stand until 1868,
when he built a business house on the north side of the street. In
1869 he was succeeded by Kimberley & Scranton, who removed to New
Haven. This is now the J. Hutchinson & Co. stand. The village has
a dozen other stores.
The Branford post office was long kept by Jonathan Barker at his
house, where is now the residence of H. D. Nichols. In 1827 O. D.
Squire had the office in a small building near the lock works, and the
income that year was $51.34, less than half the income of the Guilford
â– 28 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
office the same year. .Sometime about 1845 the office was removed to
the brick store kept by the company, and Lyman Squire was the post-
master. In 1849 Eli F. Rogers became the postmaster and continued
until 1862. He was succeeded by Philo Hall, who served until 1886,
when Henry D. Linsley was appointed and was the incumbent until
January 13th, 1891, when B. B. Bunnell became the postmaster.
Branford is now a postal money order office. Six mails are received
daily, and from this office is supplied the mail of the Short Beach post
office, which was established in 1887, with Mrs. Ruth Clapp as the post-
mistress. At Branford a new office has been occupied since April,
1891.
A few newspapers have been published in the village, the first
being the Branford Weekly Gleaner. It was published in 1878, and later
by Philo Hall and others, when it was merged with the Shore Line
Times, of New Haven. Another paper, also of short duration, was
published by Willis Hopson. Neither publication received the sup-
port it merited.
It is probable that Doctor Richard Gould was the first permanent
physician in the town, coming after 1700 and residing here until his
death, March 9th, 1746, 84 years of age. Contemporary in the latter
years of his practice was his son, Doctor William Gould, who was also
born at Oakhampton, England, in 1692, and who died in 1757. The lat-
ter had also a son William, who was a physician in the town, and who
was born here in 1727 and died in 1805. In 1787 he was given permission
to "set up for the inoculation of small pox for the space of one year,
under the direction and terms of the government." He was the father
of Doctor William Gould, born in 1752, who died in 1809, and of Doc-
tor Orchard Gould, the last of this famous family of physicians to prac-
tice here. Doctor Orchard Gould was born in 1764 and died in 1819.
His home was on the hill where is now the Elizur Rogers place. All
these physicians are interred in the old cemeterv.
About the time of the first Doctor Gould, Doctor Isaac Bartholo-
mew was in practice some years, but removed to Middletown. He was
a son of William Bartholomew, the miller. Later a Doctor Herpin
was a practitioner, coming from Milford. He probably remained only
a short time. In the latter part of the last century Doctor Joel North-
rup was in Branford, and lived where is now the Congregational par-
sonage.
Doctor Willoughby L. Lay came from Lynn, Mass., and after
many years of practice died in 1858. He lived in the house now occu-
pied by his son, James W. Lay. His practice passed to Doctor H. V.
C. Holcomb, who also died in the town some time about 1871. Doctor
Newton B. Hall was a student of the latter, and after several years of
practice in Branford also deceased.
As early as 1S72 Doctor C. W. Gay lord* located in the village and
biographical sketch in this chapter.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 29
continues in active practice. Near the same time Doctor E. W. Brain-
erd came from East Haven, and after some years was killed at Monto-
wese street railway crossing, while on his way to Stony Creek. At
the latter place the physicians have been Doctors G. P. Reynolds and
E. C. M. Hall, none residing there in 1890. Doctor Isaac P. Leete, an
eclectic practitioner, has been in Branford a score of years, and in the
regular school of practice have been the past eight years, Doctor
Walter H. Zink; and the past six years, Doctor A. J. Tenney.
In 1890 the attorney resident at Branford was Edmund Zacher, who
also maintained an office in New Haven. In the same way Lynde
Harrison lived in the village a number of years. Jay E. Russell was
an attorney at Branford after the late war, but after several years re-
moved to California. Edward H. Rogers removed to New York and
William A. Wright to New Haven. The town has had but few resi-
dent attorneys.
Since the completion of the railroad, in 1852, the sea shore of Bran-
ford has become very popular, and has been greatly improved for sum-
mer visitors and residence purposes. Along nearly its entire length
may be found attractive cottages, hotels or pleasure grounds, and the
several localities, designated by the names of Short Beach, Double
Beach, Lanfair's Cove, Branford Point, Pawson Park, Indian Neck,
Blackstone's Cove, Pine Orchard, Point Pleasant and Stony Creek, all
have advocates of their merits and claims upon those who love sea-side
attractions. In area Indian Neck is the most extensive of the above
localities. As its name indicates, it was a natural home for the In-
dians, and after the settlement of the whites they were encouraged to
live there upon small tracts of land, some of which they cultivated,
but subsisted mainly in fishing. Thus some of them lived on the
"Neck" until a century after the coming of the whites. In the mean-
time, the town had purchased these lands of the Indians and set them
aside for the support of the church. A tract for that purpose was
purchased as early as 1685, and the acquisition continued until the
First Society practically controlled the lands in that section. In 1770
the society began leasing these lands for a term of seven years, the
rental being about $200 per year, and continued that practice until
1S60. After that period the rental was increased, and the lands netted
the society about $400 per year. In 1867 Samuel Beach secured a lease
of Indian Neck for 99 years, with the privilege of sub-leasing, but
under restrictions which strictly protect its morals; and from this
time on the improvements for summer homes began. By the terms
of the new lease, the First church society realizes about $900 per year.
The extreme southwestern part of the " Neck " is known as " Jaf-
frey's Point," from Indians who had their lands at that place, and who,
in 1702, sold some of their possessions to William Maltbie. East of
this was the 34-acre farm of the Indian Pawson, some of which was
high and attractive ground. This and other lands in that locality have
30 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
been improved as "Pawson Park"— a very pleasant and well regulated
day resort and picnic grounds.
On the main part of Indian Neck. Elias Pond made the first sub-
stantial improvement, building an English house. On the shore the
Taunton Seine Company had leased lands for fishing purposes, and
from this circumstance were derived the names Taunton Beach and
Taunton island, off shore from that place. In the same locality are
Clam island and Shumake island, the latter being first owned by An-
drew Beach, the first of that name in this locality. On another part of
the coast William Frisbie had a small fishery. Near the same place
Captain Lynde Frisbie built a small house for the entertainment of
visitors, which, with enlargements, became known as the Indian Neck
House — a hotel kept by Eli Goodrich and others. After 1866 William
Bryan built another summer hotel, called the Montowese House. Fine
cottages were built soon after by Thomas R. Trowbridge, Thomas
Gallaudet and many others, until the entire shore has been lined with
artistic and pleasant cottages, owned by people in all parts of the
state, who were attracted not only by the scenic surroundings, but by
the security against objectionable elements afforded by the provisions
of the lease exacted by the society.
At Short Beach the first house for summer entertainment was built
about 1852, by Harrison Bristol, and at that time the place was a com-
parative forest. Here are now cottages for several hundred people,
many of them being permanent residents, and the place has a village-
like appearance, having a small chapel, a school building, a post office
and a few business places.
At Branford Point Elnathan Linsley made the first improvements,
which converted that locality into a public place. Others succeeded
him and the present Branford Point House is owned by George T.
Parker. It has enjoyed a large patronage. The groves at the point
are pleasant, and there being a landing point for steamboats, the place
is much visited some seasons.
On the coast eastward is Pine Orchard, so-called on account of the
fine grove of pines near the sandy beach. The locality has afforded
good fishing and clamming, and has been visited for that purpose with
much regularity the past hundred years. In later years many of those
who went there were entertained by Jerre Sheldon, who lived on the
road from Damascus to Stony Creek. Truman Sheldon, a son, suc-
ceeded his father as a dispenser of public hospitality, and established
a popular place, the fame of " Mother Sheldon " being widely known
as a caterer. In still more recent years their sons, Edward and George
Sheldon, established a very popular place, and Pine Orchard has be-
come a favorably known resort. New roads have been constructed to
this locality, and the railroad has established a station. A number of
fine cottages have been, built in recent years.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 31
Stony Creek village* is in the southeastern part of the town and
off shore are the Thimble islands, having attractive peach surround-
ings. Long before the settlement of the whites, these localities were
famous resorts of the Indians, who here found fish and game in great
abundance. In no other places on the Long Island shores were there
found such immense beds of oyster and clam shells as were seen here
on the coming of the first settlers, showing that it must have taken
ages to accumulate them. The village derived its name from the
creek in this locality, and the stream was so called on account of the
nature of the bed over which its waters course. The Thimble islands
form a pleasant and interesting group, being scattered in a somewhat
promiscuous manner, forming harbors and places of shelter from
storms for pleasure boats and vessels in the coastwise trade. Tradi-
tion has associated the name of Captain Kidd, the freebooter and
pirate, with one of these harbors. It is said that toward the close of
the seventeenth century he made it a place of rendezvous and some-
times came ashore for supplies. On one occasion some of the citizens
went on board his ship, but not liking the looks of the craft, hastily
ended their visit. Not long after this a division of the common lands
of the town was made, when the name of " Kidd's Harbour " was ap-
plied to one of these localities. It is very probable, however, that
Kidd's real rendezvous was at Gardner's island, 35 miles to the east-
ward, and that he may have barely visited this place.
The islands are about 25 in number and have been favorite pleas-
ure resorts ever since there is any account of them, but in later years
they have become more widely known. In 1847 Captain William Brien
purchased one of them, called Pot Rock island, and built on it a house
for the entertainment of visiting parties and others who might claim
its hospitality. This house has since been enlarged and steamboats
make two trips a day between this point and New Haven when the
season is fairly under way. About 50 cottages have been built on the
different islands, some of them being very handsome. Most of them
are occupied from May till October, but in July and August this sec-
tion is most populous. In those months a steamboat also plies regu-
larly between these islands and the mainland at Stony Creek.
In 1874 the general assembly constituted Stony Creek the second
voting district of the town of Branford. It was made to include about
a mile and a half from east to west and, including the islands, about
the same distance from north to south.
The Stony Creek section was not early settled, on account of the
rough and broken nature of the land, which made it less inviting than
other parts of the town.
" This region was comprised in the fifth division of Branford. This
was made before 1700. The first allowance to any settler of land there
was to Francis Norton, March 13th, 1671. The record says: ' His lott
* From data by Henry Rogers.
32 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
is to be at Stony Creek, by the sea.' In 1673 William Leete, Esq. v
was granted lands somewhat east of Stony Creek. His grant was for
a lease of twenty-one years, and he was required to build a house
upon it to hold it. October 20th, 1680, Richard Butler obtained a
farm there. He was allowed six acres more in 1686, if he would build
a house within three years. Abraham and William Hoadley soon be-
came owners there. Thus we have the name ' Hoadley's Neck ' for
the portion next to Guilford, by the sea. The Frisbies soon after ap-
pear as owners there. William Barker, Edward Barker, Jonathan
Barker, Daniel Palmer, Abraham Howd, John Rogers and others soon
settled there. These persons mostly purchased of the heirs of the
proprietors, who lived elsewhere, but who shared in every new division
of land. Thus Dorcas Rose well, of New Haven, sold to Edward Bar-
ker ' land in the fifth division at Stony Creek, in 1716.' The same
family names are to be found on some of the same property to-
day. Names of places in the old deeds and boundaries are: ' Brook
Creek.' 'Little Island,' 'Brushy Corner,' 'Wolf-Pitt Island,' 'Hog-
Pound Hill,' ' Sea Hill,' and 'Chestnut Hill.' We first meet the name
' Thimble Islands ' in a deed of ' Shell Island ' to Isaac Cook, Novem-
ber 3d, 1739. The first roads were laid out in 1710.
" Stony Creek became a school district in 1788. On December 8th
of that year the town of Branford granted to Pennock Howd, John
Rogers, Jr., Timothy Barker, Abraham Rogers, Stewart Gaylord, Isaac
Rogers, Barnabus Palmer, Demetrius Cook, Jr., Ebenezer Frisbie, Jr.,
Elias Pond, Daniel Jones, Uzziel Cook and Edward Frisbie their re-
quest for a separate school district."*
Most of these were young men, who, besides tilling their small
farms, found occupation part of the time in the fishing business in the
rivers of Maine, or coasting to New York with wood, which was at
one time quite a considerable interest. A few also sailed from these
shores to the West Indies. After the decline of the shipping busi-
ness some of the older families removed.
We have spoken of the abundance of sea food and how popular
Stony Creek was among the Aborigines, who statedly visited these
places. It became no less popular among the whites, and very
early there was an influx of fishermen and others from abroad. Many
of the latter were farmers who came here for a few days' diversion.
Some of these visitors were not very careful as to their manner of
living here, falling into customs so outlandish that the natives desig-
nated this class as " Portugese." This lack of restraint also attracted
a better class of people, whose recreations, though free, were less
harmful. One of the latter class was Reverend Samuel Eells, a socia-
ble man of much native wit. It is related of him that on one occasion
when he and a geuial company of friends had visited this place " he
suggested to them (many being his parishioners), that if any were
*Baldwin.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 33
officers they should leave their oaths under a juniper bush, above the
large flat rock in the road; church members should leave their cove-
nants there, and upon their return they might take them up and carry
them back home unsullied by any improper conduct at the beach."
But this, most likely, is also a mere tradition of a time removed and
obscured by the lapse of a hundred years.
The building of the Shore Line railroad, in 1850, very materially
changed the life of Stony Creek, opening a new future for it. This
enterprise was, to a considerable extent, the work of the president,
secretary and treasurer of the old New Haven & New London Rail-
road Company, Frederick R. Griffing and Ralph D. Smyth, of Guilford.
At that time Stony Creek was very sparsely settled, but a station was
located, with the expectation that such a step would develop this coun-
try. Looking at the improvements which have been made, no one can
doubt the wisdom of their judgment in this matter. New life was
transmitted to Stony Creek, and improvement after improvement has
been made until the present fair condition has been attained.
In 1853 the Stony Creek post office was established, with Timothy
Barker as the postmaster, and it has steadily increased in importance.
Soon after new roads were laid out, upon which a number of fine cot-
tages have been constructed. Hotels and other business houses were
opened to accommodate the summer visitors, and the permanent pop-
ulation has from year to year been augmented, as other interests
were established, until a number of these business places have also
become permanent.
Theodore Howd has for many years been the principal merchant
in the place, the post office being kept in his store.
" All these businesses brought in more people, various other busi-
nesses and much money. Enlargement and improvement have been
seen in consequence on every hand.
" But, after all, the greatest charm of Stony Creek is its fitness
for a popular ' watering place.' This is becoming more and more
its chief feature.
" Twenty years ago Mr. Giles Baldwin and Mr. Timothy Barker
used to have a few summer boarders at their pleasant homes. David
Barber also had a few at his house, which was then farthest toward
the sea. Mr. James Douglass came and carried on a hotel with good
success for some years. Mr. Henry Rogers, Mr. John Russell, Mr. H.
Bishop and some others received their friends as visitors or boarders>
more or less, during the season.
" None of these could really have foreseen the extent to which the
business of entertaining visitors has since grown at Stony Creek. The
multitudes who now find their way by cars or carriage or boat to Stony
Creek and its Thimble Islands, can hardly understand from what small
beginnings these places have grown in fifteen years. Besides the well
known hotels of â– Brainard's,' ' Frink's,' ' Barnes,' and the ' Flying
3
34 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Point House ' of ' Northrop's,' there are hundreds of residences and
cottages covering the main land and the numerous islands. The
progress is greater each year. This resort gains in favor with good
people every season, and thousands now visit Stony Creek during the
summer months to enjoy the beauty and rest afforded."
In 1865 a fine new school house was built, and about ten years later
it was found necessary to increase the capacity of the school room by
building another house.
In the old red school house Deacon Giles Baldwin started a mission
Sunday school, in 1863, and two years later regular preaching services
were established by Reverend Elijah C. Baldwin, of the First Society
of Branford. Before that time occasional services had been held at
the same place by Reverend Timothy P. Gillett and others. The in-
creased interest encouraged the building of a small church upon a lot
donated by Henry Rogers. It was dedicated July 8th, 1866, but in
1877 it became necessary to enlarge it. Abraham Baldwin aided much
in securing an organ, and Timothy Barker, of San Francisco, gave a
Sunday school library and bell. These provisions permitted the or-
ganization of the Stony Creek Congregational church, January 16th,
1877, with 34 members. Reverend C. W. Hill was the first pastor,
serving a year, when he was followed by Reverend F. M. Taylor. In
May, 1888, Reverend Andrew Mclntyre became the pastor, and the
church reported 75 members. Mission services are also held at Stony
Creek by the Swedish Lutherans and the Roman Catholics.
Soon after the building of the railroad an examination of the gran-
ite ledges in this locality convinced quarrymen that they were very
valuable. The stone is of fine grain and has several shades of color.
In 1858 B. G. Green purchased a tract of land, upon which he opened
a quarry soon after, in which he employed 50 men, and operated suc-
cessfully about 15 years.
In 1870 John Beattie.of Newport, R. I., purchased a tract at Hoad-
ley's Neck, on the east side of the creek, where he opened extensive
quarries. But in 1882 this part of the town was set off to Guilford.
Mr. Beattie has operated very extensively, at times employing several
hundred men. In the same locality, but on the opposite side of the
creek, the Branford Granite Company secured a tract in 1889, which
has been already developed to a considerable extent. The company
is composed of Brooklyn capitalists, and from 100 to 150 men are em-
ployed, in a well equipped quarry. Here are found bluish-grey and
reddish colored granites, which are equal to any produced in this
county.
A quarry of red granite was opened a mile north of the railroad,
by some New Yorkers, some time in 1875. It was not well equipped,
but the quality of the granite was fine, and from it has been obtained
the material for making some of the granite columns in the legislative
chambers at Albany and Hartford. After some years Samuel Bab-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 35
cock, of Middletown, secured the property and organized the Stony
Creek Red Granite Company to operate it. This quarry has also been
well equipped and large shipments have been made. About 150 men
are employed, and the company is engaged in filling large contracts.
In 1SS8 the well known contractors, Norcross Brothers, of Worces-
ter, Mass., purchased tracts of land adjoining the above, and opened
an extensive quarry, which is supplied with all modern equipments,
including a special railway connection with the Shore Line railroad.
The capital stock of the company is $250,000. The quality of the prod-
ucts is very superior.
Still another quarry is operated by the Totoket Granite Company,
in which 60 men are employed. The products are of a pinkish color
and of a fine quality. In other localities are found fine deposits of
granite, which, no doubt, will also be developed in the future, and
which will add much to the prosperity of Stony Creek.
Widow's Son Lodge, No. 66, F. & A. M., is the oldest secret organi-
zation in the town. It was instituted September 27th, 1825, with the
following charter members: John Polter, Joel Polter, John Foote, Mer-
ritt Foote,Calvin Frisbie, Asa Norton, Orrin D. Squire, Lyman Frisbie,
Edmund Palmer, Samuel Russell, James W. Frisbie, Judah Frisbie,
Lorrin D. Hosley, Ruel Chidsey, William Tyler, Ebenezer Linsley,
William Bryan, Doctor Willoughby L. Lay.
Of this body of men, William Bryan was the only survivor in 1890.
Many additions to the membership were early made, but through
some informality the charter of the Lodge was revoked in 1842. The
following year it was restored, but after six years, in 1849, it was again
revoked, and for five years the meetings of the Lodge were inter-
mitted. Since the second restoration of the charter, in 1854, the Lodge
has been prosperous to an unusual degree, considering the limited
jurisdiction. In 1890 there were 126 members in good standing and
the following principal officers: Trustees, E. Zacher, C. W. Covert,
John Eades; W. M., W. N. Boynton; treasurer, C. F. Bradley; secre-
tary, L. A. Merriam. Among the past masters have been: Orrin D.
Squire, Merritt Foote, William Nash, H. V. C. Holcomb, H. F. Nichols.
William D. Hendricks, N. B. Hall, Frank E. Welford, Herbert Jones,
Harvey Beach, Henry H. Stedman, Joseph F. Nettleton, Samuel A.
Welford, Josiah Jones, George H. Newell, E. E. Isbell, W. Boynton,
John Eades, Francis Clark and C. A. Hoadley.
Woodland Lodge, No. 39, K. of P., was instituted February 26th,
1882, with twenty charter members and the following principal offi-
cers: B. F. Hosley, past chancellor; W. H. Zink, M. D., chancellor com-
mander: J. Curtis, vice commander. The Lodge has been very pros-
perous, having in the fall of 1890 98 members. Its meetings are held
in a finely furnished hall in the Armory Building, which is sub-let by
this Lodge to six other societies. A number of sick and funeral bene-
fits have been paid. At this time the principal officers were: C. H.
36 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Van Wie, past chancellor; George W. Hull, chancellor commander; H.
B. Terhune, vice commander; W. H. Felker, keeper of records and
seals.
Endowment Rank, Section 891, K. of P., was started November
17th, 1888, with 15 members and $23,000 of insurance. In the fall of
1890 the members numbered 30, and the insurance amounted to
$57,000.
B. F. Hosley Division, No. 13, Uniform Rank, K. of P., was organ-
ized June 9th, 1890, with 34 members in full uniform, and E. C. John-
son, captain; George W. Hull, recorder. The membership of the divi-
sion has been increased to 41, and all these branches of the Knights
of Pythias are prosperous.
The town has had a large number of purely beneficiary orders, a
number of which have succeeded in establishing themselves so well
that the) 7 continue prosperous. Among the oldest of these are the
First Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, which was incor-
porated January 28th, 1878: and the Court Totoket, No. 7196, Ancient
Order of Foresters of America, which was instituted November 7th,
1884, with 11 members. In the fall of 1890 the total belonging was
118, and George W. Hull was the chief ranger. It is duly incorpor-
ated by an act of the general assembly. The court has property to-
the amount of $1,000, besides having paid many sick and other bene-
fits, on a basis of $9 dues per year.
In the Second Degree of this order was instituted February 26th,
1886, Sanctuary Totoket, No. 7196, Ancient Order of Shepherds, with
James Galligan, John Winthrop, George W. Hull, J. W. Cliffe and 11
other charter members. This has also increased its membership,
there being in the fall of 1890 23 members.
El Dorado Council, No. 10, K. of C, was instituted in August, 1884,
with 12 charter members. Its membership increased rapidly, there
being in the fall of 1890 119 persons belonging, all of them in good
standing. The principal officers were: Grand knight, John J. Buckley;
deputy grand knight, John B. Reilley; recording secretary, Luke
Quinn; financial secretary, Thomas Scanlan; treasurer, Martin Burke.
The Lodge has a sick benefit fund of $1,500, paying $5 per week to
members who are awarded that kind of support.
Totoket Lodge, No. 3019, Knights of Honor, was organized No-
vember 20th, 1883, with the following charter members: C. F. Brad-
ley, W. E. Beach, F. T. Bradley, John Eades, W. E. Fowler, Walter
Foote, D. W. Goddard, C. W. Gaylord, W. W. Hawkes, B. F. Hosley,
C. A. Hoadley, H. F. Jourdan, E. C. Johnson, G. H. Newell, L. F.Nich-
ols, F. E. Peckham, A. B. Palmer, E. H. Parshley, W. T. Robinson, I.
N.Spencer, Jr., J. C. Sharney, N. R. Terhune, W. A. Wright, S. A.
Welford and Edmund Zacher. The membership in 1890 was 60, and
H. C. Woodstock was the dictator. Those who had passed that office
were: W. A. Wright, George Newell, E. Zacher, B. F. Hosley, H. N.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 37
Way, Henry Jourdan and Frank Jerald. Doctors C. W. Gaylord and
A. J. Tenney were the medical examiners.
Among the distinctively labor organizations were an assembly of
Knights of Labor and a society in the Iron Moulders' Union, both of
which had a good membership.
In the domain of temperance societies has been St. Mary's Total
Abstinence and Beneficial Society, which for nearly a score of years
has been doing a good work among the young Catholic people of this
town. Of more recent organization, and doing a similar work among
the Protestant youth, were the Knights of the Golden Cross and Bran-
ford Division, No. 16, Sons of Temperance, each having an increasing
membership.
Mason Rogers Post. No. 7, G. A. R.. is a flourishing organization.
It was instituted July 28th, 1881, with the following charter members:
Isaac Van Benthusan, J. Edward Turner, Joseph Curtis, Edward D.
Sheldon, Henry Z. Nichols, Elizur C. Johnson, James W. Lay, Obed
Tyler, Michael Kinner, Joseph F. Nettleton, Samuel S. Cook, David
Sliney, A. Judson Smith, Nicholas R. Terhune, Jerome Baldwin, Cal-
vin L. Ely, Alvin M. Thayer, John Hutchinson, George Bliss, William
Donahue, Walter E. Fowler, Franklin Bradley, Burton T. Buel, Arami
B. Parmer and Ammi B. Barker. In 1890 the membership was but
slightly greater, the number belonging being thirty. The post com-
manders have been Calvin L. Ely, Henry Z. Nichols, Nicholas R. Ter-
hune, Ammi B. Barker, Henry W. Hubbard, Walter E. Fowler, J. Ed-
win Towner, Elizur C. Johnson and J. Atwood Linsley.
This Post was instrumental in the building of the beautiful Soldiers'
Monument, standing on Branford Green, between the middle and west
end church edifices. It raised for that object $1,000, the town of Bran-
ford gave $1,000, and the patriotic non-resident citizens of the town
added $1,000 more— the total cost of the pile being about $3,000. The
monument was built by the Smith Granite Company of Westerly, R.
I., and is wholly of the celebrated granite of that section. It consists
of a large base, two semi-bases (the upper one being inscribed: G. A.
R., 1885) and a large die, on the cap-stone of which is the shaft, which
is surmounted by the figure of a soldier, more than seven feet high,
whose arms encircle a flag. The entire height is about thirty feet.
The dedicatory inscription is on the north face of the die:
Branford
To Her Brave Sons
Who Fought in the War
of the Rebellion
1861—1865.
One Country. One Flag.
On the shaft are cut shields and engraven the principal battlefields
in which Branford soldiers were engaged:
38 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Antietam.
Fredericksburg.
S H.
Gettysburg.
Vicksburg.
Port Hudson.
New Berne.
Chancellorsville.
The town's monument committee was composed of John Hutchin-
son, Samuel Beach, James W. Lay, T. F. Hammer, John P. Callahan,
Joseph Curtis and Edward F. Jones, who also arranged for the dedi-
cation, October 28th, 1885. The occasion was one of great interest and
brought together a large concourse of people. Among those in attend-
ance was the venerable Captain James Blackstoue, 93 years of age; the
governor of the state and other distinguished citizens. Reverend J.
O. Peck was the orator of the occasion. The Second Platoon of Bat-
tery A (Branford artillery company) fired a military salute, and thus
was given to the public one of the most artistic and substantial monu-
ments in the county.
At Stony Creek a Lodge of the Sons of St. George has been estab-
lished in recent years, which has been well maintained.
The following account of early educational matters is from the pen
of Reverend Elijah C. Baldwin:
" The duty of properly educating children soon began to receive
attention. May 21st, 1655, ' It is agreed by the consent of the whole
to give toward the maintaining of a college at New Haven, to give
our part of a rate of sixty pounds by the year, year after year.'
" The same year laws were made for the whole colony by Gov-
ernor Theophilus Eaton, and the next year these were the require-
ments :
" ' Whereas too many parents and masters, either through an over
tender respect to their own occasions and businesse, or not duly con-
sidering the good of their children and apprentices, have too much
neglected duty m their education while they are young and capable of
learning: // is ordered, That the deputies for the particular court in
each plantation within this jurisdiction, for the time being, or where
there is no such deputies the constable or other officer or officers in
public trust, shall, from time to time, have a vigilant eye over their
brethren and neighbors, within the limit of the said plantation, that
all parents and masters doe duly endeavor, either by their own ability
and labour or by improving such schoolmaster or other helpers and
means as the plantation afford, or the family may conveniently pro-
vide, that all their children and apprentices, as they grow capable,
may, through God's blessing, attain at least so much as to be able duly
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 39
to read the Scriptures and other good and profitable printed books in
the English language, being their native language, and in some com-
petent manner to understand the main grounds and principles of chris-
tian religion necessary to salvation.'
"Penalties were also provided for such as neglected their children's
education.
" Reverend Abraham Pierson, pastor of the church here, beside
faithfully attending to his own people, was careful not to neglect the
heathen families in the same territory. He regularly preached to the
Indians. He prepared and had printed a catechism for them. He
was versed in the Indian language, so that he could do this. His ac-
quaintance with the Indian tongue was useful in other ways; he was
frequently called to act as interpreter, especially before the court. J.
Hammond Trumbull has given specimens of this catechism. A cita-
tion will show the kind of meat set before these Indians ' in their buck-
skin and war paint' : Question — ' How do you prove that there is but
one God ?' Answer — ' Because the reason why singular things of the
same kind are multiplied is not to be found in the nature of God, for
the reason why such like things are multiplied is from the fruitfulness
of their causes; but God hath no cause of his being, but is of himself ;
therefore he is one. 2. Because singular things of the same kind,
when they are multiplied, are differenced among themselves by their
singular properties; but there can not be found another God different
from this by any such like properties.'
" Mr. Pierson had a regular salary for his labors among the In-
dians; it was paid by a missionary society in England — ' The Commis-
sioners for the United Colonies of New England.' This salary some-
times amounted to $150 a year. To induce the Indians to attend upon
his ministrations rewards were offered.
" In the effort to secure the settlement and growth of the town
after the Newark removal, education was neglected. For many years
the schools were few and far between. Several times, in the period,
the people were fined for not having a school as the law required.
There were a few teachers employed, as John Arnold, in 1678; Eleazur
Stent, in 1680-1, and in several later years. Thomas Sargeant, in 1684;
S. Mansfield, in 1691; Richard Wilford, in 1700; Eleazur Stent again in
1701, at forty dollars a month. Again in 1702. Then John Collins, in
1708. These schools were only for a few months in the winter. The
town paid part of the wages, the parents paid the rest. The effect of
so little interest in schools was this. Nearly a whole generation grew
up in ignorance. This is seen in the frequency with which both men
and women ' make their mark ' in signing deeds and other docu-
ments."
In the early part of the present century, according to President
Dwight, the interest in education was very feeble. There were at that
time in the South Society five districts, each provided with a school
40 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
house. The one at Stony Creek was provided in 1789 upon the peti-
tion of eleven inhabitants of that locality. In the meantime, what is
now North Branford was far more active in promoting the cause of
education, and a number of their youth were securing the benefits of
academic instruction.
At Branford village a select school was taught by Reverend Tim-
othy P. Gillett, some time after the war of 1812, which there, also,-
awakened a desire for schools of a higher grade, and which led to the
establishment of an academy, in 1820. Benjamin R. Fowler, Calvin
Frisbie, Philemon Tyler, John Beach and others, aided by Mr. Gillett,
were active in this movement, and secured the town's consent to erect
the buildings on the south side of the green. A two-story frame house,
with a belfry, was put up, which is still standing in that locality. For
a number of years Branford Academy had a good reputation, and the
stockholders were rewarded by having a school in their midst, which
well served its purpose. The academy was continued with varying
success until 1S66, Miss Jane Hoadley being the last teacher. Others
who are remembered as having taught there were: Reverend Gillett,
Deacon Samuel Frisbie and Lynde Harrison. The latter was instru-
mental in securing a school library of several hundred volumes. The
upper story of the academy building has long been used as a Masonic
hall.
The usefulness of the academy was at an end after the consolida-
tion of the public schools of the town. Gradually these were improved,
and with the increase of wealth there was a demand for better build-
ings. About the time of the late war this question was much agitated,
but the unusual expense at that time prevented action. Finally the
village school building was so poor that the public moneys were re-
fused. After much effort, $3,500 was voted for a new school house,
and soon after a public graded school was established in it. In 1881
it was enlarged, and it has since been fitted up in a very thorough
manner, the property being an object of pride in the community. It
is valued at about $8,000. In recent years very neat school buildings
have been erected in some of the other districts of the town.
As early as 1875 the high school at the village, under the princi-
palship of E. Zacher, was well sustained. In 1881 William E. Hatch
became the principal in the new house. G. L. Faxon succeeded him
in 1883, and under his direction the schools at the village were more
properly graded. A course of three years was established for the
high school, and ten grades outside of that. C. R. Stiles became the
principal in 1885, and since 1887 H. S. Gulliver has been at the head
of the schools at the village. Six rooms are occupied. The children
here enumerated number 400, and in the entire town 773. The entire
school expenses per year are about $8,000. For a number of years
Doctors Walter H. Zink and C. W. Gaylord have been the acting
school visitors, and have aided much in promoting the interest in
popular education.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 41
Most of the early settlers of Branford were plain people, but were
-men of strict Puritan principles, " men of stern integrity and zealous
for religious liberty, so far as its principles were then understood.
The doctrines of their creed were Calvinistic, or those which were
embodied shortly after in the Cambridge and Westminster Confes-
sions of Faith. In church polity they were Congregationalists, hold-
ing the doctrine of parity, or of one order in the ministry, and that
all ministers are of equal official rank; and that each parochial church
is an ecclesiastical body complete in itself, with power to elect its own
pastors and deacons, to decide on the proper qualifications of those
who offer themselves for admission to membership with them, and to
receive, to discipline and exclude, as the majority shall judge to be
agreeable to the laws of Christ, the only head, law-giver and king of
the church. They further held to the propriety of asking advice from
other churches, reserving the right to follow or reject such advice, ac-
cording to their judgment of expediency. In common with other
colonists of that age, they acted on the scheme of carrying the gospel
and its ordinances, education and its advantages, with them, and hav-
ing the church, the minister and the school coeval with their set-
tlement."*
Hence, before their organization into a church estate they built a
log meeting house, and as early as October, 1644, had Mr. John Sher-
man, one of the first settlers, preaching for them on a salary. He was
a man of superior talents, and ministered to them until 1646, when the
settlement of the Reverend Abraham Pierson left him free to go to
Watertown, where he was settled in the ministry, and where he died
at the age of seventy-two years.
The Reverend Abraham Pierson has been properly regarded as the
first pastor of the church. Coming from South Hampton, L. I., with a
part of his congregation from that place, and being a man of char-
acter and influence, he was here also the controlling spirit in all the
affairs of the town until his removal to Newark, as has been stated.
" Mr. Pierson preached in the log meeting house which stood in
the old grave yard, near the willow tree now there. One of the orig-
inal palisades which stood around that house is now to be seen on Mr.
William Russell's place. The Sabbath services consisted of two ser-
mons, each an hour long, timed by the hour glass standing on the pul-
pit. There was also a prayer, and two or three hymns were sung,
but there was no scripture reading nor any musical instruments.
•' Men and women sat on opposite sides of the house, the boys sat
by themselves, attended by a ' tithing man,' to keep order. Children
were baptized in the meeting house, generally on the next Sabbath
after their birth; sometimes on the day of their birth. Marriages
were as often performed by some magistrate as by a minister. There
were no public religious services at funerals; minister and people all
*Reverend Timothy P. Gillett.
42 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
attended and assisted silently and solemnly until the remains were
buried. The meeting house roof, and so, in fact, the roofs of all the
houses, were thatched— sedgegrass was the material used.
" A little before the Newark removal Robert Rose died— April
4th, 1665. He gave by will, six pounds, thirteen shillings and four
pence to the church. This was probably the first legacy ever left to
the Congreg-ational church of Branford. The example thus early fur-
nished has been followed by several others since."*
When Mr. Pierson removed to Newark, in the summer of 1666, he
employed John Bowers, of Guilford, to preach for those remaining
until the end of the year, when the town engaged him, as is shown
by the following record:
January 6th, 1667. "This certifieth that the inhabitants of the
town of Branford did engaee themselves unto Mr. Bowers for to allow
and pay unto him the sum of thirty pounds and the cutting and cart-
ingof wood, and to be rent free in the house and lands that are bought
for a minister, and he is to be free from all town rates for himself and
his estate, for and in consideration that the said Mr. Bowers is for to
carry on the work of the ministry one whole year here in Branford,
and his time is for to begin the 9th Dec, 1666, and the town doth
promise to bear his charges of diet till he come with his family."
They renewed this arrangement from year to year until 1671, when
he was invited to settle with them and carry on the work of the
ministry. He accepted the invitation, but the call not being unani-
mous, there was some trouble, which caused him to leave and settle
over the Derby church, in 1672.
" They new have ten years of candidating. March 12th, 1677, they
call a Mr. ,Stowe, but he does not accept. October 24th, 1677, they wish
a Mr. Wise to remain with them through the winter. He was a very
large man and famous as a wrestler. They have a Reverend Daniel
Russell for a few months. August 1st, 1678, they call Reverend John
Harriman. A month later they call Reverend Samuel Mather, offer-
ing him sixty pounds salary and the minister's house and lands. He
stays a while; they build him a barn, paying for the work in land.
" In 1679 they consider the question of building a new meeting
house. They conclude to enlarge the old one to twice its size. Mr.
Mather serves them, off and on, till 1681. With the hope of keeping
him they agree to petition the general court for liberty ' to embody
in a church estate.' Men, not Christians, and those willing to support
a religion that left them free to their chosen habits, had so far directed
the policy of Branford since Pierson had left. Hence their difficulty
in obtaining a minister. December 6th, 1681, they conclude to seek
God's help; they invite the Reverend Mr. Eliot, of Guilford, to come
and carry on ' a day of humiliation ' and prayer with them. April
1st, 1682, they call Reverend Jonah Fordham, but he refuses. Febru-
*Reverend Elijah C. Baldwin.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 43
ary 13th, 1683, they call a Mr. Oakes. Being doubtful of his accept-
ance they concluded to let the minister's house and lands, as they
record it, ' at an outcry by a piece of candle.' By this is meant a short
piece of candle was lighted, at the time of the sale, and the auctioneer
cried up the property until the candle burned out. He that bid high-
est during that time obtained whatever was offered. Samuel Pond,
for four pounds and six shillings, on this occasion, obtained the use of
the property. He was to vacate it when they had a minister to need
it; but that was not till three years later. Mr. Oakes proposing to go-
to ' the Bay,' that is to Massachusetts, the town ' agreed to sit still and
not be in motion to look out for other help ' until they hear from him.
He never returns. November 7th, 1683, they call a Mr. Younglove.
January 7th, 1684, they call Reverend John Wilson. April 29th, 1684,
they call Mr. Mather again. Then they try Reverend John Cotton,
Jr., and a Mr. Woodruff and a Mr. Emerson. February 1st, 1686, Rev-
erend Samuel Russell is introduced to Branford people. The now
sufficiently humbled people are drawn to him. He is called, and
comes.
" Having the Reverend Samuel Russell now living with them, they
move to reorganize the church. June 7th, 1 687, ' Whereas motion hath
been made to Reverend Samuel Russell respecting his settlement or
taking office in a church way, and having also applyed and solicited to
the general court for liberty to embody, and being granted, as also it
being moved to Mr. Russell, by those that are members of churches,'
the town agreed to reserve their motion and desire, leaving it to a
committee to prosecute the work as they and Mr. Russell shall agree.
" March 7th, 1688, their affairs had so progressed they were ready
for an organized church. They then entered into and signed the fol-
lowing covenant:
" ' It having pleased God of his grace to call up to the visible pro-
fession of religion, and being now by his providence called to unite
together for the carrying on the ordinances of God amongst us, we do,
therefore, with self-abasement and sorrow of our great unworthiness,
yet in obedience to the gospel of our Lord Jesus, we do this day, be-
fore God and his people, give up ourselves and ours first unto God and
then one to another, to work together to attendance to all those duties
and enjoyment of all those privileges of the covenant of grace that
are to be attended and enjoyed in a particular visible church, mak-
ing the 1 Scriptures to be our rule. We do declare it to be our pur-
pose, as God shall assist, both in our principles and practice in all
substantials to work in a consonance with the churches of Christ
with whom we hold communion. Samuel Russell, John Frisby,
Ebenezer Stent, Peter Tyler, Samuel Pond, Daniel Swaine, Aaron
Blatchly, Samuel Betts, Thomas Sergeant, Elizabeth Barker, Hamot
Maltby, Saroi Blatchley, Miriam Pond, Dorcas Taintor, Elizabeth
Stent, Hamot Wheadon, Elizabeth Pamer, Hamot Frisbie, Deliver-
44 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ance Rose, Mary Betts, Ruth Frisby, Saroi Page, Saroi Gutsil, Jane
Tyler.'
" In April others signed, as: John Rose, Francis Tyler, Abigail
Russell, Elizabeth Rose, Wid. Linsley, Wid. Nash, Esther Wheadon.
" In November others still, as: Jonathan Frisby, Jono. Maltby,
Thomas Topping."*
This may be regarded as the beginning of the church organiza-
tion proper. The town and the society thereafter became distinct,
the latter managing, in a measure, its own affairs. They had begun,
in 108."), the acquisition of the lands on Indian Neck for the support
of the minister, and during this pastorate much of the land now
owned was acquired.
Reverend Samuel Russell was a son of Reverend John Russell, of
Hadley, and was a graduate of Cambridge College. His salary was
;£60 and the society gave him as a settlement the town house and lands
connected with it, and he lived at that place as early as 1686.
"The years that follow show increase and prosperity in church and
•town. They soon add to the minister's salary and occasionally grant
him more land, until he becomes about the largest land-holder in the
place.
" January 2d, 1692, they give Mr. Russell a deed of the parsonage
property which was built in 1690.
" April 5th, 1697, they grant to Mr. Russell and others the privilege
of setting up a saw mill. The next year they grant Mr. Russell the
use of the grass in the burying yard for ten years, if he will fence it
in. Then it is probable the old cedar palisades were used by Mr. Rus-
sell in making this fence, the first fence around the graveyard."
The Russell parsonage remained substantially as built until about
1825, when it was modernized. It became noted as being the building
in which the meeting was held which led to the formation of Yale Col-
lege, and for several years the library of the new institution was kept
there.
In 1687 " the town agreed to white-lime the meeting house, but
September 28th, 1699, it was unanimously agreed to build a new meet-
ing house, ' the form of it to be about forty foot square, an upright
wall from the ground to the plate.' Appointed Mr. William Maltbie,
Mr. Edward Barker and Mr. William Hoadley, Eleazur Stent, Lt. Sam-
uel Pond, Ensign Thomas Harrison, Jr., and Searg. John Rose, or any
â– five of them, to be a committee to manage the work from time to
time.
" November 30th, 1699. ' Whereas it hath been agreed upon by the
town to build a new meeting house, and there being different notions
respecting the form— some being for a square house and others for a
long brick house with lean-to— it is agreed by the town that a lott shall
be drawn to decide the matter, and it is agreed that Benj. Harrington
* Reverend E. C. Baldwin.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 4fr
shall draw the lott.' The lot being drawn fell for a square meeting
house. The form of the tower and turret was left to the committee.
The inhabitants agreed to work out their proportions of expense as
near as they can in such work as the committee judge them capable.
The committee were to deduct from wages of those who come late or
are negligent. They sell the new part of the old house to help pay
joiners for work on the new house. They sell the old part of the old
house to Richard Wilford for teaching school. This new house stood
on the common, about in front of the town hall.
" June 27th, 1701. ' It is agreed that the congregation in Branford
do meet together to worship in the old meeting house next Lord's Day,
and that the next following we meet in the new house.'
" They gave several men liberty to put pews for themselves in the
church there, to be for their families ever after, for a reasonable rent.
This house stood till 1744. In 1738 they voted to build anew meeting
house, just west of the old one. When it was done, they pulled down
the old one."
Mr. Russell's ministry closed with his life, June 25th, 1731, when
he was 71 years of age. His pastorate was continued a little more than
43 years, but in the last six years he was not able, on account of bodily
ailments, to preach much, and by mutual arrangement the pulpit was
supplied by Reverend Samuel Sherman and others.
Until 1725 the entire original town attended services at the meet-
ing house on Branford green, but this year the inhabitants were divided
into two parishes, those living on the North Farms becoming the
North Branford Society, and the original society became the old or
South Society. The church was also divided, and the town assisted in
building the two meeting houses required.
Mr. Russell has been styled " the second father of Branford." He
was a talented man, and by the ministers of his time was looked upon
as a leader. Including those who joined when the church was or-
ganized, he added 300 to the membership of the church. He was a
warm friend of Yale College, serving as a trustee from 1701 to 1731.
He contributed to its support liberally himself, and induced his people
to do the same. Four of his sons were graduated from that institu-
tion, viz.: John, Samuel, Daniel and Ebenezer. His other sons were
Jonathan and Ithiel, and their descendants became worthy and hon-
orable citizens,
Efforts were made after the death of Mr. Russell to secure Rev-
erends Samuel Sherman and Ebenezer Silliman as pastors. Both had
preached on calls, but failed to settle. The church was now without
a pastor until 1733, when Reverend Philemon Robbins was secured.
In the summer of 1732 he came with a classmate of Harvard, from
which college they had just graduated, to attend the commencement
of Yale.
" While Mr. Robbins was at New Haven a person came from Bran-
46 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNT V.
ford to procure some one to preach as a candidate; and he, being
recommended as a suitable person, consented to go in that capacity.
The people are pleased with him, and, September 18th, 1732, ask him
to come four weeks on probation. October 9th, 1732, they give him a
■call to settle, offering £400 as a settlement, to be paid in two years;
also £130 per annum for the first four years, and after that £140 per
year and his firewood."
He accepted the call, and began his ministry with the following:
"October 9th, 1732. I had an invitation to settle in the work of the
ministry in the South Society in Branford, Connecticut, Dec. 27th,
1732. I accepted the call. Feb. 7th, 1733, I was ordained to the pas-
toral office in Branford South Society. Philemon Robbins."
"Mr. Robbins found here a church of 125 members — 43 males and
82 females. There were 218 additions during his ministry of 47 years.
In the first years the gains were numerous. In the years of opposition
and trouble the gains were few. In the first year the church chose
Captain John Russell as deacon.
" December 24th, 1736, Mr. Robbins married Hannah Foot, the
daughter of Isaac and Rebecca Foot, of Branford. Then the people
helped their minister to build a house. That house is still standing,
perhaps the second oldest house in Branford. It is owned and occu-
pied by Mr. Michael Harding-. The original house has been added to
and much improved by the present owner. Mr. Robbins spent his
married life in it, and his nine children were born there."
In the ministry of Mr. Robbins occurred some of the most import-
ant and stirring events in the history of the town. About 1740 here,
as well as elsewhere in the New England states, much attention was
paid to the subject of religion, the minds of the people being espec-
ially awakened by the preaching of evangelists, who went from town
to town on this mission. Mr. Robbins believed in these special efforts
to quicken the spiritual life of the church, and insisted on " spiritual
growth as evidence of conversion. He adopted measures to promote
such life. In addition to the usual meetings he encouraged prayer
and conference meetings. He at times had extra preaching services.
He was ready to encourage revival efforts everywhere. It seems
strange to Christians now that any one should object. Yet many did,
even ministers. So much objection was made, in a number of towns,
divisions occurred, and new churches were formed. The more actively
inclined felt compelled to the step by the opposition they met in the
old church. Of course Mr. Robbins and those like him were jealously
regarded by such as differed from them. Perhaps he, rather more
than others, because he had come in from Massachusetts, where they
did not so highly esteem the Saybrook Platform.
" At this time Reverend Jonathan Merick was the minister at North
Branford, and Reverend Warham Williams was minister at Northfordr
Reverend Thomas Ruggles, Jr., was at Guilford, and Reverend Samuel
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 47
Whittlesey at Wallingford, Jacob Hemingway at East Haven, and
Reverend Isaac Stiles at North Haven, and young Samuel Russell at
North Guilford. "*
At this time the "great revival preacher, George Whitfield, had been
making his remarkable tour through our country. He met great op-
position in New England. Many Connecticut ministers were espec-
ially hostile. Mr. Robbins favored him, and so, with a few others, bore
the stigma of ' new lights.' They were looked upon with great dis-
favor by the other pastors.
' One special cause of complaint grew up from the desire of many
people in various towns to have the ' new lights ' ministers preach for
them. Some of the earnest preachers were willing to do so. Rever-
end Mr. Humphreys, of Derby, consented to preach to a Baptist
church; he was expelled for it. Reverend Timothy Allen, of West
Haven, was also expelled. He had been heard to say, ' That the read-
ing of the Scriptures, without the Spirit's aid, will no more convert a
sinner than reading an old almanack.' He was a devoted minister,
but he was too spiritual for his church. Mr. Lee, of Salisbury; Leaven-
worth, of Waterbury, and Todd, of Northbury, were also expelled for
similar faults. Mr. Robbins' turn came next."
The opportunity for prosecuting him presented itself very soon in
the violation of the rules of the Consociation, adopted at Guilford, the
latter part of 1741. One of its acts was to vote " That for a minister
to enter into another minister's parish, and preach or administer the
Seals of the Covenant, without the consent of or in opposition to the
settled minister of the parish is disorderly. Notwithstanding, if a
considerable number of people in the parish are desirous to hear an-
other minister preach, provided the same be orthodox and sound in
the Faith, and not notoriously faulty in censuring other persons, or
guilty of any other scandal. We think it ordinarily advisable for the
minister of the parish to gratify them by giving his consent upon their
suitable application to him for it, unless neighboring ministers should
advise against it." " Not satisfied with this, these ministers went to
the general assembly and got a law passed which was an outrage to
every principle of justice. One provision was this: ' 3. If any minis-
ter, or ministers, contrary to the true intent and meaning of this act,
shall presume to preach in any parish, not under his immediate care
and charge, the minister of the parish where he shall so offend, or the
civil authority, or any of the committee of said parish, shall give in-
formation thereof, in meeting, under their hands to the clerk of the
society or parish where such offending minister doth belong, which
clerk shall receive such information and lodge and keep the same on
file in his office, and no assistant or justice of the peace in this colony,
shall sign any warrant for collecting any minister's rate, without first
receiving a certificate from the clerk of the society or parish where
♦Reverend Elijah Baldwin.
48 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
such rate is to be collected, that no such information as is above men-
tioned, hath been received by him or lodged in his office.' This was
an example of what cruel wrongs may be done by professed good
men in the name of religion. In their eager desire to carry certain
ends they deemed for the good of Zion, they violated every principle
of justice, and forgot every Christian virtue. Of course their efforts
only increased the evils they hoped to destroy. The records of
them are another monument of the folly of doing evil that good may
come.
"Some time in the early part of December, 1741, Mr. Robbins had
an invitation to preach at the Baptist church in Wallingford. These
Baptists lived within the bounds of the First Society or parish in Wal-
lingford. They were formerly in the Congregational church, but had
gone off. and professing Baptist principles had set up by themselves.
Some years before Mr. Robbins came to Connecticut they had em-
ployed a Separate minister. Mr. John Merriman, who was ordained
their pastor. By the advice of the governor, no rates had been col-
lected from them by the First Society for several years.
"Mr. Robbins returned no positive answer to the first overture.
Soon after he received the following letter :
" ' To Mr. Robbins, Branford.
" Sir: — After suitable respects to yourself, this note is to inform
you that Mr. Bellamy has been with us at Wallingford, and preached
in our Baptist's society to very good satisfaction and success on sev-
eral persons both of our people, and also those of your denomination
with whom we desire to join heartily in the internals of religion,
though we can't in form; so that it seems to be the desire of both de-
nominations here, that yourself would oblige us with a sermon or two
as soon as you can after the next week; and please to send me when.
This is also my desire for the good of souls and the glory of God.
"Sir, yours in good affection,
John Merriman, Elder.
" Wallingford, Dec. 23d, 1741.'
"Mr. Robbins accepted the invitation and agreed to go on January
6th, 1742. The day before he was to preach he was handed a note
from two of the members of the Congregational church of Walling-
ford, requesting him not to preach for the Baptists. But he could see
no reason why he should break his engagement. There were many
reasons why he should keep it. He accordingly went and preached
twice to full congregations.
" Mr. Robbins had preached in Wallingford on January 6th, 1742.
The Consociation met at New Haven February 9th, 1742. Mr. The-
ophilus Yale, a member of the Consociation, messenger from Walling-
ford church, exhibited a complaint against Mr. Robbins in the form of
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 49
an indictment. Mr. Robbins could never get a copy for himself, but
it ran like this :
" ' The subscriber, do certify, in way of complaint, to this reverend
Consociation, that on the 6th day of January last past, the Rev. Mr.
Philemon Robbins did enter into the First Society of Wallingford, and
preached in a disorderly manner, in contempt of the authority of this
Consociation, without the consent of the Rev. Mr. Whittlesey, pastor
of said society; contrary to the act of the Guilford Council; contrary
to an act of this Consociation, and contrary to the desire of his neigh-
boring ministers, and a great number of church members in Walling-
ford.
" Theophilus Yale.' "
" Mr. Robbins, who was present, observed that there was nothing
said in the complaint of its being contrary to the law of God. ' We
know not how to answer for preaching any more than for praying,
unless they would tell him wherein was the crime of it. They told
him it was expressed in the complaint as contrary to the act of the
Guilford Council, etc' Mr. Robbins said he did not know what were
the acts of the Guilford Council when he preached at Wallingford.
Whatever they were they had not even then been read to or accepted
by the Consociation. Where there was no law there could be no trans-
gression. As it being contrary to the desire of two neighboring min-
isters and a great many church members, there was no rule in the
word of God or Saybrook Platform that obliged one to attend such
desire in preaching. They referred him to the vote of the Consocia-
tion to any act of that Consociation instructing their delegates to the
Guilford Council. He answered that such a vote did not bind the
Consociation to any act of that council ; that he was not guilty even
under that vote, because he had not been into another man's parish
to preach. The Baptists were a church gathered by themselves. They
had a minister ordained over them. He had preached for them at
their minister's desire. The collector of Mr. Whittlesey's society had
been advised by the governor not to require taxes of these Baptists.
He had. moreover, sent to them proclamation for fasts and thanksgiv-
ings as to other churches. But they claimed that the Baptists were
not by the letter of the law a legal society, so decided his preaching
to be disorderly. They required him to make confession, and gave
him over night to think of it. But he declined to do what they re-
quired. They then passed judgment on him as follows: 'At a meet-
ing of the Convocation of New Haven County, convened by and ac-
cording to adjournment at New Haven, February 9th, 1741-2. A
complaint being given in by Theophilus Yale, Esq., a member of the
First church in Wallingford, against the Rev. Philemon Robbins, pas-
tor of the First church in Branford, within this county, that the said
Mr. Philemon Robbins has preached in said First society in Walling-
4
50 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ford, in a disorderly and offensive manner, as by said complaint is set
forth and laid before this Consociation:
•• ' Resolved, That the Rev. Mr. Robbins so preaching was disor-
derly.
"'' Resolved, That the Rev. Mr. Philemon Robbins should not sit as
a member of this council for his disorderly preaching.'
"This judgment being read, Mr. Robbins took leave, went home
and made this memorandum: 'The crime is preaching to the Bap-
tists, and the punishment is being secluded from the Consociation.'
" But, unexpectedly, the punishment is turned into a crime, and
becomes the burden of more serious complaints. At the next meet-
ing of the association he found a complaint against him from some of
his own people. Everything seemed to be managed in the greatest
secrecy, for he only learned of it at the last moment. The association
sent him this notice:
" ' The Association of the County of New Haven convened at New
Cheshire May 31st, 1743. To the Rev. Mr. Philemon Robbins, Pastor
of the First Church in Branford. Reverend Sir, and dear Brother; By
a paper, given into this association by one of the members of your
church, and signed by six members of the same, we are given to un-
derstand that there is an uneasiness among a number of your people,
with your conduct and management in sundry particulars; and, hoping
that it may be of good service, we have desired a number of our body,
viz.: the Rev. Messrs. Jacob Hemingway, Samuel Russell, Samuel Hall,
Isaac Stiles and Jonathan Merrick, to repair to Branford on the second
Tuesday of June next, to make inquiry into the difficulties among your
people, and shall rejoice if they may be instrumental of good and
peace among you; and hoping you will take this in good part, and treat
the motion candidly, we heartily wish you well.
' Test, Thomas Ruggles, Scribe.
' By order of Association.'
" When he found who of his people had petitioned for this, he was
much surprised. One was an old non compos mentis man, unable to at-
tend church; others were persons who had never given him any reason
to believe they were uneasy. Three were persons who had annoyed
him before, and who had evidently moved against him at the instiga-
tion and advice of some of the ministers. He could never get a copy
of the things complained of; but, as near as he could learn by diligent
inquiry, they were these:
" 1st. That Mr. Robbins has set up lectures, without a vote of the
church for it.
"2d. That he denies the platform.
"3d. That he has baptized a child at New Haven.
" 4th. That he is a promoter of divisions and separations.
"5th. That he admits members of the separate church at New
Haven to the Communion."
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 51
The number and nature of these charges showed very plainly that
these members had been instigated by some of the ministers of the
Consociation. Mr. Robbins soon quieted the apprehensions of his
parishioners and even made everything satisfactory to the five mem-
bers who had complained of him. But his opponents were not satis-
fied. New complaints were lodged, at the instance of the opposing
ministers, and nothing Mr. Robbins could say or do would satisfy
them. After a protracted trial of two years and much agitation, the Con-
sociation formally deposed him from the ministry.
" His church and people now took the case in their own hands. In-
stead of using the liberty which the law of the legislature gave them,
they paid their minister's salary with more cheerfulness and punctu-
ality than before. Instead of admitting the charges of error filed
against him before Consociation, the church, nem. con., met and rebut-
ted them thus: ' We are of opinion that what is contained in the arti-
cles against the pastor of this church, respecting doctrines and princi-
ples, is very wrongfully and injuriously charged, and disagreeable,'
contrary to 'the known course and tenor of his preaching. We think
Mr. Robbins preaches the doctrines of grace more clearly than in some
of the first years of his ministry among us; and yet we have too much
reason to fear that our uneasy brethren and neighbours, especially
some of the principal of them, are dissatisfied on account of those doc-
trines: which doctrines, for our part, we think are clearly revealed in
the word of God, and adhered to by the reformed churches, as appears
by their confessions of faith and catechisms; and we trust God has and
will implant them in our hearts, and enable us to maintain them as
long as we live.' No very pleasant decision for such men as Whittle-
sey and Stiles, who had ordained and given the right hand of fellow-
ship to young Robbins, and whose new light was now so brilliant as
to give pain to their visual organs. He was ecclesiastically silenced
and deposed. His flock would not submit. They voluntarily with-
drew from the compact into which they had entered with the neigh-
boring churches about 38 years before. They retained their minister
and loved him the more for his trials and his increased soundness in
the faith. His opponents appealed to the assembly for aid to quell or
to awe this rebellious spirit. . The assembly, in May, 1748, cited the
society to appear before them and answer to the complaint. The soci-
ety appointed John Russell, Esq., and Samuel Barker to be their agents
or attorneys, to appear before the assembly and show reasons why the
prayer of said petition should not be granted. The assembly, after
hearing the parties, appointed a council of seven ministers from dif-
ferent parts of the colony, requesting them to repair to Branford and
hear the parties, and endeavor to make peace in the society. On hear-
ing the decision of the assembly, the society here voted to request and
entreat the ministers so appointed by the assembly, together with
messengers from their respective churches, to meet at Branford, on
52 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Wednesday, the 29th of June, 1748. Bat the council never met.
Though requested again in July, that they would be pleased to come
and attend to the business of their appointment, they came not. Being
let alone, the difficulties died out. The days of Mr. Robbins were
thenceforth spent in peace with his people— in the love and confidence
of his church and of the whole community. Without any formal act
of restoration, he was called gradually into the councils and associa-
tions of his brethren.""
Being received into the Consociation and the association, Mr. Rob-
bins remained an honored and trusted member until his death, August
13th, 1781. He preached the preceding day with unusual animation,
closing his sermon with the words " Glory! glory!" After dinner, on
the day of his death, he sat down in his arm chair and was soon ap-
parently asleep, but, as it proved, went quietly out of this life into the
next. Two of his sons became eminent as ministers. His later de-
scendants, also, have honored the name.
Not long after the settlement of Mr. Robbins it was determined to
build a new meeting house. " March 15th, 1738, the Society moves to
build a new meeting house. October 11th, 1738, they decide to build
it west of the old one, and 64 feet long by 44 feet wide, with 24 foot
posts, but nearly two years pass away before they really get to work
at the new house." It was occupied in 1744, and was in the style of
that day, a two-story house without a spire. In 1803 a steeple was built
to the house and a clock placed in the spire. With other repairs this
meeting house was used until 1843, when it was removed and a part
of the present brick edifice was occupied, in the pastorate of the Rev-
erend T. P. Gillett. This house was practically rebuilt in 1868-9, in
Mr. Baldwin's pastorate. A new front, with tower and steeple, was-
built, and the rear was lengthened 15 feet, making the building very
commodious. It was also thoroughly refitted and a new organ pro-
vided. The entire outlay was about $26,000. It has since been re-
paired. In 1889 a very fine parsonage, costing $7,000, was erected on
the old Frisbie lot, in the rear of the church edifice. All the property
is in good condition.
After the death of Mr. Robbins the pulpit was vacant several years,
when Reverend Jason Atwater was secured as the next pastor. He
was a native of Hamden, Conn., and a graduate of Yale College. He
was ordained by the Consociation, March 10th, 1784. He died of con-
sumption, June 10th, 1794. His pastorate was ten years and three
months. The society gave him £300 settlement, and £100 salary, with
the privilege of cutting firewood from the society's lands. During his
ministry 96 were added to the church; the baptisms were 187, of which
number 19 were adults; marriages, 96.
The next pastor, Reverend Lynde Huntington, was a native of
Norwich, and a graduate of Yale. He was ordained the 28th of Oc-
* Reverend T. P. Gillett.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 53
tober, 1795, and died of consumption, September 20th, 1804. The so-
ciety gave him as a settlement £300, and £95 salary, " with the priv-
ilege of cutting wood sufficient for his own fires from the Society's
lands, so long as he shall continue to preach in said Society." The
additions to the church under his ministry were 50; the baptisms
121, adults 2; marriages, 50.
Reverend Timothy P. Gillett, son of Reverend Alexander Gillett,
of Torrington, was settled as the next pastor. He was ordained June
15th, 1S0S. The society gave him a " a salary of $500, to be paid an-
nually, until from continued ill health and infirmity he is no longer
able to perform the duties of the gospel ministry among them,"
with the privilege of cutting his firewood from the society's land. His
salary was not increased, remaining as fixed until he ceased to be the
active pastor. But so frugal was he, without being mean or miserly,
that, without engaging in any speculations, his estate in 1881 amounted
to $80,000, some of which was given to benevolent objects. During
his pastorate many additions were made to the membership of the
church, the last years of his life being the most fruitful. He continued
as pastor emeritus until the fall of 1866. His health having failed,
Reverend Jacob G. Miller was appointed colleague pastor in 1859, and
so served until 1864. The following year Reverend Elijah C. Baldwin
was settled in a like relation, and after Mr. Gillett's death became the
pastor. He continued until 1878. He was an able and conscientious
minister and the last to remain a term of years. Since his departure
the acting pastors have been: 1878-80, Reverend C. W. Hill; 1880-84,
Cyrus P.Osborne; 1885-88, Henry Pearson Bake; 1888,Thomas Bickford.
On the 1st of January, 1889, the latter was settled as the pastor.
He was ordained to the ministry in 1875. His labors here the past
year have been successful, about fifty members being added, making
the present US90) membership 340, contributed by 190 families in the
parish. In addition to its labors at home the church has encouraged
mission services at Short Beach, and aided in establishing the church
at Stony Creek.
The church maintains a well equipped Sabbath school of several
hundred members, having Horace B. Meigs as superintendent, and
has also a number of aid societies connected with it.
The following have been the deacons and the years of their elec-
tion: Lawrence Ward, uncertain: John Rose, uncertain; George Bald-
win, uncertain; Samuel Harrington, after 1689; Samuel Rose, after 1689;
John Russell, 1733; Edward Barker, 1757; Nathaniel Foot, 1763; El-
nathan Beach, 1763; Stephen Smith, 1771; Daniel Maltbie, 1771; Samuel
Rogers, 1777; Zaccheus Baldwin, 1795; Samuel Tyler, 1800; Samuel
Frisbie, 1809; Eli Fowler, 1816; Harvey Page, 1851; Jeremiah Russell,
1852; -William Linsley, 1857; John Plant, ; -Austin M.Babcock,1869.
Of the foregoing, John Russell, who was a son of Reverend Samuel
Russell, was, in his day, one of the most distinguished civilians in town.
♦Now in office.
.-,1 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The following Congregational ministers have been raised up in the
town of Branford: Reverends Joseph Barker, John Tyler Benedict,
Thomas Wells Bray, Andrew Bartholomew, Samuel Barker, Thomas
Canfield, John Cornwall, John Foote, Levi Frisbie, Josiah Frisbie,
Dana Goodsell, George Justus Harrison, Jared Harrison, Roger Har-
rison, L. I. Hoadley, Lewis F. Morris. Solomon Palmer, Abraham Pier-
son, Ammi R. Robbins, Chandler Robbins. D.D., Samuel Russell,
Ebenezer Russell. Lemuel Tyler and Samuel Whiting.
Trinity Church (Protestant Episcopal)* had its origin in the dissent-
ing minority of the First Society, or those who were avowed opponents
of Mr. Robbins after he had become a " new light." In 1748 these
opponents of Mr. Robbins petitioned the general court for aid in car-
rying into effect the decree of the New Haven Consociation, debarring
him from ministerial duties, and to the obeyance of which he paid no
heed. The petitioners were Nathaniel Harrison, Nathaniel Johnson,
Joseph Frisbie, Noah Rogers, Jo/in Rogers, John Rogers, Jr., John Linsley,
Jonathan Hoadley, John Hoadley, Nathaniel Hoadley, Benjamin Palmer,
Demetrius Cook, Ebenezer Frisbie, Orchard Guy, Daniel Palmer, Samuel
Maltby, Nathaniel Butler, Joseph Bishop, Samuel Frisbie, Mieha Palmer,
Jr., Noah Baldwin, Abraham Palmer, Ebenezer Linsley, Uzal Cook, Nathan-
iel Frisbie, Isaae Cook, Abijah Hobart, Daniel Frisbie, Jonathan Good-
sell.
The names in italics represent the families which probably em-
braced Episcopacy, though it is by no means certain that every per-
son so indicated became a churchman. Many of the foregoing remained
Congregationalists, forgetting, in the course of a few years, their dis-
affection with the " new light " doctrines.
In September, 1748, Reverend Matthew Graves, missionary from
New London, and Doctor Samuel Johnson, from Stratford, held Epis-
copal services in the town, and thereafter they were continued with
some regularity, so that the church properly had its beginning in that
year. A few years later the society was more fully organized and un-
der its direction regular missionaries served it : Reverend Matthew
Graves in 1748; Samuel Johnson, D.D., in 1748, 1752 and 1766; Eben-
ezer Punderson, 1752-61; Solomon Palmer, 1763-6; Bela Hubbard, D.
D., 1767-84. During the revolution the feeling against the Episcopal
church was very strong and but little advance was made. The society
had, in these latter years, only a nominal existence, and in June, 1784,
steps were taken to reorganize and to found the present parish. This
act was consummated November 29th, 1784, when the following were
elected as the first parish officers: Mr. Ebenezer Linsley and Captain
Samuel Russell, church wardens; Captain John Russell, Obed Linsley,
Thomas Frisbie, John Rogers, Jr., Papillian Barker, Captain Ebenezer
Barker and Edward Barker, vestrymen; William Monro, clerk of the
church and society.
*From data by Reverend M. K. Bailey, Eli F. Rogers, Esq., and others.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
55
At the same meeting a vote was passed with the intention of pro-
curing Mr. Sayre as their minister, and he probably was in charge
while the church was building.
The next step was the formal notice of organization given to the
First Society, so as to secure exemption from paying rates. This no-
tice was signed by the following:
'Ebenezer Linsley
Jonathan Hoadley
Ralph Isaacs
Isaac Rogers
Jonathan Hoadley jur
Samuel Russell
Thomas Frisbie
Ebenezer Barker
Abraham Rogers
Ebenezer Frisbie
John Garrett
Nathaniel Palmer
Thomas Barker
Peter Grant
Samuel Whedon
John Rogers jur
Pennock Houd
Stewart Gaylord
Ebenezer Frisbie jur
Timothy Barker
Elias Pond
Richard Spink
Andrew Morris
Edmund Morris
Papillian Barker
Archelaus Barker
Daniel Frisbie jur
Barnabas Palmer
Obed Linsley
William Monro
John Russell
Allen Smith
George Cook
Oliver Landfair jur
Roswell Chidsey
George Friend
Sarah Johnson
Martha Olds
John Cory
Jacob Rogers
Thomas Rose
John Potter jur
Daniel Jones
Abel Frisbie
Jonathan Barker
Benjamin Barker
Obediah Tyler
Ebenezer Linsley 3d
John Butler
Samuel Russell jur
Moses vStork
Samuel Palmer jur
John Rogers
Ebenezer Linsley jur-
" By order of said Episcopal Church or Congregation in legal meet-
ing assembled, holden in said Branford first society on the 11th day of
December A.D. 1784.
Will.m Monro Clerk —
Ebenezer Linsley
Samuel Russell
Samuel Whedon
John Russell
Obed Linsley
Thomas Frisbie
Papillian Barker
John Rogers jur
' f Committee-
56 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
" We whose names are in the foregoing, beg leave to address the
first society, and to assure them that we wish them peace in Jesus
Christ; and they with us may enjoy every blessing this world can afford,
and eternal happiness in the World to come— By Order of the Episco-
pal Church or Congregation in the first society in Branford."
After some little delay and consideration the matter was settled
by a decision that the Episcopal society should be exempt from the
payment of all rates for the benefit of the First society, after Decem-
ber 13th, 1784, since which time Trinity parish has had a recognized
independent existence.
The next step was to build a church, but here, as in many other
places in the county, the selection of a site was attended with some
difficulties.
" It was voted, December 28th, 1784, to build a church not to ex-
ceed 50 feet by 38, and John Russell, William Monro, Captain Samuel
Russell, Obed Linsley, Abraham Rogers, Papillian Barker and Eben-
ezer Barker were appointed a committee to receive subscriptions,
transact all business of building, and to search the First society's rec-
ords to see whether liberty had formerly been granted to build a
church, and in case it had not, to make application for it. William
Monro and Captain John Russell were also appointed to see an attor-
ney about the rates, and to petition the county court for liberty to
build a church. Neither of these committees seem to have gotten
much satisfaction, for March 7th, 1785, Samuel Russell, John Russell,
Ebenezer Barker, John Rogers, Jr., Abraham Rogers, Obed Linsley
and William Monro were appointed to determine where the church
should be built. This committee examined two sites — ' the hill where
the timber now lies, likewise the ground near the school house hol-
low.' March 25th, it was voted to build on this hill, which was called
Baldwin's hill, if a title could be had. Where Baldwin's hill was can-
not be decided, but probabilities indicate a site near the residence of
Mr. Philander Hopson. This did not prove satisfactory, and the place
selected was 'the ground near the school house hollow.' The de-
cision was referred to Jonathan Ingersoll, Esq., of New Haven, and he
fixed it.
' Meanwhile the subscription paper had been started. The first
copy was drawn up December 28th, 1784, without doubt at the parish
meeting. In this list several names appear which are not among the
founders, one of them being Cambrig Primus, probably a slave or freed-
man, who subscribed six shillings. A second list, showing amounts
subscribed, paid and due, gives the sum total as .£300—10—0. The
tax list of forty-three members of the parish in 1786 aggregated
.£1,533—10—3. A part of the subscriptions were paid in labor and
goods.
' The timber was drawn in February of 1785, the work on the
frame was probably done in June and July. August 12th a contract
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 57
was given to Jacob Tyler, of Southington, to complete the church
which was then raised. It was for £50, one-third to be paid in cattle
and cash, and two-thirds in West India rum and dry goods, the rum
being valued at three shillings or fifty cents per gallon. In December
men were still working at the pillars. The first parish meeting in
the church was warned for the first Monday in May, 1786. In the
period between December and May, then, the church was occupied.
" Three names appear in the documents of the time as most promi-
nent—those of Samuel Russell. Ebenezer Linsley and Ralph Isaacs.
They did a great deal of work for the parish, and were liberal in their
contributions. The parish meetings were frequently held at the houses
of the former two. Captain Russell and Ralph Isaacs made frequent
journeys on parish business. The latter lived in the old farm house
at Cherry hill. He entertained the clergy, and his contributions in
money were larger than those of anyone else.
"At this point of the parish history we find the old church stand-
ing northwest of the present edifice, where a line of the foundation
stones still appears through the turf. It was unpretentious, being
built somewhat after the school house model. But it represented
much perseverance and toil. There was no recessed chancel, but a
semi-circular rail enclosed the altar and the chancel space. The whole
Sunday school used to gather about the rail to be catechised at the
visit of the bishop. The pulpit was very high and stood against the
wall, having a small dark robing room under it. It was afterward
moved forward, and a convenient robing room placed behind it, the
chancel was made square, reduced in size, and pews were added. The
altar at first stood directly in front of the pulpit— afterward near the
chancel rail, with a space behind it. Over the entrance was a semi-
circular gallery, the ends extending about half the length of the
church. The pillars were a conspicuous feature of the interior, and
seem to have cost considerable labor. At one time it was intended to
erect a spire, and the timber was drawn to the church. It was, how-
ever, sold, and formed the spire of the Congregational church preced-
ing the present one. It was pulled over, at the demolition of that edi-
fice, and people who saw it fall remember how it quivered in the air
like a serpent before it came down.
" For about forty years there was no way of heating the old church.
A stove for burning wood was put in about 1825, the pipe being put
through a window. Another was added a dozen years later. The
seats were free, and the men and boys sat on one side, the women and
children on the other."
With some minor repairs the church was used as built until 1840,
when the old gallery was replaced by a new one. In 1845 the rectory
property, which had been secured by a stock company after 1840, was
transferred to the parish, and near the same time a pipe organ was
placed in the church. A new church edifice being deemed necessary,
58 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
funds were raised in 1850, and Harry Barker, Isaac H. Palmer, Levi
S. Parsons, David Averill and Benjamin Rogers were appointed a
building- committee. A plan which was deemed quite advanced for
the times was selected, and the corner stone of the building was laid
in April, 1851. The church was consecrated by Bishop Brownell Jan-
uary 27th, 1852. Four years later the improved parsonage and the
church were fully paid, leaving the parish free from debt.
The parish has been the recipient of a number of generous gifts,
among them being, in 1859, the sum of $524 from Abraham Rogers;
in 1867, bonds from General Schuyler Hamilton, who was for a num-
ber of years a devoted member of the church, to the amount of $1,000;
in 1867, $404 from Captain David Barker, to provide free sittings in
the church; in 1872, $500 from the estate of Mrs. Mary Daniels; in 1880,
the Chapel of Grace, from Isaac H. Brown and his friends; in 1882, a
bequest from Eli Goodrich, amounting to about $9,500.
The parish is prosperous financially and in numbers of members,
having 140 families and 213 registered communicants. Its total yearly
contributions are about $2,000.
The senior wardens of the church have been as follows: 1784-6,
Ebenezer Linsley; 1787-1804, Samuel Russell; 1805, Isaac Hoadley;
1806-7, Samuel Russell; 1808-12, Andrew Morris; 1813-14, Ebenezer
Linsley, Jr.; 1815, Timothy Johnson; 1816-18, Ebenezer Linsley; 1819,
Timothy Johnson; 1820, Ebenezer Linsley; 1821-2, Timothy Johnson;
1823-4, Ebenezer Linsley; 1825-8, Abraham Rogers, Jr.; 1829-30, Tim-
othy Johnson; 1831-2, Abraham Rogers; 1833, Timothy Johnson; 1834,.
Abraham Rogers: 1835, Timothy Johnson; 1836, Edward Linsley;
1837-43, Timothy Johnson; 1844-8, Edward Linsley; 1849-54, Isaac
H. Palmer; 1855, Orrin Hoadley; 1856-7, Isaac H. Palmer; 1858-63,
Orrin Hoadley; 1864-88, Isaac H. Palmer; 1889—, Walter E. Fowler.
The clergymen who have served the parish have been the follow-
ing: Reverend Samuel Johnson, D.D., 1748, occasional services; Mat-
thew Graves, 1748, occasional services; Ebenezer Punderson, 1752-61,
stated services part of the time; Solomon Palmer, 1763-6, stated serv-
ices part of the time; Bela Hubbard, D.D., 1767-83, probably occasional
services; James Sayre, 1784-6, probably resident minister, church
built; John Bowden, D.D., 1785, one visit known; Jeremiah Learning,
D.D., 1787, one visit known; Edward Blakeslee, 1788-90, probably
stated services part of the time; Tillotson Bronson, D.D., 1789, one
visit known; Ambrose Hull, 1790-91, resident minister; Manoah Smith
Miles, 1795-7, resident minister; Ammi Rogers, 1801-04, stated serv-
ices part of the time; Virgil H. Barber, 1806, one visit known; Charles
Seabury, 1808, one visit known; Benjamin Benham, 1809, two visits
known, probably in charge; J.D.Jones, 1809-11, without doubt in
charge of cure; Elijah G. Plumb, 1811-18, resident minister; Ashbel
Baldwin, 1816, one visit recorded; Origen P. Holcomb, 1820-3, resi-
dent minister; Joseph Perry, 1821, also in 1819; John M. Garfield,
HISTORY OF NEW KAVEN COUNTY. 59'
1S23-8, stated services; James Keeler, 1828-9, resident minister; Wil-
liam T. Potter, 1830, stated services; Edward J. Ives, 1831-2, stated
services; David Baldwin, 1834-8, stated services; Levi H.Carson, 1838-
40, entire services; Pascal P. Kidder, 1840-3, resident rector; Frederick
Miller, 1844-9, resident minister: William H. Rees, 1850, resident rec-
tor; Henry Olmstead, Jr., 1851-62, resident rector; Clayton Eddy, 1862-
4, resident rector; Frederick D. Lewin, 1864, resident rector; David
Bishop, 1866-9, resident rector; George C. Griswold, 1870-2, resident
rector; Henry Olmstead, D.D., 1872-82, resident rector; Charles H.
Plummer, 1882-3, one year; Melville K. Bailey, 1885-91, resident rec-
tor; F. B. Whitcomb, since June, 1891.
The longest ministry was that of Reverend Henry Olmstead, who
died in the service of the church October 30th, 1882. An appropriate
tablet, commemorating the 21 years of service which he gave the par-
ish, has been placed in the church. His age was 64 years. In his
ministry the Chapel of Grace, at Branford Point, built mainly by Isaac
H. Brown and his friends, of Grace church, New York, was donated to
the parish. Another well-beloved pastor was Frederick Miller, who
died as rector of this church October 3d, 1849, aged 39 years. Both
are buried beneath the chancel of the church.
In the ministry of Reverend John M. Garfield the Sunday school
was founded, about 1826, and soon had 50 members. After a few years
it went down, and in 1834 it was reorganized by Isaac H. Tuttle. Eli
F. Rogers became the superintendent and acted continuously until
1865. Samuel E. Linsley then became the superintendent and served
until his death, September 22d, 1883. Since 1834 Eli F. Rogers has
been an officer of the Sunday school, which has about 160 members.
The Branford Baptist Church was constituted in 1838. In the year
1836 Mrs. Nicholas Andrews, a devout member of the Wallingford
Baptist church, lived in Branford, and at her request her pastor. Rev-
erend Simeon Shailer, visited the town and preached. He was fol-
lowed, in 1837, by Reverend Amos D. Watrous, whose services at-
tracted many, but also awakened some hostile feeling and acts of
violence towards him and his property. Not disheartened, Reverend
David T. Shailer came next, beginning regular Sabbath services in
the old Academy building, in December, 1837. The following spring
a large chamber in the Andrews house was fitted up as a place of
worship, and April 8th, 1838, occurred the first public baptism in the
village, Woodward Page and Abigail Johnson being immersed in the
river, near the Neck bridge, in the presence of a great throng of peo-
ple. The same season were also baptized Charles Hopson, George W.
Johnson, Betsy Beers, Nicholas Andrews, Nelson J. Linsley, James
Barker and wife, Mary Ann Goodrich, Irene Page, Maria Russell, Char-
lotte Covert, Mary Beers and Nancy Hopson. These and ten others
were, on the 19th of December. 1838, constituted as the foregoing
church.
60 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
A larger place for meetings having become necessary, the town
yielded its consent that a house should be built on the site of the old
whipping post on the -'green," and the members gave materials and
labor toward building the house, Mr. Shailer himself helping to hew
some of the timbers. Nelson J. Linsley supervised the work of build-
ing. The church edifice was dedicated July 11th, 1840, but not free
from debt. It was more or less a burden on the society for twenty
years, being finally lifted by the Ladies' Aid Society, of which Mrs.
Martha Barker was the president. In 1859, in the pastorate of the
Reverend P. G. Wightman, the house was remodelled, the interior es-
pecially being much changed. In 1866 the work of bettering the
church building was still further carried on at an outlay of $1,800. A
baptistery was built in 1888 and more repairs were made at an outlay
of $1,000. The property is worth $3,500, and the church has 300 sit-
tings.
In 1876 a fine parsonage was built on Rogers street, which is valued
at $3,000, $1,500 being contributed by Ara Baldwin and Mrs. James
Barker.
The church has been reasonably prosperous, having now about 150
members. It has had but two clerks — James Barker, from 1838 until
1882, and James Fowler since that time.
Those elected as deacons were: in 183S, Nicholas Andrews; 1843,
James Barker, Nelson J. Linsley; 1853, Samuel D. Linsley, Giles T.
Baldwin; 1868, James Palmer; 1874, Philander Hopson;* 1879, Har-
vey Beach, Henry W. Hubbard,* Elizur Johnson.*
For many years Giles Baldwin had a Sabbath school at Stony Creek,
and after 1874 Deacon Philander Hopson continued the good work a
number of years at both Branford and Stony Creek. Of the former
school H.W. Hubbard was the superintendent in 1889, and the scholars
numbered about 100.
The ministers of the church have been the following: Reverend
D. T. Shailer until April, 1844, when the church had 62 members; A.
C. Wheat, 1845, for three and a half years; Calvin Topliff, one year;
Lucius Atwater, 1850-4; R. H. Bolles, 1855-6; D. T. Shailer, supply,
1857; P. G. Wightman, 1858-63; A. H. Simons, 1864-7; Curtis Keeney,
eight months; Henry A. Wildridge, eight months; Warren Mason,
1870-3; five supplies in 1874-7; Melville Thwing, first to occupy the
parsonage; C. C. Smith, July, 1877, to May, 1885; J. A. Bailey, supply
\\ years-; P. G. Wightman, supply from October, 1886, to April, 1S87,
and pastor since that time. From his historical sermon, preached on
the 50th anniversary of the founding of the church, in 1888, this ac-
count has been compiled.
Attempts were made by the Methodists as early as 1836 and since
to establish a church at Branford, but for many years without success.
In 1875 the effort was renewed, and a small congregation was organ -
*Present deacons.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 61
ized, which built a house of worship on the street on the south side
of the green. Unfortunately the organization of this society was not
long continued, and in 1878 it disbanded. The building was later
purchased by Doctor Gaylord, who converted it into a neat public hall.
The Tabor Church (Swedish Evangelical Lutheran) occupies a
commanding location in the southern part of the village. It is a
Gothic frame edifice, 40 by 58 feet, with a brick basement and hand-
some corner tower. The corner stone was laid October 20th, 1889, and
the church was formally dedicated August 10th, 1890. The interior is
handsomely finished, and the entire property cost $5,152. It was built
mainly by the efforts of the Swedes and Finlanders in this locality,
the building committee being composed of P. A. R. Engquist, Gustaf
Dahlgren, Joseph Mattson, Peter Palson, Herman Mickelson, H. Jacob-
son, John Gulland, Charles Damberg. The congregation occupying
this house was organized in the fall of 1887, with a few members. But
there has been a steady and encouraging increase, there being now
more than one hundred members belonging. The meetings were
first held in the basement of the Congregational meeting house, Rev-
erend Henry Jacobson being the minister.
St. Mary's Church (Roman Catholic). The mass of the Catholic
church was first said in Branford at the house of Francis Harding, in
the summer of 1851. That family was one of the first professing the
Catholic faith to take up its abode in the town, and a son, Michael
Patrick Harding, who was born April 15th, 1850, was the first native
Irish-American of Branford. The officiating priest at this mass was
the Reverend Father John Sheridan, who came from New Haven, and
was followed by Father Matthew Hart, of St. Patrick's church of the
same city, who opened the ground for the church, which was raised
in 1855, while Father John Lynch was in charge of the mission, which
was now here maintained by St. Patrick's parish. In 1861 Reverend
James Bohen was assigned to the parish, composed of the shore towns
east of New Haven, and in 1862 was followed by Reverend Thomas
Quinn. Reverend James F. Campbell became the priest in 1865 and
enlarged the church building. After three years he was followed by
Reverend Thomas Mullen. Since September 1st, 1876, the resident
priest has been Reverend Edward Martin. Branford became a dis-
tinct parish in the spring of 1887, when Guilford was set off. It con-
tained, in 1890, 177 families and 1,200 persons, and was growing in
numbers and influence.
Besides the church building the parish owns a fine priest's house
and two places of interments. The old cemetery, in the northern part
of the village, is well filled, and contains a number of handsome mon-
uments. The new one of 14 acres is east of the village, and was pur-
chased in 1889 for $2,500.
Until the present century the town had but one public place of
burial — the cemetery at Branford village. On the 30th of November,
62 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
1810, the burial place at Mill Plain was occupied, young Ammi Beach
being- the first interred there. The area is small, but the ground is
well enclosed and filled with graves, many being marked with head-
stones. These indicate the burial at that place of members of the
Beach, Baldwin, Bartholomew, Barker, Downs, Frisbie, Hoadley, Nor-
ton, Tyler, Towner and Rogers families. The third place of burial
was opened at Damascus, June 18th, 1812, and Mrs. Lucretia Day was
the first person buried at that place. After the dates named the latter
two places were used mainly by the inhabitants of the Stony Creek
section until 187C, when the cemetery was opened in that locality.
The Catholics have a place of burial at Bran ford village, and
another east of Branford river, on the Guilford road.
The old cemetery has been used from the time of settlement. It
contains many graves, some of which are unmarked. The area has
been increased from time to time, a large addition being made after
1850. Mrs. Sally Gillett gave $2,000 as a fund for the care of the cem-
etery, and that proper attention might be paid to the graves of her-
self and consort. A brown sandstone monument marks this resting
place in the new part of the cemetery, and the inscriptions are as
follows:
Rev. Timothy P. Gillett,
Died Nov. 5, 1866,
Aged 86 Yr's,
A preacher of the Gospel 61 years, and pastor of the First Cong'l Church in Bran-
ford 58 years.
" I know in whom I have believed."
Mrs Sally Gillett,
wife OF
Rev. Timothy P. Gillett,
Died May 20, 1887,
Aged 100 Years & 2 Months.
In the old part of the cemetery, near the spot where stood the first
meeting house, is the table monument to the memory of Reverend
Samuel Russell and his wife. In the same part of the cemetery are
the graves of Reverend George L. Russell, who died in 1844, and of
Reverend Rutherford Russell, who died in 1876. In this cemetery is
also the well marked grave of Reverend Philemon Robbins, who died
August 13th, 1781.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Daniel Averill, born in 1817, is a son of David and Polly (Morris)
Averill, and grandson of Daniel Averill, who was a drummer in the
revolutionary war. Mr. Averill followed the sea in coasting and West
India trade until 1877. He married Jane, daughter of Seth Bradley, of
East Chatham, N. Y. They have two children: Delbert C. and La-
verne S. Delbert married Estella Shepard, of Branford, and has one
HISTORV OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 63
son, Roy Victor, born in 1880. Laverne married Samuel Hodgkinson
of England, and has one son, Harold Daniel, born 1890.
'Henry W. Averill, born in 1851, is a son of Samuel and Myrtie
(Fowler) Averill, and grandson of Daniel Averill. Mr. Averill is a
farmer. He married Hattie, daughter of Albert C. Gardiner, of Rhode
Island.
John U. Baldwin, born in 1836 at Carmel, N. Y., is a son of Arvah
and Harriet (Carpenter) Baldwin. He came to Guilford with his
parents when a boy, and after his marriage settled at his present
home in Branford. He is a farmer and butcher. He married Mary
E., daughter of Alva Kelsey. Their children are: A. Earle and Mel-
vina C.
Harvey R. Barker is the only son of James and Martha (Beach)
Barker, and grandson of Captain Archilus Barker, who was a revolu-
tionary soldier and sea captain. Mr. Barker is a farmer. He married
Sarah, daughter of Richard Hubbard. They have three children:
James, who is a farmer with his father; Elizabeth A., now Mrs. Fred
Smith; and Susan J., now Mrs. E. R. Monroe.
David Beach, born in 1817. is a son of John and Sally (Harrison)
Beach, and grandson of John H. Beach. Mr. Beach is a farmer,
though the two sons operate the farm at present. He married Sylvia
Baldwin. Their children were: Betsey B., John H., who married Car-
rie Linsley; Frank E., who married Alida Duncan; and two that died
in infancy.
John Bishop, son of Jonathan C. and Lydia (Tyler) Bishop, and
grandson of James Bishop, was born in 1818, and is the youngest of
five children. Mr. Bishop is a farmer. For twelve years he was select-
man of Branford. He married Thankful K., daughter of Elias Gould.
They have two children living: Elias G. and Sarah E. (Mrs. William
Whiting); and two died in infancy.
John Augustus Blackstone is a son of Augustus and Esther (Lins-
ley) Blackstone, and grandson of John, whose father, John, was a son
of John Blackstone, who died in 1785, and is supposed to be a grand-
son of William Blackstone, who came to New England in the early
part of the seventeenth century. Mr. Blackstone was born in 1829.
He was married in 1855 to H. Minerva, daughter of Rewel Andrews.
They have two sons: Charles A. and Ruel A., both married and fol-
lowing- the business of farming- with their father. Mr. Blackstone has
held the office of selectman eight successive years, also tax collector,
assessor and town agent.
Ralph Blackstone, born in 1825, is a son of Ralph and Sally (Pond)
Blackstone, and grandson of John, whose father, John, was a son of
John, a descendant of William Blackstone. Mr. Blackstone is a far-
mer. He married Mary, daughter of Orrin Hoadley. She died, leav-
ing two daughters, Valnette and Emeline E.
64 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Richard Bradley, born in 1850, is a son of Gurdon and Ann M«
(Spink) Bradley, and grandson of Timothy^Bradley. Mr. Bradley is a
contractor and builder, and has worked at carpentering for twenty
years. He was selectman one year. He married Mary C, daughter of
Leonard and Harriet E. (Yale) Smith. Their children are: Frank S.,
Harriet E. and Charles, who died in infancy.
Frank E. Brainard, son of John W. and Esther L. (Bailey) Brain-
ard, grandson of Deanthiuem Brainard, and great-grandson of Sylves-
ter O. Brainard, was born in 1861. Mr. Brainard has been a merchant
at Stony Creek since 1884. He married Anna, daughter of Ira M.
Brown. They have one daughter, Florence.
Terence Brannigan came from Ireland in 1868. He is an iron
moulder by trade. He has lived in Branford since 1876, and since
1888 has kept a dry goods and clothing store. He married Catharine
A. Winnithan. They have five children: Angeline, Daniel, Jeremiah,
Terence and Catharine.
Ebenezer J. Coe, who died in 1889, aged 72 years, came from Mid-
dlefield to Stony Creek in 1854. He married Phebe, daughter of John
and Esther (Coe) Burdsey. Their children are: Ruth B. (Mrs. Els-
worth Austin), John W. (of Meriden), Mattie R. (Mrs.W. C. Maynard),
and Fannie R. (Mrs. W. Wallace). Mr. Coe kept the " Three Elms
House" for several years prior to his death, and his widow and daugh-
ter now keep it.
Elbert H. Coe, born in 1820 in Middlefield, Conn., is a son of Amos
and Harriet (Johnson) Coe, and grandson of Seth Coe. Mr. Coe, in
1859, came from Middlefield to Stony Creek, where he has since been
a farmer. He married Louisa C, daughter of Alfred Bailey. Their
children are: Ellen (Mrs. Joseph Howard), Harriet (Mrs. Lembert
Chidsey), Timothy A., Phebe (Mrs. Walter Foote), and one daughter
that died, Ida. Timothy A. Coe was born in 1857, and is a farmer and
milkman. He married Martha, daughter of Bela Foote.
Samuel S. Cook, born in 1825, is a son of Samuel and Margaret
(Hobert) Cook, and grandson of Joseph Cook. Mr. Cook was a shoe
manufacturer until the war began. He was in the army in Company
B, 27th Connecticut Volunteers, as sergeant nine months. He then
followed the sea for twelve years, after which he was foreman of the
packing department of the Malleable Iron Fittings Company for ten
years. He married Caroline C, daughter of Chandler and Lucy Lor-
etta (Collins) Page. They had four children : Alice E. (Mrs. L. J.
Nichols), Anderson S., and two sons that died— Everett E. and Ever-
ett A.
Eckford Davis, born in 1836 in Killingworth, is a son of Lewis and
Sally (Burr) Davis, and grandson of Peter Davis. Mr. Davis came
from Killingworth to Branford in 1860, where he has been a farmer.
He married Sarah E., daughter of Eber Beach, granddaughter of An-
drew, and great-granddaughter of Ephraim, whose father, Andrew
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 65
Beach, in 1737, came to Branford and settled near where Mr. and Mrs.
Davis now live. Their only daughter, Mary T., is now Mrs. Elon Bragg.
C. Wilbur Field, son of Danforth C. and Lucretia (Griswold) Field,
grandson of James E. and great-grandson of Samuel Field, was born
in 1837. Mr. Field is a farmer. He married Sarah, daughter of
George Bailey. Their children were: George W. (deceased), Charles
M. (deceased), Minnie I., Homer W. (deceased), Fannie E., James C,
Wallace D., Elsie J. and Lillia L.
George C. Field, son of Danforth and Lucretia (Griswold) Field,
was born in 1836, and is a blacksmith and farmer. He married Sarah,
daughter of George L. Dowd. They have an adopted son, George I.
William R. Foote, oldest living son of Samuel and Sarah E. (Rus-
sell) Foote, was born in 1848, and is a farmer. He was two years
selectman, and has held other town offices. He married Nettie, daugh-
ter of Samuel Averill. Their children are: Wallace H. and Mabel L.,
living; and Ada and Roland T., deceased.
Charles Woodward Gaylord, M.D., was born in Wallingford, this
county, August 28th, 1846, and his parents are still residents of that
town. He was the eldest of three children born to David and Bertha
(Bartholomew) Gaylord, the other members of the family being Wil-
liam Bartholomew, who became a business man of Meriden, where he
died in October, 1889, aged 40 years; and a daughter, Ida, who married
Frank Brown, of Meriden. Charles W. Gaylord is grandson of John
Gaylord, whose father, John, was one of three brothers — Elias, Nathan
and John — who came from England and settled in Cheshire and Wal-
lingford, in the locality long known as Gaylord hill. In the war of
the revolution the grandfather, John, served in defense of the colony
of Connecticut, having warmly espoused the patriot cause.
Doctor Gaylord spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, until
he was 18 years old, when he went to the Connecticut Literary Insti-
tution at Suffield, where he was two years preparing for college. In
the fall of 1866 he entered Yale, and graduated from that institution
in 1870. He soon after began to qualify himself for the medical pro-
fession, beginning his studies in the Yale Medical School, and pursu-
ing also a course in the Bellevue Hospital and the College of Physi-
cians and Surgeons, in the city of New York. In the summer of 1872
he graduated from the Yale school, and for a few months assisted
Doctor Benjamin Franklin Harrison, of Wallingford, in his practice.
In November, 1872, he located at Branford, where he established an
independent practice, which soon grew to large proportions, and which
has been successfully continued in this and the adjoining towns.
Although comparatively a young man, Doctor Gaylord ranks as one of
the leading country practitioners in the county. He is a member of
the Connecticut State and New Haven County Medical Societies.
Since the passage of the new coroner's law, he has served as medical
examiner for the towns of Branford and North Branford.
5
66 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
On the 27th of February, 1873, Doctor Gaylord was married to Miss
Anna Rose, of Essex, Conn. Two sons and three daughters have
come to bless this union, viz.: Lynde Vincent, January 31st, 1874;
Bertha Rose, June 5th, 1876; Anna Evangeline, July 8th, 1884; Charles
William, February 27th, 1889; Ruth Marguerite, March 21st, 1891.
Doctor Gaylord is enterprising, progressive and public-spirited,
and has warmly identified himself with the best interests of his
adopted home. He was an active member of the Branford Village Im-
provement Society as long as it existed, and to its efforts can be attrib-
uted much of the changes wrought in the appearance of the place.
He was also interested in the establishment and maintenance of a vil-
lage lyceum, under whose auspices several instructive courses of lec-
tures were held. In the furtherance of this purpose to provide for
the entertainment and instruction of the community, he fitted up, in
1879, a public hall, which he has since made one of the most cosy little
opera houses in smaller places. He has taken an unabated interest in
schools, serving as chairman of the board of education, and for a num-
ber of years was the acting school visitor. In this period the schools
were greatly improved and are yearly advanced to a higher plane.
Since being at Branford, Doctor Gaylord has been a member of the
Congregational church, and gives it a warm support. His political
preferences have allied him to the republican party, but he is in no
sense a partisan when the interests of the town are at stake. In this
relation he has endeavored, at all times,- to conform his life to the best
standard of true citizenship — to be energetic and progressive in his
own affairs, but ever to be mindful of his obligations to his town and
the state which protects his home.
Charles H. Grannis, son of John and Sally Griffin Grannis, was
born in 1851. His grandfather was Jared Grannis. Mr. Grannis has
been twelve years in the meat business, and since November, 1888, has
owned a market of his own.
Michael P. Harding, son of Francis and Ellen Harding, was born
in 1850, and was the first child born in Branford of Irish parentage.
Mr. Harding succeeded his father in the mercantile trade in 1871, the
latter dying in August of that year. He was representative in 1876
of general assembly. At present he stands the fifth highest taxpayer
of the town taxes. He is vice-president of the Branford Savings Bank,
and has held a number of different public offices in the town.
Henry G. Harrison, born in 1831, is a son of John and Betsey Har-
rison. He was married April 11th, 1869, to Harriet L., daughter of
Harry and Nancy (Towner) Rogers, and granddaughter of Jarus
Rogers.
William H. Hartley, born in 1844, in New Haven, is a son of
William and Sarah (White) Hartley, and grandson of William Hartley.
Mr. Hartley is a farmer. In 1871 he bought the old Governor Salton-
stall homestead, at the foot of Saltonstall lake, where he now lives.
CJi^A.. c rcl ?K.&
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 67
He married Mary Woods. They have six children: Mary A., Sarah
G., Annie M., Theresa, Josephine and William.
Benjamin A. Hosley,sonof LoringD. and Anna A. (Beach) Hosley,
was born in 1823, and is a farmer. He was married in 1849 to Lois
W., daughter of William Ward, of Vermont. Their children are:
Benjamin F., Anna M. (Mrs. George W. Dory), John H., M. Carrie
(Mrs. G. W. McClunie), William H., Edward K., and one that died—
Judith E. Benjamin F. Hosley, eldest son of Benjamin A., was born
in 1852, and is a contractor and builder. He married Idella, daughter
of Russell and Lydia (Tyler) Pond.
Henry W. Hubbard, born in 1833, in Hartford, is a son of Richard
and Rebecca Hubbard. Mr. Hubbard is a blacksmith and wagon
maker. He came from Middletown, Conn., to Branford in 1855, and
has worked at his trade since that time, with the exception of nine
months, when he was in the civil war, in Company B, 27th Connecti-
cut Volunteers. He married Emma P., daughter of James Linsley-
They have three daughters: Ida P., Henrietta W. and Luella L.
Frederick Jourdan, born in 1822, at Basel, Switzerland, came to
Branford in 1850, where he was a butcher and farmer until 1876, when
he began the lumber and coal business, which he and his son have
since conducted. He married Fannie E., daughter of Edward Lins-
ley. They have one son, Henry F. Mr. Jourdan has been a mem-
ber of the school board for a number of years, and has held other
town offices.
George W. Lanfair, born in 1830, is a son of Oliver and Chloe
(Steele) Lanfair, and grandson of Oliver Lanfair. Mr. Lanfair is a
carriage maker by trade. He is now a farmer, owning and occupying
the homestead of his father and grandfather, at Double Beach. His
first wife was Emily Augur, who died leaving four children: Charles,
Edna, Nellie and Sadie. His present wife was Mattie, daughter of
Sheldon Hitchcock.
Peter A. Lundquist, born in Sweden in 1846, is the son of P. J. Lund-
quist. He came to Connecticut in 1872, and to Stony Creek in 1878,
where he has since been a stone mason. His wife was Sophia
Johnson.
Daniel O'Brien, born in 1845 in Ireland, is a son of John O'Brien.
He came to Branford in 1854. He has been employed in the knob
department of the Branford Lock Works since 1862, and since 1874 has
been foreman of the department. He has been selectman three terms,
and a member of the school board twelve years. He married Kate
O'Donnell and has twelve children.
Sidney V. Osborn, born March 10th, 1856, in Woodbury, Conn., is
a son of Aaron and Polly (Bishop) Osborn, and grandson of Daniel
Osborn. Mr. Osborn came to Branford May 7th, 1879, where he has
since been a farmer. He was for one year assessor of the town, in
1889, and one of the board of selectmen in 1890 and 1891. He mar-
68 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ried May 6th. 1S79, Emma, daughter of Daniel and Alvira Tyler, of
Middlebury, New Haven county, Conn., and granddaughter of Daniel
Tyler, of Middlebury. They have one son, Sidney V., Jr., born Janu-
ary 23d, 1888.
George Palmer, born in 1829, is a son of Lauren and Polly (Butler)
Palmer, and grandson of Jared Palmer. Mr. Palmer is a farmer, and
has what are acknowledged to be the finest farm barns in the town.
He has been for 25 years insurance agent, and for 30 years agent for
farm implements. He married Ellen J., daughter of Hezekiah War-
ner, of Wheeling, W. V. They have one daughter, Fannie, a school
teacher.
Samuel Orrin Plant was born in Branford, January 24th, 1815.
He is a son of Samuel and Sarah (Frisbie) Plant, and was the young-
est of their family of five children, namely: Anderson, deceased in Bran-
ford, the father of Henry B. Plant, the president of the Plant system
of Southern transportation companies; Sarah, married Judah Frisbie,
a merchant of New Haven; John, a deacon of the church, and who
died as a farmer at Plantsville; Mary R., deceased at the age of 17
years; and Samuel O.
The father of this family was a son of Benjamin Plant, who de-
scended from the Plant family which was among the early settlers of
Branford, and whose allotment of land was in the fertile little valley,
a mile from the village, and bounded on the west by the Branford
hills. Here for six generations have been the homes of the Plant fam-
ily in Branford, and for many years the place bore the name of Plants-
ville. At this place lived Samuel Plant, when he served as a coast
guard in the war of 1S12, and here he died in July, 1861, aged 90
years.
Benjamin Plant, the grandfather of Samuel O., also rendered mili-
tary service. In the revolution he and two of his sons were enlisted.
One of them was with Washington in his perilous retreat across the
Delaware; the other son, Timothy, was killed at the battle of German-
town. The maternal grandfather, Joseph Frisbie, was also a patriot
and there is a tradition that he was with the detachment of soldiers at
the execution of Major Andre. Mr. Plant thus being of revolutionary
stock, has become a member of the Connecticut Society of the Sons of
the American Revolution.
Samuel O. Plant was educated in the common schools of his native
town, at the academy at Branford, and also attended the boys' school
of General James N. Palmer, at New Haven, where he was a class-
mate of General A. H. Terry. In February, 1841, he married Mary
A., daughter of the venerable Captain James Blackstone, of Branford.
By this union two children attained mature years: Ellen B. Plant, of
Branford; and Sarah F., who became the wife of Judge Lynde Harri-
son, of New Haven.
Since his boyhood Mr. Plant has been a farmer, and to that occu-
6/ & /Xh^
~7
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 69
pation has industriously confined his efforts, achieving- well-merited
success. Although limiting himself to the private walks of life, he is
well-known and enjoys the respect and esteem of his townsmen as one
of the leading citizens of Branford. Mr. Plant was a whig until that
party ceased to exist, and has since been a republican. For the past
fifty years he has been a member of the Branford Congregational
church.
Willis T. Robinson, born in 1847, is a son of John H. and Julia A.
(Tyler) Robinson. He has been engaged in mercantile trade in Bran-
ford for a number of years. He married Lucy F., daughter of Gilbert
Gaylord. Their children are: James H.. Oswin H., and one that died,
John G. Mr. Robinson was a member of the house of representatives
in 1886.
Henry Rogers, born at Branford July 31st, 1821, is a descendant
of two of the oldest and most respected families in the county. He is
a son of Abraham and Fanny (Fowler) Rogers, a grandson of Abraham
Rogers, great-grandson of John Rogers, whose father, also John, was
a son of Noah Rogers, the first of the family name to settle in Bran-
ford. It is claimed on good authority that the latter's ancestor.William
Rogers, was a son of Thomas Rogers, who came from England in the
"Mayflower," in 1620. Some of his sons, according to Governor Brad-
ford,* had been left in England, but followed their father to this
country, and William was at Wethersfield as early as 1640. He prob-
ably removed with Andrew Ward and his company to Stamford,
Conn., about 1641, and later went with the company to Hempstead,
L. I., where he was allotted some land. He afterward moved to
Southampton, L. I., where he died about 1650, and his widow deceased
at Huntington, L. I., about 1664. From the latter place, about three
years later, the youngest son, Noah, removed to Branford. Here he
married, April 8th, 1673, Elizabeth Taintor, and had a family of four
sons and three daughters. Their son, John, married Lydia Frisbie,
daughter of John Frisbie, January 17th, 1713. Of their family of four
sons and the same number of daughters, John, the great-grandfather
of the subject of this sketch, was one. He married Thankful, daugh-
ter of Nathaniel Harrison, Jr., Esq., and one of their five children was
Abraham Rogers, the grandfather. The wives of the foregoing
Rogers' ancestors were daughters of some of the earliest and most
prominent settlers of Branford. Lydia Frisbie was a granddaughter
of Reverend John Bowers, one of the first ministers in Branford, and
Michael Taintor, John Frisbie, Nathaniel Harrison and Nathaniel
* History of Plymouth Plantation 1636, p. 449.
[Passengers in the " Mayflower."]
" Thomas Rogers Joseph his sone his other children came afterwards."
P. 543: "Thomas Rogers dyed in the first sickness, but his son Joseph is
still living and is Married and hath 6 children."
" The rest of Thomas Rogers [children] came over and are married and
have many children."
70 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Harrison, Jr., as well as Noah Rogers, were frequently, in their day.
members of the general court.
Abraham Rogers, senior, was married in Branford, March 11th.
1773, to Hannah, daughter of Benjamin Palmer, and of their family
of six children there was but the one son, Abraham, the father of
Henry Rogers. The elder Rogers removed to Stony Creek, where he
died in 1827, being at that time one of the largest landowners of the
town. Besides being a farmer he was in the coasting trade, and owned
several vessels. He served in the revolution, being with the Connec-
ticut militia in their retreat on Long Island, in the fall of 1776.
On November 16th, 1809, Abraham Rogers, Jr., married Fanny,
daughter of Eli Fowler, of Branford. They reared a family of four
sons: Eli F., born July 15th, 1811; Abraham, born June 11th, 1813;
Elizur, born November 2d, 1816; Henry, born July 31st, 1821. All
settled in Branford, becoming useful and honored citizens. The father
remained on the homestead, and for many years was a justice of the
peace, besides holding other town offices. He died in 1870. In the
war of 1812 he was first lieutenant in the 5th Company, 2d Regiment
of state corps of troops. In 1814 the British, under Commander
Hardy, blockaded the Long Island sound coasts, and threatened to
make incursions into Connecticut. Troops were called out and the
5th Company, with Lieutenant Rogers in command, was in service
from September 12th, 1814, until the following October 20th. Most of
the service was at New Haven, in the regiment of Colonel Sanford.
The maternal ancestry of Henry Rogers is equally important, the
descent being from William Fowler, the magistrate, who came to
America in 1637, and who was one of the leading settlers of Milford.
From that town John Fowler moved to Guilford in 1649, marrying
Mary Hubbard, of Guilford (daughter of George Hubbard, formerly
of Wethersfield), and in his new home became a man of note. His
son, Abraham, born in 1652, married in 1677, Elizabeth, daughter of
Deacon George Bartlett. They were the parents of Abraham Fowler,
Jr., born in 1683. The elder Abraham Fowler was one of the most
important men of the town in his day, representing it in the general
courts and serving as a justice until his death in 1720. The last eight
years of his life he was a member of the governor's council. In
1720 his son, Abraham Fowler, Jr., married Elizabeth, daughter of
Daniel Hubbard, Jr., and their youngest child, Noah, was born in 1730.
The latter married Deborah Pendleton, daughter of Joshua Pendleton,
of Stonington, who was a descendant of Andrew Ward, one of the very
first settlers of Connecticut, and who helped to found that plantation.
She also descended from William Spencer, who was one of the depu-
ties of the new colony in 1639. Noah Fowler became a large land
owner, living on a part of his estate in Guilford, near the Branford
line. His revolutionary service was very honorable. He marched
with his company, as its captain, to the relief of Boston in 1775, served
u
sA^l
^£OZ^
7
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 71
as major of his regiment in the Long Island retreat in 1776, and was
on the coast guard many times during the war. At the formation of
the 27th Regiment of militia, about 1780, he was appointed its colonel.
His son, Eli Fowler, maternal grandfather of Henry Rogers, was
born April 1st, 1765, and in 1784 married Mary, daughter of Ebenezer
Hopson, of Guilford. About 1790 he settled on a»part of his father's
estate, in Branford, which he occupied until his death in 1850. He
was a man of great prominence and served in many official capacities.
In 1797 he was elected a member of the state legislature and was re-
turned to that body 17 times, the last time being in 1819. In ISIS he
was a member of the constitutional convention; in 1806 he was ap-
pointed a brigadier general of Connecticut Militia; January 8th, 1814,
he was commissioned colonel of a regiment of artillery to defend the
state coast; from 1816 until his death he was a deacon of the Congre-
gational church. One of his five daughters, Fanny, born April 24th,
1789, was the wife of Abraham Rogers, Jr. She was a most excellent
woman and was held in great esteem.
Henry Rogers, her youngest son, was reared on the old homestead
as a farmer, living there and following that occupation until 1870,
when he began to divide his land into building lots, and his former
farm is now covered with the principal part of the village of Stony
Creek. He was also active in the introduction of the present system
of oyster cultivation at Stony Creek, and has been concerned in the
development of those celebrated beds. In 1851, at the first election of
the people for that office, he was elected justice of the peace and served
until 1858. In 1877 he was a member of the general assembly of the
state and has held numerous minor offices, to the satisfaction of his
townsmen, who hold his worth in high esteem.
Mr. Rogers was married May 16th, 1849, to Elizabeth, daughter of
John Townsend, of Oneida county, N. Y. The only child by this union
is a son, Edward Henry, born September 4th, 1854. He graduated
from Yale in 1875 and from the law school of that university in 1877,
and is now a successful attorney in New York city.
John Rogers, born in 1821, is a son of Jarus and Fannie (Frisby)
Rogers, and grandson of Isaac Rogers. He is a farmer. He was se-
lectman two years. He married Mary C, daughter of Peter Winn.
They had two children: Ida O. and J. Sumner, both deceased.
Charles H. Wilford, born in 1842, is a son of John and Lucretia
(Goodnow) Wilford, grandson of John Augustus, and great-grandson
of John Wilford. Mr. Wilford is an iron moulder by trade. Since
1874 he has been engaged in the butchering business. He was mar-
ried in 1866, to Hattie, daughter of John Grannis. They have five
children living and have lost three.
CHAPTER II.
THE TOWN OF NORTH BRANFORD.
Location and Description. — Settlement and Settlers. — Civil Organization. — General
Industrial Interests.— Bare Plain.— North Branford Village.— Northford.— Masonic
Lodge. — Patrons of Husbandry. — Educational Affairs. — North Branford Congrega-
tional Church.— Northford Congregational Church.— The "Enrolled" Church. —
Zion (Protestant Episcopal) Church. — St. Andrew's (Protestant Episcopal) Church.
—Bare Plain Union Chapel.— Cemeteries.— Roster of Captain Eells Company in the
Revolution. — Soldiers' Monument. — Biographical Sketches.
IN 1831 the " North Society " and the " Northford Society," in the
old town of Branford, were formed into a new town, with the name
of North Branford. It is about five and a half miles long from
north to south, and a little more than four miles wide. The Totoket
mountain extends through the greater part of it from northeast to
southwest, causing a large part of the area to be unfit for cultivation.
Other sections are hilly, but east and west of the general ranges are
some pleasantly located and fertile lands, which have been well im-
proved. The west section is drained by Farm river and its affluent
brooks. The former is the outlet of Pistapaug lake and affords several
small but good water powers. In East Haven this stream is called
Stony river. Along it are some pleasant vales and meadow lands.
The east section is drained by Stony creek and Branford river, both
small streams. Agriculture is the chief occupation of the inhabitants
and the town has had, in all periods, a number of substantial farmers.
It has also been noted for the sturdy, self-reliant nature of its inhabi-
tants, as well as the general intelligence which characterized them.
Regarding the early settlements of the town, the Reverend Elijah
C. Baldwin, who thoroughly investigated it, said:
" It seems quite clear that when the territory Totoket was pur-
chased of the Indians, in 1638, two white families were already on the
ground. One was Thomas Mulliner, who claimed as his a large tract
in Branford Point region. The other was Thomas Whitway. He was
living in the vicinity of Foxon. Both were identified with the early
settlement of North Branford. As Whitway \s settlement was within
the Branford lines, it must have been a portion of the region since and
now called Bare Plain. The New Haven purchasers, before selling to
the Branford settlers, arranged with Mulliner to give up a consider-
able portion of his claim. Whitway was left to enjoy peaceable pos-
session of his, partly because the land was not wanted and partly be-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 73
cause he made himself useful. He understood the Indian language
and could act as interpreter on occasion. ' Nov. 11, 1644, upon com-
plaint made by some of the planters of Totoket, that the Mohegan In-
dians have done much damage to them by setting their traps in the
walks of their cattell, itt was ordered that the marshall shall goe with
Thomas Whitway to warne Uncus or his brother, or else Foxon to
come and speake with the Governor and the magestrat.es.' The
name Foxon shows the origin of the designation of the western por-
tion of this locality. Whitway went with the marshal to interpret
for him without doubt. Thomas Whitway died on December 12th,
1651. His lands were reclaimed by the town because he seems to
have left no heirs to continue in possession of them. Other parties
beginning to occupy them, the town in 1695 took measures before the
court to keep them off, E. Stent and John Rose to enter caveat upon
such lands at a special court at New Haven April 23d, 1695.
" Thomas Mulliner also died in due time, but his son, Thomas, who
was his sole heir, so far as known, was living in 1691. That year it is
on record that Thomas Mulliner and his wife, Martha, give up all
other claims to land, and are given 200 acres of land in the extreme
northwest corner of the town. This was a piece almost square,
bounded by New Haven and Wallingford. In 1714, December 25th,
Horseman Mulliner and his wife Elizabeth sell to Nathaniel Johnson
the 200 acres. The Mulliners moved then to Westchester county, New
York, and no more appear in Branford history.
" In 1687, March 4, John Rosewell, Samuel Hoadley, Joseph Foot,
Josiah Frisbie, William Barker, John Maltbie* and Isaac Bartholomew
were granted a parcel of land one mile square in the western and
northerly part of the town. That grant must have included much of
the land in the district of Bare Plain. The conditions were that each
man was to build a habitable house and settle on his land within three
years. If any failed to do this they could not hold the property.
These were young men starting out to secure homes for themselves.
There is much reason to believe that Foote, Maltbie, Hoadley, Frisbie
and Bartholomew did settle on these lands." They were thus the
founders of families that have ever since been in North Branford.
"Josiah Frisbie was the son of Edward Frisbie. John Maultbie was
probably the son of William Maultbie, and Joseph Foote was the son
of Robert Foote. Samuel Hoadley was probably the son of William
Hoadley, who was, August 25th, 1697, granted the privilege of setting
up a saw mill on Stony river (Farm river), if he would agree to sell
boards at five shillings, and not take more than half a log to pay for
sawing it. William Maultbie was a justice and magistrate in the town.
September 28th, 1699, he was granted the liberty to retail 'rhum.'
March 21st, 1700, John Maultbie removes to New London, and sells to
his father William.
*Also spelled Maultbie.
74 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
" Captain Jonathan Rose, son of Robert Rose, built a house near
Hop- Yard Plain before A700." His father was one of the Branford
original proprietors. There is a tradition " that Robert Rose owned
ten cows and sixty horses; also, that the Sunday ' milking ' was always
given to the poor. The Bible he brought with him from England,
printed in 1599, is still extant. It has been, in its time, the property
of three or four deacons of the Rose family." Colonel George Rose,
prominent in the later affairs of the town, who died in 18S4, was a
descendant.
"Bare Plain was settled by Frisbie, Hoadley and others before 1700.
John Linsley and Bartholomew Goodrich were among the earliest and
largest owners of North Branford lands. Ensign Isaac Harrison and
Eleazer Stent drew lands on others' rights, which they had bought,
and thus were early owners. June 6th, 1700, John Coley, of New Lon-
don, a grandson of John Linsley, of Branford, sells a Bare Plain farm
to John Barnes. It was land on which the new chapel is now built.
The Barnes house stood out in the middle of this farm lot, south of
the present chapel. This John Barnes gets liberty from the town,
October 26th, 1702, to build a Sabbath day house on the common at
Branford Center. Other families were rapidly pushing up to settle
in the northern half of Branford territory. Hence there was a ne-
cessity of another division of lands." It was completed March 9th,
1703.
: ' This was the fourth proprietor's division and a long step toward
equalizing rights. It disposed of most of the lands now in North
Branford. It also confirmed the titles of several who were already in
possession. There were fourteen different parcels. A roughly drawn
map of this division is to be found upon the 223d page of the 2d vol-
ume of Branford town records. Along the Wallingford line, from west
to east, were Thomas Mulliner, Thomas Wheadon and Ensign Harri-
son, who drew for William Hoadley.
" The next range below, from west to east, was drawn by Josiah
Frisbie for Samuel Frisbie, Eleazer Stent for the Rosewell family,
John Linsley for Bartholomew Goodrich. Below Rosewell was Wil-
liam Hoodly again. The eastern tier extending from boundary of
present Northfield Society to Guilford road at Paved street comprised
the particles of Jonathan Rose, Micah Palmer, Samuel Pond and
Thomas Gutsell. Next west was a tier assigned to John Rose, Noah
Rogers and William Maultbie. Still another tier west was set to Mr.
Maultbie, Nathaniel Foote, Josiah Frisbie and William Barker for
Thomas Sargeant."
Concerning the Northford section, the Reverend A. C. Pierce said
in his historical sermon, in 1876 :
" With respect to the precise time of settlement, it is not easy now
to determine it with absolute certainty; but from the earliest dates to
be found upon the tombstones in your cemetery, and from some other
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 75 •
evidence, traditional and otherwise, of which I have been able to
avail myself,! have judged that this must have taken place not far
from the year 1720. The tradition is, that various individuals from
the town of Branford, to which the parish then belonged, in the pur-
suit of a larger success in their industry, and with something of that
roving and adventurous spirit which has ever characterized the people
of our New England towns, and which has so rapidly peopled the
broad West, were accustomed to leave their homes in the opening
spring with their provisions and implements of husbandry for a sort
of backwoods life through the summer months, occupying "clearings"
at the base of your mountain range, from which they gathered ample
crops, returning again by their woods' path with the approach of win-
ter to enjoy the fruits of their summer absence, in the bosom of their
families.
"The first encampments of these Branford laborers, it is said, were
at the foot of the mountain, near the dwelling long occupied by Dea-
con Ralph Linsley — the place of these encampments, determined, per-
haps, by the fact that there the laborers were well sheltered by the
high bluff from southern and easterly winds, and that there they might
avail themselves of pure and abundant supplies of water from a never-
failing spring, still held in high esteem.
" But evidently this migratory sort of life could not long continue,
and arrangements for a continuous residence in the Northford ' clear-
ing ' must have been shortly made. Near the fountain already alluded
to, a cellar, filled in by the plowshare but a few years ago, was pointed
out as the probable site of the first permanent dwelling, or rather, I
should say, the first erected and occupied by the white men, for in this
immediate vicinity and along side the pelucid stream above were
numerous wigwams of the Indians, two or three of which were inhab-
ited by their dusky owners within the memory of those who were the
oldest residents of the parish when my own ministry here began."
These young men were the descendants of the following early" set-
tlers of the old town of Branford: Michael Taintor, Robert Foote, Peter
Tyler, John Rogers, John Linsley, John Frisbie, William Maltby,
Francis Linsley, Edward Frisbie, Thomas Harrison,William Hoadley,
John Taintor, William Bartholomew. They were soon after joined by
families bearing the names of Cook, Harrington, Barnes, Baldwin,
Todd, Munson and Rose. In most instances these names are still per-
petuated by the present inhabitants, and around them clusters most
of the history of the parish. Among later prominent settlers here
were the Smiths, Fowlers, Williams, Elliotts, Beaches and Whitneys—
all good types of true New England citizens.
Like in most of the inland hill towns of the state, the population
has, in the last half century, decreased instead of increased. In 1880
there were 1,025 inhabitants; in 1890 there were two hundred inhabi-
tants less, but the grand list was about the same as in 1880.
76 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The North Branford people began to ask to be a separate town
soon after the revolutionary war, in which they had taken a very ac-
tive part. In 1799 they asked the legislature to help them to this.
The town strongly opposed the effort. For a time town meetings
were held alternately in the two societies. April 22d, 1751, meetings
were held at Hopyard Plain to do business for both societies. Sep-
tember 21st, 1790 — Voted to hold future town meetings at First So-
ciety's meeting house.
North Branford was finally organized as a town under the terms of
an act passed by the May (1831) session of the general assembly. The
first town election was held at the Congregational meeting house, in
North Branford village, June 13th, 1831, Benjamin Page acting as the
clerk, and was chosen to that office and treasurer. Jesse Linsley, Sam-
uel Bartholomew and Eleazer Harrison were chosen selectmen.
Luther Chidsey, Timothy R. Palmer, L. Talmadge, Gideon Baldwin,
De Grosse Fowler and Wyllys Linsey were chosen tythingmen. The
highway districts were altered and placed in charge of John Maltby,
Jonathan Rose, 2d, Timothy Bartholomew, Jr., Richard Linsley, Jared
Potter, Rufus Rogers, 2d, Levi Rose, Jr. It was voted to hold the
meetings alternately in the North Branford Society and in the North-
ford Society.
At the next regular meeting Rufus Rogers, 2d, Ralph Linsley and
Samuel Foote were chosen as a board of relief.
The town clerks since the organization of the town have been the
following: 1831, Benjamin Page; 1832, Joseph Munroe; 1833, John
Linsley; 1834, Ralph Linsley; 1835-43, Benjamin Page, Jr.; 1844, Wil-
liam M. Fowler; 1845-9, Francis C. Bartholomew; 1850-63, Benjamin
Page, Jr.; 1864-70, T. Russell Palmer; 1871, Charles Page.
In the same period the first selectmen have been: 1831, Captain
Jesse Linsley; 1832, John Rose, 2d; 1833, Timothy Bartholomew; 1834,
Walter R. Foote; 1835, Jesse Linsley; 1836-7, Chauncey Linsley; 1838,
Walter R. Foote; 1839-41, George Rose; 1842, Samuel Rose; 1843,
George Rose; 1844, Timothy Bartholomew; 1845-6, Walter R. Foote;
1847, Langdon Harrison; 1848-9, Levi Talmadge; 1850, Whitney El-
liott; 1851-2, Judson Page; 1853-4, Prelate Dernick; 1855-7, George
Rose; 1858-9, Charles Todd; 1860-2, George Rose; 1863, William D.
Ford; 1864, George Rose; 1865-7, Martin C. Bishop; 1868, George
Rose: 1869-70, Martin C. Bishop; 1871-7, Alden H. Hill; 1878-81,
George Rose; 1882, Alden H. Hill; 1883-4, Herbert O. Page; 1885,
William D. Ford; 1886, Isaac B. Linsley; 1887, Alden H. Hill; 1888-90,
Herbert O. Page.
The town meetings continue to be held alternately in the first
and the second societies, the basement of the meeting house being
rented for that purpose. All manner of accounts are also kept sep-
arately under the heads of these societies. No public buildings are
owned by the town. The yearly expenditures of the town are more
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 77
than $7,000, about $1,800 of which is applied to the maintenance of
schools. About $2,100 is expended annually on roads and bridges,
and the highways are in fair condition. For many years the roads of
the town were mere pathways. The highway to North Guilford was
not located until after 1745. One of the earliest and best roads is
that connecting Northford and North Branford villages. The town
has no railway, but Northford station, on the Air Line railroad, in
North Haven, affords the necessary facilities of that nature a few miles
from Northford.
"Among the earliest interests of North Branford, besides farming,
were fulling mills and barkers' mills, in which cloth was shrunk and
cleaned and hides were tanned. In 1734 Edward Petty was permitted
to set up both a saw mill and fulling mill on the river not far from
the center. In 1742 Barnabus Woodcock had both fulling mill and
barkers' mill on Long Hill. He soon sold to James Burwell. In 1744
James Burwell was given liberty to set up fulling mill on the river,
just south of the North Branford church."
In the Connecticut Journal of November 25th, 1801, appeared the
following advertisement of a fulling mill in this town:
"John Maltby
Informs his Customers and others, as water is scarce among the Clothiers, he has
a good supply of water, and dresses cloth in the neatest order, that he is in want
of what is called Cash, for which he will dress cloth on the shortest notice.
â– He lives in Northford, a place called Pog,
North from Branford, along as you'd Jog.
" Two years before this, Calvin Mansfield, who had removed from
Northford to North Haven, advertised a new mill there. John Maltby,
who had bought the old works at Branford, writes: ' Messers Printers,
I saw in vour paper, No. 1665, a pompous advertisement of one Calvin
Mansfield, of North Haven, setting forth a plurality of clothiers' works.
That gentleman seemeth to be very fond of showing his name in the
public prints. I believe he never owned clothier's works anywhere; I
am certain that the clothier's shop and tools which he advertises for
sale is not his, but the property of the subscriber, and it is not for
sale. I should not have noticed the imposition so much as to put
pen to paper had I been alone concerned. But this trouble I give my-
self to undeceive the public. John Maltby, Northford, in Branford,
Oct. 1st, 1799.'
" This letter called out Mansfield's reply, which is a specimen of the
amenities of discussion then prevailing: ' Messers Printers: If my
optics did not fail I saw in your Journal, No. 1666, a scurvy publication
of a certain John Maltby. of Northford. This Maltby, I fancy, thinks
it a pretty novelty to publish his name also, and that in opposition to
his betters;— children and fools have sometimes doubtless spoken the
truth, but Maltby appears to me an exception to this general rule. I
shall not enlarge, but observe simply that the clothier's works which
78 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
I advertised in your paper, No. 1665, are in fact Foot's and my prop-
erty, and for sale with an indisputable title. The public will need no
further conviction than to come and see the records and the subscriber.
I shall not make another reply to any stuff of Maltby's, but subscribe
myself the public's most obedient servant, Calvin Mansfield, North
Haven, Oct. 7th. 1799.' "*
Mansfield was eccentric, but had a genius for invention, and his
sons, Sherlock and Hiram, were pioneer manufacturers of wooden
buttons and combs, near the village of Northford. John Maltby also
carried on a large cooperage, the products being carted to Fair Haven.
The clothing works were last operated by Henry De Wolf, and the site
is now used by William M. Foote for the manufacture of carriage wood
parts.
Fifty years ago this little Farm river began to be much used to fur-
nish the power needed to carry on the industries devised by some
of the citizens of Northford, there being here an unusual amount
of inventive ability put to practical use. Maltby Fowler was, next to
Mansfield, one of the first of these Northford inventors. He produced
machinery for making metal buttons, combs, spoons, gimlets and pins.
The machine for making the latter articles was one of the first of the
kind in this country, and was sold to Waterbury parties when pin
making was there begun. The sons of Maltby Fowler — William,
■George, De Grosse, Horace, Frederick and Thaddeus — also had me-
chanical ability, and most of them invented useful and meritorious
articles. All are deceased. About 1840 Horace Fowler invented a
machine for embossing silk. Thaddeus Fowler was one of the most
successful inventors of this family. He made a very satisfactory pin
machine, which was used about five years at Northford, in the old
Maltby mill building, by the United States Pin Company, when the
interest was transferred to Seymour, of which place Thaddeus Fowler
became a citizen.
Frederick Fowler invented a machine for rolling brass lamp and
household goods, and in company with F. C. Bartholomew, Isaac H.
Bartholomew and others, formed the Northford Manufacturing Com-
pany, which was organized in April, 1854. They occupied large shops,
supplementing the water power with steam, and successfully operated
about thirty years. Large quantities of tin, japanned and household
goods were manufactured and shipped to all parts of the country.
Operations were last carried on by F. C. Bartholomew, but for several
years the shops have been idle.
The Fowlers and Bartholomews, as the Northford Hook & Eye
Company, made those articles several years, and later manufactured
rivets, but sold the machinery to parties in Chicago. About 1855
Isaac H. Bartholomew and Frederick Fowler invented a machine for
perforating tinware, which was a very useful device. In recent years
♦Reverend E. C. Baldwin.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 79
the former and his sons, Edward and George G. Bartholomew, engaged
in the invention and manufacture of devices for electrical liehtinsr,
occupying a part of the old hook and eye factory. Dynamos and other
appliances are made.
At Northford David S. Stevens and others formerly manufactured
iron and steel plated spoons, the industry giving work to about thirty
persons, but after twenty years it was allowed to go down and the
buildings have been left in a state of decay. On another site, on Farm
river, E. C. Maltby manufactured wooden goods, such as buttons,
spoons, etc., but later successfully engaged in the process of manu-
facturing dessicated cocoanut goods. The latter works became exten-
sive, about forty persons being employed. This industry was re-
moved to Shelton, and the buildings are now occupied by the exten-
sive card printing and novelty business of D. S. Stevens, Jr., which
is one of the chief occupations in the town. Until September, 1890,
the works were owned by the Stevens Brothers (H. M. & D. S.), when
the former removed to Wallingford.
At Northford a modern creamery has become a recent and success-
ful industry. The milk of 300 cows is consumed.
On Farm river, at Bare Plain, the Rogers mills have been operated
the best part of two hundred years. Samuel A. Rogers was the last
of that family to own them, the proprietor since 1880 being Charles
Page. In the neighborhood of Branford village lumber mills were
run by Joshua Rose, Charles Todd, the Partridge family and
the Foote family. At the latter site Samuel Foote had a carding
mill, in which members of the Linsley family were also interested.
A small grist mill, by Samuel Foote, is now kept at that place. At
the next site below the milling interests were controlled in 1890 by
Alden H. Hill, who was largely engaged in getting out ship timber
for the builders at Fair Haven. For a short time Edward A. Lins-
ley had a small forge in the southwestern part of the town, where he
wrought axes of a good quality.
Bare Plain is a general name applied to the level tract of land a
little north of the southwest 'section of the town. When the whites
came there was but a scant growth of trees in that locality, hence the
name. Here was begun the first mercantile business in the town,
according to the account of Mr. Baldwin:
" The first and only store in those days for the northern farmers
was kept in the house now owned by Mr. Marquand, half way up the
hill, above James Linsley 's, at Bare Plain. There were several Frisbie
families living in that vicinity, and one of them kept the store."
At a later period, on the old New Haven road, Colonel Thaddeus
Harrison had a very popular country tavern; this is now the farm
house of his son, Jerome Harrison. In this section Doctor Increase
Harrison practiced medicine half a century ago, and Doctor Jacob
Linsley was located here at a later period.
80 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
In 1880 a chapel was built at Bare Plain, and in 1889 a post office was
opened near by, with the name of Totoket. A. J. Smith is the post-
master. A daily mail, by stage from New Haven, is supplied. Here
are also the card works of H. D. Bartholomew and A. J. Smith, and
several mechanic shops in addition to the foregoing, complete the
hamlet.
North Branford village was the next business point of the town.
It has a pleasant location, five miles from Branford village, and about
nine miles from New Haven. There are several dozen buildings, in-
cluding two stores, shops, a fine new school house and Congregational
and Episcopal houses of worship. The card works of C. W. Barker
the past seven years is a thriving industry.
This was formerly more of a business place than at present, the
" Totoket Store " having a large trade when Russell Clark occupied
it. Since 1882 Ralph Beers has been the occupant, and was the post-
master in 1890. Preceding him were, as postmasters, C. W. Barker,
Albert Piatt, Russell Clark and Jasper Monroe, the latter merchandis-
ing in the village about 1840. At the post office is kept a small pub-
lic library, established in 1889, which is controlled by the North Bran-
ford Library Association. Reverend Franklin Countryman is the gen-
eral manager.
Doctor Sheldon Beardsley lived here a number of years, following
his profession until his death. After a time Doctor Edward A. Ward
was located, and skillfully served the wants of the sick. Doctor Wel-
lington Campbell remained a few years; and Doctor H. O. Brown, who
removed in 1889, was the last located practitioner.
Public houses were formerly kept by Philo and Nathan Harrison.
Since 1852 there has been little demand for such accommodations.
Northford is near the north line of the town, on the west side of
the Totoket mountain, from which it is separated by Farm river. For
many years it was known by the Indian name Paug. There are an
Episcopal church and an attractive brown stone meeting house, be-
longing to the Congregational society; a good Masonic Lodge, several
factories, and about a dozen fine residences. The place has long been
known as one of the most thrifty of its size in the state, and is also
one of the most intelligent communities in the county. The removal
of several industries has diminished the population and relative influ-
ence of the place.
In 1827 Augustus Tyler was the postmaster of the Northford office,
and the income was $42.02. Malachi Cook next held the office at his
store, north of the churches, where it was kept in 1841 by Timothy
Bartholomew. William Evarts was an innkeeper, and also kept the
post office. Henry C. Hart was long in charge. Thomas A. Smith
came next, at the same stand, and since March, 1889, Henry N. Pardee
has been the postmaster. For many years it was a second-class presi-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 81
deritial office, being now in the third class. Several mails per day
are supplied from Northford station, distant two and a half miles.
Reuben Harrison had a store fifty years ago, one mile north of the
churches, where Lorenzo E. Harrison had a fruit distillery at a later
day. In the same locality Doctor Joseph Foote was a medical practi-
tioner many years. A Doctor Baldwin practiced later, but the past
two years the town has not had a resident physician.
Corinthian Lodge. No. 103, F. & A. M., was instituted at Northford
in 1868, with the following as charter members : John M. Page (first
master), Milo A. Todd, Thomas A. Smith, R. N. Augur, John H. Mans-
field, Edgar F. Eaton, Philo Williams, J. H. Bartholomew, F. C. Bar-
tholomew. Considering its limited jurisdiction, the Lodge has pros-
pered very much, and had, in 1890, 72 members, with T. F. Barnes,
master; E. F. Eaton, secretary; S. M. Foote, treasurer; J. A. Smith,
senior warden; and J. H. Baldwin, junior warden. The intermediate
past masters have been: L. Peet Tuttle, Henry N. Pardee, Guernsey
B. Smith, T. F. Barnes, A. L. Dayton, E. F. Eaton, Urban T. Harrison,
S. M. Foote and John P. Potter.
In 1870 the meetings of the Lodge were convened in Association
Hall, at Northford, built that year by a company organized for that
purpose. This was destroyed by fire in the summer of 1878, and many
of the Lodge records were also burned. The hall was rebuilt the same
year, and is still in use. It is a three-story edifice, the first being used
as a store, the second as a public hall, and in the third is the finely
furnished Masonic hall.
In this hall are held the meetings of Northford Grange, No. 80, P.
of H., which is well supported. Totoket Grange, No. 83, holds its
meetings in Totoket Hall. Both bodies are doing a good educational
work in their respective localities. Of the former Dwight M. Foote
was the master in 1890, and Charles Linsley of the latter.
Foxon Grange, No. 84, in the northern part of East Haven, also
draws upon North Branford for some of its membership. At this time
Charles W. Granniss was the master.
This part of Branford shared the interest of the old town in the
cause of education, and soon after the North Parish was established
provision was made for schools.
" Nov. 5, 1736 — Town vote to build a school house near Edward
Frisbie's on the country road.
" March 29, 1732— Gave 40 acres for school lands in No. B.
" 1734— Laid out 60 acres on farther Great Hill for school for
No. B.
" 1760 — Grant school to people of Bare Plain.
" 1760, May 30 — Grant to people of north of Great Hill money for
school."
In the Northford parish, too, arrangements were made for schools
soon after the machinery of the parish was gotten into operation.
6
82 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
"At first, and until 1752, the entire parish was comprised in a single
school district. A division was then effected, creating one district
north and one south of the meeting house. Three years after, in 1755,
a third district was organized, and still a fourth in 1769, these arrange-
ments all being made, and common school education supervised— not
by the town, as now, but by the Ecclesiastical Society."
A deep interest was taken in these primary schools, and although
there have not been any academies or schools of higher order to which
the youth of Northford might readily resort, the thirst for knowledge
was so keen that many acquired an education in colleges and profes-
sional schools elsewhere.
" Few parishes in the state, and perhaps none of equal population,
have given to the world so large a number of liberally educated men
— so goodlv a number of emigrant sons, who have served their gener-
ation in the varied fields of professional labor — as Northford, and of
these it is she speaks with something of the honest exultation of the
noble Roman mother, who pointed to her sons as they returned from
the public schools, saying, 'These are my jewels.' Of these sons, 31,
so far as I am informed, have been graduated at Yale College.
" The legal profession has been represented by four Northford
men, as follows; Noah Linsley, Douglas Fowler, George Hoadley and
Gustavus R. Elliott.
" Nineteen at least have borne, and for the most part honored, the
diplomas of the medical schools. I give their names without any at-
tention to their arrangement in chronological order: Doctors Malachi
Foote, William Foote, Salmon Frisbie, — - Auger, Stephen Todd,
Jehiel Hoadley, Augustus Williams, Joseph Foote, Lyman Cook, Har-
vey Elliot, William Baldwin, Chauncey Foote, Jared Linsley, Benjamin
F. Harrison, D. A. Tyler, Benjamin Fowler, Anson Foote, Elizur
Beach and John Linsley.
"Sixteen have entered the ministerial profession. Their names
are as follows : Reverends Medad Rogers, Lemuel Tyler, Jonathan
Maltby, Mr. Rose, L. Ives Hoadley, Isaac Maltby, Oliver D. Cook, Eli
Smith, Samuel Whitney, James H. Linsley, John Maltby, Erastus
Maltby, Benjamin S. J. Page, Harvey Linsley, L. S. Hough and Ste-
phen C. Loper.
"Thus 39 have represented the parish in the three leading profes-
sions. In this connection mention should be made of Reverend Al-
bert Barnes, author of ' Barnes' Notes,' etc., who, though not born here,
was of Northford parentage ; his father, Rufus Barnes, and mother,
Anne Frisbie, were natives, and lived here until their marriage, when
they removed to New York state. And also of the two female mission-
aries whose early homes were here— Mrs. Epaphras Chapman, mission-
ary among the Indians, and Mrs. Dwight Baldwin, at the Sandwich
Islands.
" Reverends Samuel Whitney and Eli Smith, already mentioned,
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 83
were also prominently engaged in missionary labor, the one at the
Sandwich Islands, the other in Syria."*
At North Branford village a very neat school house was completed
in the fall of 1SS9, and was first occupied December 30th, that year.
It has 56 sittings and cost $1,400. The character of school buildings
in other localities is also being improved.
Many learned men claim the old "North Parish" as their home or
birthplace. Miss Martha Russell, a native of Bare Plain, is an author-
ess whose works of fiction are read by many admirers of her talent.
The religious interests of the town embrace two Congregational
and two Episcopal churches and a Union chapel at Bare Plain. Con-
cerning the early religious history of the town, the Reverend Elijah
C. Baldwin said, in his " Annals of Branford ":
" For a number of years the ' North Farmers,' as they were called,
came to meeting at Branford, and were under the ministrations of
Reverend Samuel Russell. As there were but few roads, and those
poor, and the people had no carriages, the journey was slow and
difficult. It was made on foot or on horseback, along the poorly-
made paths, through forests and swamps. But the word of God
and the privileges of the sanctuary were prized in those days. The
journey took them all day. The whole family went, carrying their
wood, also weapons for defense, hence .Sabbath day houses were
built to accommodate both family and horses. Having no fires in
the meeting house, they went to these houses for warmth and bodily
refreshment. In 1706 the town granted to Stephen Foote, Daniel
Barker, John Frisbie and Edward Frisbie, ' North Farmers,' the
privilege of building Sabbath day houses on the common at Bran-
ford Village.
"Mr. Russell and others also occasionally preached for them, in
their own locality, worship being held in private houses. But this
only had the effect of strengthening the desire to have a minister
of their own, at 'North Farms,' and for this privilege they peti-
tioned. Naturally the people of the lower part of the town were
reluctant to have so many valuable families separated from them.
Not getting consent from the town they petitioned the general as-
sembly in May, 1717, for relief. (Col. Rec.) This pressure led the
town, the same year, to vote liberty to the people at Sibbie's Hill to
have a minister for four months. Sibbie's Hill is just north of the
present center of North Branford. This name comes from an Indian
sachem, who once lived there near a spring of water which bears the
same name. Daniel Page, afterward Deacon, one of the first settlers,
lived near the summit of this hill. It is said that the services of the
extra minister were held at his house. All expenses were paid from
the town treasury, and collected from a tax on the property of the
whole town.
*Reverend A. C. Pierce.
84 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
" Thus encouraged, they renewed their efforts for a new society in
1717, and the town consented so far that it appointed a committee on
proposed bounds. They ran the line from ' Rose's meadow,' ' Rattle-
snake rocks,' 'Sawmill,' ' Long Hill,' and ' Cedar Swamp.' All were
not quite satisfied with the first bounds, so they were changed a little.
The North farmers had their minister longer and longer each year
until on September 27th, 1722, they ask to have him permanently set-
tled. The town therefore voted to set up another society, purchase
minister's lot, build a meeting house and a house for the minister. In
1722, October 8th, the proprietors gave 200 acres for parsonage lands
at Jod's lot on the east side of Great hill for the new society.
" December 30th, 1723 — The North Farmers came with their request
again and asked for a change of bounds. It was voted that if they
would sit down contented with their former bounds then the town
would go equal shares with them in building and perfecting a meet-
ing house within those same bounds, of forty feet in length and thirty
feet in breadth. The petitioners to which this answer was given were
Jonathan Butler, David Barker, John Harrison, Benjamin Linsley and
Samuel Harrison.
" In May 12th, 1724, the town voted 'that the whole town would,
as one m respect that they are numerous, so that one meeting house
is not sufficient to contain them, build another, have another minister,
and to maintain each of them by one rate.' On June 23d of the same
year, they vote to go on with the building at ' North Farms,' the build-
ing to be 45 by 35 feet. December 28th in the same year they recon-
sidered the vote about the meeting house and minister, changing:
bounds and location. Three sites were debated. It was finally de-
cided to locate it ' on the knoll on the west side of the river, at the
place near Samuel Harrison's.' This spot was a few feet south of the
present meeting house in North Branford. The town vote £200 for
the house if the North Farmers will accept the terms. But all is not
quite satisfactory. Therefore, on August 5th, 1725, the town appointed
a joint committee to arrange the matter. By December 14th, 1725,
they have come to an agreement, and they appointed collectors for
each society. They also arrange for the payment of the new meeting
house bills. Isaac Foote, Lieutenant Rose, John Harrison, Daniel
Barker and Josiah Rogers were the committee appointed to direct the
building of the meeting house. It was not finished until 1732.
"Tradition says that Reverend Samuel Russell went up and offered
prayer at the erection of the frame of the new meetinghouse. At the
raising an accident occurred, which might have been very serious.
One of the heavy upright beams fell from its position into the midst,
as it seemed, of the people. Beams used then were very heavy. But,
by a kind providence interposing, no one was struck or injured by the
falling timber.
" That meeting house had its location very near the present newer
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 85
structure at the center. It stood and was used until after the present
meeting house was finished. It is remembered by some persons now
living. Its windows were small and diamond-shaped and numerous.
It had doors on the east, west and south sides. The pulpit was high
and shut-in galleries went around three sides, and they were quite
high. The floor of the house was a step below the sills as you entered.
Box pews for families covered the floor. Above the pulpit was hung
a square, roof-like structure for a sounding board. In later years the
bats had nests in this and occupied them with impunity, because of
many years accumulation of dust and filth, that seemed out of the
reach of all cleaning efforts that were made in those days. It was no
uncommon thing for a bat to get loose during a service and go scoot-
ing through the house, to the manifest discomfort of many in the con-
gregation. A number of the ' North farmers ' lived near the Walling-
ford line, but they came down to 'Sibbie's hill' to attend worship for a
number of years."
In the latter part of 1725 the North Ecclesiastical Society was or-
ganized, and the town was amicably divided into two parishes. The
old church at Branford was also divided, dismissing members to form
the North Branford church. In 1726 the ecclesiastical societies began
to keep their records separate from those of the town.
" March 3d, 1726 — The town granted the privilege of a burying
yard to the North society. The oldest stone in it records the death of
Isaac Bartholomew in 1727. He was the second, if not the first, regu-
lar physician the town had."
The North Society also settled its first minister in 1726 — Reverend
Jonathan Merick, who was born in Springfield, Mass., in 1700, and who
had graduated at Yale in 1725. He was ordained the following year,
his only charge being the North Branford church, which was organ-
ized about the time of his settlement, or in 1727. The town helped
him to build a house on the farm which it had furnished him, and
which until a few years ago was in the possession of his descendants,
who at one time were numerous in this locality. Mr. Merick had a
tall, commanding stature, and wore one of the large, old-fashioned
wigs. His ministry closed in 1769, in consequence of a paralysis,
which laid him aside from his duties. His last public act was to pre-
side as moderator of a church meeting, held February 23d, 1769, to
appoint a day for the ordination of his successor, Reverend Samuel
Eells. His signature appears, then, for the last time, on the church
records. His grave, in the little enclosure just east of the North Bran-
ford meeting house, has a stone, with this inscription :
In Memory of
Rev. Jonathan Merick,
Consort to Mrs. Jerusha Merick, and first Pastor of the 2d Church of Christ in
Branford, who departed this life June 2d, Anno Domini, 1772, ,-Etatis Sua 72; in
Officio Ministerei 43. Remember them who have spoken unto you the word of
God. Our Fathers, where are they? and the Prophets, do they live forever?
86 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The successor of Mr. Merick, Samuel Eells, who became the second
pastor, was born in Middletown in 1745, and here ordained in 1769.
The parish voted him a settlement of £200 and the material for build-
ing a house. He was a man of vivacious temperament, and was much
esteemed by his people. In 1777 he preached a sermon on the need of
prompt response to the demand of the governor for troops, and plac-
ing himself at the head of the North Branford company, marched to
the defense of the country. His commission as chaplain was dated
January 14th, 1777, and was signed by Jonathan Trumbull. Both the
commission and the muster roll* are deposited in Yale library. Mr.
Eells died April 3d, 1808, and was buried at North Branford. He
added 104 members to the church, being the largest number added by
any one minister.
At the beginning of his pastorate in 1769, he prepared the first list
of the members of the church, numbering at that time 70. These be-
longed to the following families: Barnes, Buel, Barker, Baldwin, But-
ler, Collins, Foote, Ford, Harrison, Hubbard, Hoadley, Linsley, Nor-
ton, Merrick, Page, Palmer, Russell, Rogers, Rose, Scarritt, Tyler,
Whedon and Wolcott. The names of many of these families are per-
petuated in the present membership.
In the early history of the church the mode of worship was differ-
ent from the present. Jonathan Butler was elected as the first singing
clerk. Abiel Linsley and Abraham Whedon were next appointed to
"set the Psalms," and in 1735 it was voted to give the clerk "liberty to
tune the Psalms which way he pleaseth."
In 1770 William Whedon and Ithiel Russell were appointed chor-
isters, and in 1780 the society maintained a singing school. In 1792
the "Musical Society of North Branford" had a flourishing existence.
"In 1799 the society paid its singers $10 per year, and they purchased
books at their own expense, and trained themselves in singing."
In 17S9 the pews of the church were "dignified," but the practice
was soon abandoned.
The third minister of the church was Charles Atwater, who was
born in New Haven in 1786. In March, 1809, he was ordained to this
pastorate by President Dwight, of Yale, and served until his death,
February 21st, 1825. He was acceptable and useful, and his memory
is still cherished. He is also buried in the North Branford cemetery.
His home in the town was the present parsonage, which was remod-
elled in 1859. The three sons of Mr. Atwater, George and Doctor
David F., of Springfield, and James, of Brooklyn, have become promi-
nent and useful men.
Reverend Judson A. Root became the fourth pastor, in the old
meeting house, October 15th, 1828. In his pastorate this house was
taken down, the society voting, February 28th, 1831, to remove it, after
having been in use more than a hundred years. The new meeting
* See copy, in this chapter.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 87
house was begun May 26th, 1830, six feet north of the old house, and
was dedicated in April, 1831. In the winter of 1870-1, a pulpit recess
was added and the house was thoroughly renovated. It has since been
kept in good repair. The church property was further improved in
the fall of 1886, when a neat frame Gothic chapel and parish house was
built, near the main edifice. Its cost was about $2,000, which was
largely the gift of Mrs. George Rose and Mrs. Lucretia Plant, assisted
by others of the parish. This house was dedicated January 16th, 1887.
Mr. Root's pastorate continued until 1834, and 58 members were
added to the church.
Reverend Henry B. Camp became the pastor in 1835, but was com-
pelled by sickness to leave in 1836.
On the 17th of January, 1838, Reverend John D. Baldwin became
the sixth pastor, and remained until 1844. In that period 60 members
were added to the church, 25 joining in September, 1840. Mr. Bald-
win was a man of marked ability, and after his removal to Worcester,
Mass., he became a distinguished author.
The subsequent pastors of the church were: Reverend George I.
Wood, 1844-50; Whitman Peck, 1851-5; George I. Wood, 1855-9; Will-
iam B. Curtis, 1860-7; E. J. Clark, 1867-77; John W. Beach, 1878-9; D.
N. Prentice, 1880-2. Since May, 1882, the acting pastor has been Rev-
erend Franklin Countryman.
The ministers raised up in this parish have been the following:
Reverends Henry Gilbert, Ammi Linsley, Alonzo Loper, Fosdick Har-
rison, Jared Harrison, Marcus Harrison, Roger Harrison, Lewis Mun-
ger, Edward Strong Peck, Ammi Rogers, David Rose, Levi Rose.
The deacon elected when the church was formed was Benjamin
Barnes, who lived on the main road across Bare Plain. Prior to 1734
Daniel Page, who lived on "Sibbie's" hill, was elected another dea-
con. In 1743 Israel Baldwin, who had removed to this parish from
Milford, was appointed the third deacon. In 1765 he was found dead
on " Great hill," a sudden sickness overtaking him, after he had gone
t'o that place on business. The subsequeut deacons were elected in
about the years set opposite their names: Ithiel Russell, 1754; Barna-
bas Mulford, 1769; Ebenezer Russell, 1772; Aaron Baldwin, 1778:
Israel Baldwin, 1798; Daniel Russell, 1808; Daniel Whedon, 1822
Sidney Alden, 1822; Thomas Plant, 1838; Samuel F. Russell. 1846
Luther Chidsey, 1846; Timothy R. Palmer, 1870; Charles Page, 1870
George C. Linsley, 1883. The last two served in 1S90. At this time
the parish had 90 members, belonging to 85 families. The Sabbath
school had 150 members.
The following account of the Northford Congregational Church
was compiled from a historical discourse by Reverend A. C. Pierce,
October 8th, 1876.
For about 40 years the inhabitants in the extreme northern part
of the old town of Branford worshipped at places remote from their
88 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
homes, for a long time at what is now North Branford village. The
distance was great and the facilities of travel few, but these Sab-
bath day journeys were made without much relief until 1734, when
the general court of Connecticut, upon the petition of Peter Tyler,
Samuel Harrington, Bezaleel Tyler and others living in the north-
erly part of the " North Parish," ordered "That said memorialists
shall be allowed liberty to have some Orthodox Minister preach the
gospel to them during the months of December, January, February
and March annually, and during said time they shall be free from pay-
ing church rates to said North Parish."
The remaining months of the year the inhabitants of this section
attended the meetings of Reverend Jonathan Merick, held at the
" Center," or North Branford village, continuing that arrangement
eleven years longer, when the third ecclesiastical society in the town
of Branford was formed, to include these " Northerly inhabitants " of
the Second or North Society. Their meeting for parish organization
was held June 24th, 1745, at the house of Benjamin Hand. Samuel
Harrington moderated, and Josiah Rogers served as clerk. They then
" agreed by a major vote that the name of the place shall be called
Salem." This title, so significant of the amicable feeling which at-
tended the organization of the parish, was set aside in December, 1751,
when the name of " Northford " first appears in its stead in the parish
records. It is not plain what induced the change, as there does not
appear to have been a local circumstance to warrant the taking of such
an " incongruous name."
" At the commencement of their existence as a distinct religious
community, public worship, it would seem, was held in a private dwell-
ing at first, and probably for the entire period prior to the completion
of the first meeting house, or rather until the building was so far ad-
vanced as to allow worship within its walls, at the residence of Mr.
Isaac Ingraham."
" In June or July of 1746, one year from the establishment of pub-
lic worship, application was made to the general court for the appoint-
ment of commissioners to ' locate a meeting house,' a measure adopted ,
as we may suppose, on account of some diversity of views as to where
the edifice should stand, or to avoid subsequent divisions, such as are
so likely to grow out of locating public buildings.
" In compliance with the desire of the petitioners, the general court
voted permission to build a house of worship, and appointed ' Capt.
John Hubbard, Capt. Jonathan Allen and Mr. John Hitchcock, all of
New Haven, to locate said house,' which committee in due time made
its report to the court, and thereupon it was voted, that 'Said house of
worship be erected in the highway, on the west side of the path, twenty-
rods north of Samuel Bartholomew's house, the sills to enclose a wal-
nut staddle thereon standing, with a heap of stones around it.' In the
following spring a building committee was appointed, and the work
was undertaken.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 89
" The edifice erected was at first without a steeple, which append-
age was added in 1796 — 49 years after the body of the house was built
— and a bell, the same now in use, was placed upon its deck. Even
the lower part of the house was not finished until 1752, and the gal-
leries not until 1760."
The old meeting house was used for the last time April 25th, 1847.
Most of that time it was simply a barn-like structure, and there were
no heating appointments except foot stoves. Yet here the inhabitants
attended in goodly numbers, and within its rude walls several genera-
tions were edified in spiritual things. Bare and uninviting as it was,
no doubt to them the old house was not altogether an unlovely object,
and had become endeared to them by many pleasant associations.
In 1846 the present stone edifice was begun, and was dedicated
April 28th, 1847, Doctor Leonard Bacon preaching the dedicatory ser-
mon. Its appearance indicated a fine structure, but unfortunately the
walls of the tower were so poorly built that it was found necessary in
1863 to take them down and rebuild them, the work involving an out-
lay of $800. In 1873 the walls of the church gave way, and were re-
built at an expense of $3,400, but the building now presents a sub-
stantial appearance. In more recent years it has been embellished
and a fine parsonage has been provided nearer the church edifice than
the old parish home, which has become the rectory of the Episcopal
parish.
Five years after the organization of the " Salem " parish the church
was formally constituted, June 13th, 1750, of the following male mem-
bers: Captain Aaron Cook, Deacon Samuel Harrington, Samuel Barnes,
John Baldwin, 2d, Ensign Josiah Rogers, Jr., Joseph Linsley, Isaac
Foote, Jr., Stephen Todd, Abel Munson, Merriman Munson, Abraham
Bartholomew, Peter Tyler, Timothy Rose, Daniel Maltbie, John Tain-
tor, Samuel Goodsell, Joseph Elwell and Enos Barnes.
On the first Sabbath in July following 23 females, most of them
relatives of the foregoing, were added to the roll. Most of them had
been dismissed from neighboring churches to form the new body.
The membership increased, but the parish support was diminished in
1763, by the formation in this territory of St. Andrew's Episcopal
parish, whose existence has been continued until the present time.
In 1801 there was here organized another body, called the " Enrolled
Church," which was composed of members of the Northford church,
who had become disaffected with Mr. Noyes' preaching. They enrolled
themselves as dissenters from the views and feelings of the old church,
and organized themselves as a new body, with the above name. A
house of worship was built in 1805, in which services were statedly
maintained, but no minister was ever installed. Among the ministers
who preached for the " Enrolled Church " were Reverends Hunting-
ton, Barrows, Claudius Herrick, Eliphalet B.Coleman and Jeremiah At-
water, D. D. The feeling which caused the separation continued until
90 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
1833, when, through the mediation of the association, the differences
were adjusted and the matter was healed, so that most of the members
of the " Enrolled Church " returned to the mother society, and the
new body disbanded.
The changes in the industrial life of this section caused the re-
moval of many of the inhabitants and a corresponding decrease of the
membership of the church. In 1890 the families in the parish num-
bered 58, and there were 23 male and 53 female members.
Soon after the parish was formed an effort was made to secure a
settled minister, but a number of calls were extended before the invi-
tation was honored. Finally Warham Williams consented to come,
and the 13th of June, 1750, was appointed as the day for his ordination.
It was looked forward to with no little interest by the people of the
parish and such a large attendance was anticipated that it was voted
by the Society " That Isaac Ingraham. Paul Tyler, and John Thomp-
son, shall be a committee to take care of the meeting house doors or-
dination day, to keep folks out."
" Mr. Williams was of Puritan ancestry, his great-grandparents on
both sides having come from England at the time of the Puritan exo-
dus. He was grandson of Reverend John Williams, who was carried
captive by the Indians from Deerfield to Canada, in 1704, and was son
of Reverend Stephen Williams, D.D., of Long Meadow, Mass. He was
graduated at Yale College, in which institution he was shortly after
elected tutor, and in the corporation of which he served as Felfow
from the time of his early ministry to the time of his death."
" His ministry continued through a period of 38 years, and was one
of marked success, there having been added to the church during his
pastorate, including the 23 original members who were constituted a
church on the day of his ordination, 256 individuals, an average of
something more than six each year through his entire ministry. He
fell asleep April 4th, 1788, in the 63d year of his life, and ' his sepulchre
is with you unto this day.'
" After the decease of Mr. Williams the pulpit was variously sup-
plied for a period of two years.
" In March, 1790, the labors of Reverend Matthew Noyes began.
In May, proposals were made for his permanent establishment in the
pastorate; the proposal for his support being, that he should receive
£200 settlement, and £90 annually as his salary.
" In the following August his ordination took place, the sermon
being preached by Reverend Dr. Goodrich, of Durham. He was a
native of Lyme, Conn., a descendant, as was his predecessor, of Puri-
tan ancestry, being in the fifth generation from, Reverend James
Noyes, who came from England in 1634 and settled in Newbury,
Mass.
' Mr. Noyes' academic education he received at Yale College (of
which he also was afterward a member of the corporation), and his
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 91'
theological studies were pursued under the instructions of Rever-
end Dr. Whitney, of Brooklyn, Conn. His pastorate • here continued
through a period of 44 years, and under his ministry there was an in-
gathering to the church of 201 individuals. His labors as pastor were
suspended in 1833; his pastoral relations were dissolved in 1835, and
in 1837, on the 25th of September, he finished his course, departing
this life in the 76th year of his age."*
" He was a methodical and vigorous thinker and his mind was re-
markably ready in the phraseology of the Scriptures." These qualities
endeared him to the community and he was one of the most honored
clergymen of his times.
On the 1st of December, 1835, Reverend William J. Boardman was
installed as the third pastor, and served the church eleven years. He
was ordained to the ministry at North Haven September 20th, 1820,
and spent his entire ministerial life with these two churches. He died
at Northford October 1st, 1849.
The pulpit was now supplied for about six years by (among others) .
Reverend Henry Steel Clark, D.D., Reverend Edward Root and Rev-
erend Charles H. Bullard, but June 8th, 1853, Reverend A. C. Pierce
became the pastor and served until July 1st, 1866. His ministry was
pleasant and successful, 72 persons being added to the membership of
the church.
For about two years Reverend A. C. Hurd was the stated supply,
when'in December, 1869, Reverend George DeF. Folsom became the
acting pastor, continuing until his resignation, April 4th, 1879. He
was followed by the Reverend E. A. Winslow, and in November, 1880,
Reverend Theodore A. Leete became the pastor, continuing until May
6th, 1S83. Henry S. Snyder was here next ordained, October 28th,
1885, to a pastorate which ended May 6th, 1S88. Since August 5th,
1888, the acting pastor has been Reverend J. Lee Nott.
In passing from the ministry it is natural to speak of the deacons
as office-bearers in the church. They have served in the following
order: Deacons Josiah Rogers and Merriman Munson, chosen when
the church was organized; Deacons Benjamin Maltby and Phineas
Baldwin, chosen April 2d, 1778; Deacon Benjamin Maltby, Jr., chosen
December 1st, 1791; Solomon Fowler, chosen December 3d, 1801;.
Stephen Maltby, chosen May 31st, 1804; Munson Linsley, chosen Feb-
ruary 2d, 1809; Ralph Linsley, February 2d, 1826; Thomas Smith,
February 2d, 1832; Charles Foote, October 3d, 1844; and William
Maltby, March 4th, 1863, the latter being this office-bearer in 1890.
A permanent fund for the benefit of the church has been estab-
lished by the generosity of friends. Among such benefactors mention
should be made of Deacon Samuel Harrington, who, in 1754, gave .£20 â–
to the society for their permanent use in the maintenance of a dissent-
ing minister; of John Taintor, who bequeathed a farm, valued at about
* Reverend Pierce.
92 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
$2,500, for a like purpose; of Ebenezer H. Fowler, who left for the
society real estate and personal property to the value of some $4,000;
also, of Doctor Jared Linsley, of New York city, who, on more than
one occasion, particularly when the parsonage was purchased, mani-
fested his love for his native parish and his generosity of spirit in
methods more expressive than mere kind words and good wishes; of
Mrs. Ruth Maltby, who bequeathed, at her decease, the sum of $100;
and of Mr. Julius Maltby, who, at his decease, donated to the society
$2,000.
Zion Church (Protestant Episcopal) is located at North Branford
village. A preliminary meeting to consider the propriety of organiz-
ing such a body was held at the house of Chauncey Linsley, March 12th,
1812, when, as a result of the deliberations, the permission of the bishop
was asked to proceed. He granted the desired privilege and, April 2d,
1812, the following were constituted the Episcopal Society of North
Branford : Augustus Baldwin, Jesse Linsley, Jonathan Foote, Jacob
Barker, Sherman Bunnell, Jacob M. Tyler, Nicholas O. Thompson and
Jonathan B. Potter.
The three first named were elected as vestrymen. Other members
from the Harrison, Monroe and Rose families were added, and in 1813
Reverend Elijah G. Plumb was secured for one-eighth of his time as
the first minister. He also preached at Northford, Branford and
at East Haven. Subsequently a similar arrangement was continued
with other churches in Branford and Guilford, the Reverend David
Baldwin being the well-beloved rector for many years, in connection
with the church at Guilford. In 1890 the parishes of North Guilford
and North Branford were served by one rector — Reverend W. H.
Dean, residing in the former parish.
The North Branford parish reported 20 families and 25 registered
•communicants. About $500 was raised in the parish for church pur-
poses each year.
In 1818 the parish voted to build a church 32 by 42 feet, and ap-
pointed as a building committee David Rose, Samuel Baldwin, Jr.,
Chauncey Linsley, Augustus Baldwin, with Jesse Linsley as treasurer.
Not being able to obtain public land upon which to build, a lot was
bought, in the village of North Branford, of Jairus Harrison, a part of
which was set aside for burial purposes. This was laid out into lots,
which were divided, in 1829, among the Baldwin, Rose, Linsley, But-
ler and other families.
In 1827 the church was painted, and in 1840 was more thoroughly
finished and repaired by Charles Todd, Joshua Rose and Jesse Lins-
ley. In the fall of 1863 it was enlarged and much beautified, and May
30th, 1864, the church was duly consecrated by Bishop John Williams.
Stained glass windows were placed in the church in 1886, and it is now
a comfortable place of worship, with 150 sittings.
Among the wardens of the church have been Jonathan Foote, Jesse
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. . 93
Linsley, Jonathan Rose, Chauncey Linsley, Charles Todd, Joshua Rose,
Martin C. Bishop, John H. Harrison, Jr., Jesse L. Harrison and George
W. Dudley. The vestrymen in 1890 were Albert Todd, Samuel L.
Hale and E. M. Fields. Martin C. Bishop was the superintendent of
the Sunday school, which had several dozen members.
St. Andrew's Church (Protestant Episcopal) at Northford was or-
ganized much earlier. The agitation and discussion of theological
subjects, after the time of the "great awakening," caused a number of
families to renounce Congregationalism, as defined by the "Saybrook
Platform," and some of these were later led to associate themselves
with churchmen in an Episcopal society which was formed in 1763.
The original members of this society were: Paul Tyler, Ichabod Foote,
Joseph Darien, Samuel Maltby, David Rogers, Jonah Todd, Phineas
Beach, Joseph Finch and John Johnson.
Some of these had been connected with the Episcopal church at
Guilford, and no doubt occasionally attended worship at that place,
even though the distance was so remote. It was the nearest point
where the worship of the Church of England was at that time main-
tained.
Soon after this Episcopal society was formed steps were taken to
build a church at Northford. A lot of land was secured from James
Howd, who gave a deed for the same, December 31st, 1763. The fol-
lowing year the church was completed for use, and in a repaired form
served its intended purpose until 1845, when the house at present oc-
cupied was built. It has sittings for 200 persons, and repairs in recent
years have made it inviting and comfortable.
Opposite the church edifice is the old but substantial rectory of the
parish. A part of the house was built about 1750, as the residence of
Reverend Warham Williams, of the Congregational society, whose
parsonage it became. After the death of Mr. Williams, in April, 1788,
the house was occupied by the well-to-do Reverend Matthew Noyes,
until his death, September 25th, 1839. At this time he was reputed to
be one of the wealthiest clergymen in the state,* and the house con-
tained many comforts not found in ordinary homes. In August, 1866,
through the efforts of Rector Sheldon Davis, the house became the
property of the parish, and was much repaired. In his ministry of
six years the church was also thoroughly renovated.
For many years the church had the ministerial service of rectors
of near-by parishes, Mr. Davis being settled here in the summer of
1866. In 1872 Reverend D. H. Short, D.D., became the rector, and so
served four years and five months. He was succeeded by Reverend
John Coleman, who resigned after two years, in September, 1879.
Reverend Clayton Eddy was the minister in 1880, and July 3d, 1881,
Reverend George Buck began a rectorship, which was terminated De-
cember, 1886. Since the fall of 1889, the rector has been Reverend
Warren H. Robberts.
* J. W. Barber, Hist. Col., p, 240.
94 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The parish has 40 families, 200 individuals and 50 registered com-
municants. The wardens in 1890 were Douglas Williams and E. A. C.
Potwine.
Bare Plain Union Chapel is a frame building, seating 100 people,
and was erected in 1880 at a cost of $1,300. It is controlled by an
association, incorporated March 3d, 1880; and in 1890 the trustees
were: Isaac B. Linsley, Charles E. Linsley arid Herbert O. Page.
While all persuasions can obtain consent to use this house, which is
intended for the accommodation of the people of the western part
of the town, it is used mainly by the Congregationalists of the North
Branford church. Since 1886 Reverend Charles Page has held regu-
lar services at this place. In 1885 he became a licentiate of the
New Haven East Association.
Near this chapel is the Bare Plain Cemetery, which was opened
in the spring of 1860, on the land of Jerome Harrison. The orig-
inal area was half an acre. In 1877 it was enlarged by the addition
of an acre, purchased by the Bare Plain Cemetery Association, which
now controls the ground. The person first interred was Miss Amoret
Harrison, in April, 1860. Since that time it has been much used.
The cemetery at Northford embraces several acres, and is kept
in fair order. It contains many monuments, some being costly and
of fine design, which commemorate the memories and virtues of the
Williams, Tyler, Maltby, Hoadley, Foote, Smith, Augur, Linsley,
Cook, Todd, Elliott, Harrison and Bartholomew families. A head-
stone indicates that Captain Stephen Smith died June 22d, 1851, aged
100 years and 8 weeks.
Dr. Jared Linsley
Born in Northford
Oct. 30, 1803,
Died
July 12, 1887.
For over fifty years he was a practicing physician in New York city.
Here are also the graves of several of the former pastors of the
Northford society.
At North Branford village are small places of interment in con-
nection with both of the churches at that place.
Roster of Captain Eells' Company in the Revolution: Captain,
Samuel Eells; first lieutenant, Samuel Baldwin; second lieutenant,
Jacob Bunnell; sergeants, Ebenezer Linsley, Isaac Foot, John White,
Lud. Munson, Abraham Foot; corporals, Uriah Collins, Samuel Har-
rison, Samuel Brown, Jacob Page; musicians, John Bunnell, Joseph
Whedon, Moses Baldwin; privates, Samuel Augustus Barker, Ambrose
Baldwin, James Barker, Benjamin Bartholomew, Daniel Baldwin,
Jairus Bunnell, Phineas Baldwin, Jacob Barker, Gideon Bartholomew,
Jonathan Byington, Titus Cook, Stephen Cook, Hooker Frisbie, Isaac
Frisbie, Samuel Ford, Gideon Goodrich, Daniel Hoadley, Ralph Hoad-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 95
ley, Jairus Harrison, Rufus Harrison, Isaac Hanford, Benjamin Harri-
son, Reuben Johnson, John Linsley, Jonathan Munson, James Pier-
pont, Samuel Peck, John Potter, Solomon Rose, Jonathan Russell,
Ebenezer Rogers, Joseph Smith, Dan Smith, Othniel Stent, Ebenezer
Truesdell, Solomon Talmadge, Asa Todd, Jonathan Tyler, Medad
Taintor.
Later in the war the town quickly responded and some of its citi-
zens were at New Haven to repel the British invasion July 5th, 1779.
" John Baldwin was shot by the enemy and left dead upon the field."
In the early part of the revolution Colonel William Douglas, who
lived on the farm now occupied by Douglas Williams, a descendant,
was in command of a regiment of Connecticut troops. " He contracted
consumption, as a consequence of exposure, and died before the war
was concluded." His memory is still cherished in the town.
The Soldiers' Monument at North Branford is the first monument
in the United States erected to the memory of the defenders of the
Union in the war of the rebellion. The movement to build it was be-
gun soon after the declaration of peace, in 1865, and a committee was
appointed to raise funds for that object. This consisted of Russell
Clark, Jonathan Foote and Henry Rogers, the latter being at that time
located at Branford village as an attorney. About $2,000 was secured
and the building of the monument was begun, of Stony Creek granite.
The last piece was swung into place the following year and on the 12th
of April, 1866, the monument was dedicated, an oration being pro-
nounced by General E. M. Lee. The monument stands on North
Branford Village green, west of the meeting house, and makes a pile
about 20 feet high. It consists of a massive base, die, semi-base and
shaft. The inscriptions are — on the shaft:
1865.
On the die:
Our Soldiers:
James H. Scranton.
J. Henry Palmer.
Walter A. Stone.
Albert F. Wheaton.
Josiah Johnson.
John F. Robinson.
Dayton R. Scranton.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Charles E. Ailing, born in Hamden, Conn., in 1846, is a son of Ezra
and. Emily (Bassett) Ailing, and grandson of Merritt Ailing. Mr. Ai-
ling is a farmer in Northford, where he has lived for several years.
He is one of the selectmen of North Branford. He married Jennette,
daughter of Charles D. and Mary (Linsley) Maltby, granddaughter of
Samuel, and great-granddaughter of Benjamin Maltby. They have
.two children: Morris E. and Mary M.
96 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Reuben Neros Augur, one of the largest farmers of Northford,
was born September 27th, 1S22, on a homestead in the southern part
of that society, still owned by members of his family. He was a son
of Joel and grandson of John Augur, one of the early prominent set-
tlers of that part of the county. His father died July 5th, 1873, aged
more than 83 years. He had been twice married and reared five chil-
dren. His first wife was Abigail Barnes, by whom he had this son,
Reuben N., and three daughters, viz.: Abigail Angeline, married John
Allen, of Wallingford; Phcebe Eliza, married Henry Loper, of Guil-
ford, now resides in New Haven; and Correlia, married Thelos Todd,
of Northford. The second wife of Joel Augur was Mrs. Hannah
Tripp, by whom he had one son, John P. Augur, who deceased in
North Branford.
Reuben N. Augur left his father's farm when he was sixteen years
of age, with a limited common school education, to learn the butcher's
trade in New Haven. He followed that occupation until 1850, when
he returned to Northford, where he has since resided, and has been
very successfully engaged as a farmer and cattle and horse dealer.
He owns 450 acres of highly improved land, and the surroundings
bear evidence of thrifty management. Mr. Augur is a very active,
industrious man, possesses good judgment and dilligently applies him-
self to his chosen occupation. In his relations to the community he
is a good, useful citizen, warmly favoring such measures as will pro-
mote the welfare of his native town. He is a democrat, and no office
seeker, but represented North Branford in the state legislature in 1859.
As a member of the Episcopal society of Northford, he is a most
liberal supporter of the work of that church, and his charity in other
causes is unstinted. He is also an honored member of Corinthian
Lodge, No. 103, F. & A. M., of Northford, and ranks as one of the
leading men of that community.
Reuben N. Augur was married November 26th, 1846, to Esther E.
Todd, who died October 23d, 1849, aged 23 years, and leaving one son,
Elbert Reuben, born October 5th, 1847, who died July 22d, 1879, at
Middletown, Conn. For his second wife Mr. Augur married a sister
of the foregoing, Maria C. Todd, October 28th, 1850, who died Janu-
ary 3d, 1873, at the age of 40 years. By this union there were three
children:
1. Robert Duane, born November 24th, 1851, who died August 23d,
1883, in the society of Northford. He left surviving his widow, Mar-
garet Evans.
2. Ella Maria, born April 27th, 1854, married Henry M. Stevens, of
Northford, and now resides in Wallingford.
3. Watson Davis, born May 1st, 1856, who married Agnes Gertrude
Stevens, of Northford, and is now a citizen of Middletown.
Mr. Augur was married to his third and present wife, Mrs. Margaret
E. Hall, December 26th, 1876. She was a daughter of Daniel Barnes,
/ 7
Y \ t " ( ( 4-LA
1
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 97
of North Haven, and widow of James T. Hall, of the same town. By
her former marriage she had one son, Frank E. Hall, born October
ISth, 1856, who is now a resident of New York city.
Clarence W. Barker, born in 1856, is a son of Eliphalet and Martha
(McCoy) Barker, and grandson of Chandler Barker. In 1879 Mr. Bar-
ker began a card printing business in Branford, and in 1883 he moved
the business to its present place at North Branford. Since 1885 he has
had a novelty and toy department. He married Minnie, daughter of
Henry D. and Sarah (Talmadge) Bartholomew. They have four chil-
dren: Florence E., Clarence D., Fred W. and Bertram L.
Harrison Barker, born in 1837, is the only son of Elon and Anice
(Harrison) Barker, and grandson of Joel, whose father, Jacob, was a
son of Daniel, whose father, Daniel Barker, was one of the first set-
tlers in North Branford. Air. Barker has two sisters — Caroline and
Emily. He is a farmer on the farm where his father resided up to
the time of his death, in 1883.
Henry D. Bartholomew, born in 1832, is a son of Samuel and Nancy
G. ( Wolcott) Bartholomew, and grandson of Timothy Bartholomew.
Mr. Bartholomew married Sarah, daughter of Levi and Marietta (Foote)
Talmadge, granddaughter of Enos, whose father was Solomon Tal-
madge. They have two children: Bertie L. and Minnie G. (Mrs. C.W.
Barker).
Isaac H. Bartholomew is a brother of Francis C. Bartholomew, men-
tioned in Wallingford, with whom he was engaged in manufacturing
here for a number of years prior to 1872. Mr. Bartholomew married
Delia, daughter of Horace Fowler. They have two sons: Edward F.
and George W. They lost four children : Emma, Hattie, Mary and
Willie.
Sedley D. Bartlett, born in 1S48 in North Madison, Conn., is a son
of David and Mariette (Stevens) Bartlett. He is a painter and paper
hanger by trade. He came to North Branford in 1878, and since 1882
has kept a store here. He married Mary E., daughter of E. Washing-
ton Dudley.
Ralph Beers, born in 1843, is the only son of Frederick and Amelia
(Palmer) Beers, grandson of Samuel, and great-grandson of Pitman,
whose father was Wheeler Beers. Some of his ancestors served in the
revolutionary war. Samuel Beers, a great-uncle, was killed in Septem-
ber, 1777, aged 25 years. Mr. Beers has been engaged in mercantile
trade since 1866, and since 1883 has owned and operated a store in
North Branford. He has been the postmaster since 1883, with the ex-
ception of three years. His wife was Sarah Smith. They have one
daughter, Florence L., and one son.
Martin C. Bishop, born in 1823, is a son of Augustus and Patty
(Loper) Bishop. Mr. Bishop is a joiner by trade. He came from
North Guilford to North Branford in 1859. He was several years select-
man, and in 1870 was representative in the legislature. His first wife
T
98 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
was Angfeline A. Chittenden, and his second wife was Janette A.,
daughter of Jacob Griswold. They have one daughter, Ellen, wife of
Frank Foot.
Edward J. Buel, born in 1833, in Clinton, Conn., is a son of Will-
iam A. and Rosetta (Stevens) Buel, and grandson of Oliver, whose
father, James, was a son of Reuben Buel. Mr. Buel is a mason by
trade. He lived in Ohio and Michigan from 1840 until 1875, when he
came back to Connecticut. He served in the late war in Company D>
75th Ohio Volunteers; was a prisoner at Andersonville and Florence,
S. C, for six months. He married Lovina Manley, who died leaving
three children: Minnie A., Clifford E. and Elbert E. His second wife
was Mrs. Dorliska A. Griswold, daughter of Heman and Mabel (Field)
Stone. Mrs. Buel had one son by her former marriage, Charles Gris-
wold.
Edwin A. Buell, born in 1832 in Clinton, Conn., is a son of Horace
Buell. He is a tinsmith by trade, and came to Northford in 1858. He
was in the late war in Company K, 15th Connecticut Volunteers, for
three years. He married Mary Amelia, daughter of Seneca and Mary
(Hart) Barnes, and granddaughter of Samuel Barnes.
Frank O. Burr, born in Haddam, Conn., in 1853, is a son of Ste-
phen D. and Fannie A. (Lane) Burr, and grandson of David Burr. He
came to North Bran ford in 1875, where he is a farmer. He married
Sarah L., daughter of Richard and Lucretia B. Russell, and grand-
daughter of Jonathan Russell. They have one daughter, Lucretia H.
Luther Chidsey, born 1800, died 1872, was a son of Caleb and Re-
becca (Page) Chidsey, and grandson of Isaac Chidsey. Mr. Chidsey
was a farmer. He married Eliza, daughter of David Palmer. Their
children are: Grace (Mrs. Noah Foot), Mariette, Leverett (married
Mary Grannis), Myrick (married Emma, daughter of John Grannisand
sister of Leverett's wife, and has two children, Georgia L. and Wal-
ter), and Emma (Mrs. Edward Newton).
Rebecca S. Clark, daughter of Ebenezer and Sarah M. (Smith) Wil-
cox, married, first, Nelson Burr, of Haddam, who died, leaving one
daughter, Sarah M., who married Ellis Stevens, and has three chil-
dren: Elbert W., Flora B. and Willie E. Mrs. Burr afterward married
Admerald Clark, of Durham. They came from Durham to North
Branford in 1885, and three years later Mr. Clark died.
Reverend Frank Countryman was born in New Haven, September
23d, 1849, and is a son of Nicholas and Louisa (Hine) Countryman. At
the age of 13 he entered Hopkins Grammar .School, New Haven, and
prepared for Yale College; entered Yale College in 1866, and graduated
in 1870; then studied (1871-2) in Yale Theological Seminary. He was
married first, December 26th, 1870, at New Haven, to Mary I., oldest
daughter of Judge Pickett, of city court, New Haven. She died August
24th, 1877, leaving no children. Mr. Countryman married Miss Ella S.
Butricks, of New Haven, November 18th, 1880, and they have one child,
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 99
Ella May, born November 9th, 1882. Mr. Countryman preached in
Brownington, Vt., during the summers of 1872 and 1873; was pastor
at Prospect, Conn., 1874 to 1877; preached at Georgetown, Conn., 1880
to 1882; pastor at North Branford, Conn., since 1882. He is a member
of the Connecticut Society of the Sons of the Revolution, and a de-
scendant of revolutionary stock.
E. Washington Dudley, born in 1824, in Madison, is a son of David
and Abigail (Stevens) Dudley, and grandson of David Dudley. Mr.
Dudley came from North Madison to North Branford in 1876. He
married first, Jane, daughter of Gaylord Munger. She died, leaving
four children: Helen A. (Mrs. Edson S. Beardsley), Mary E. and Martha
E. (twins), and Frank E. Mary E. married Sedley D. Bartlett, and
Martha E. married George B. Stone. His second wife was Emeline,
daughter of Elihu Stevens.
Bela H. Foote, born in 1816, is a son of Rufus and Elizabeth (Har-
rison) Foote, and grandson of Daniel, whose father, Daniel, was a son
of Joseph, whose father, Robert, was a son of Nathaniel Foote. Mr.
Foote first married Almira Pierpoint, who died, leaving one son, Adel-
bert P. His second marriage was with Mary, daughter of John and
Esther (Coe) Birdsey. Their children are: Martha A. (Mrs. T. A. Coe),
Carrie L. (Mrs. S. A. Barnes), and Ella M. (Mrs. O. C. Kelsey). Mr.
Foote is a farmer.
John M. Foote, born in 1819, is a son of Edwin and Salina (Maltby)
Foote, grandson of Elihu, and great-grandson of Daniel, whose father,
Daniel, was a son of Joseph, whose father, Robert, was a son of Na-
thaniel Foote, of Wethersfield, Conn., the first settler. Mr. Foote
is a farmer. His first marriage was with Sarah A. Monson, who
died leaving one son, Sereno M., who married Rose Cooper, and has
three children: Laura, S. Scott and John H. Mr. Foote's second wife
was Mrs. Lydia J. Crook, a daughter of Hezekiah Towner, of New
Milford, Pa.
Lynde H. Foote, son of Warren W. and Lucinda (Harrison) Foote,
and grandson of Elihu Foote, was born in 1834, and is a farmer. He
married Juliette, daughter of George W. Gedney. They have one
daughter, Flora G.
Noah Foot, born in 1825, is a son of Walter R. and Sally A. (Har-
rison) Foot, and grandson of Jonathan Foot. Mr. Foot represented
the town in the legislature in 1872, and has held several town offices.
He married Grace, daughter of Luther and Eliza (Palmer). Chidsey.
They have two sons, George and Frank.
George L. Ford, born in 1839, is the youngest son of William and
Sarah (Rose) Ford, grandson of Davis, and great-grandson of Samuel
Ford. Mr. Ford is a farmer. He married Lois R., daughter of Luther
F. Dudley. They have four children: Walter D., Frederick L., Robert
N. and George D.
Andrew M. Gates, born in 1831, is a son of Andrew M. and Lucinda
100 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
(Augur) Gates, and grandson of John Gates. Mr. Gates is a farmer.
His first marriage was with Olive E., daughter of Harvey and Lydia
Auorur. She died leaving two children: Andrew M. and Addie M.
His present wife is Laura, daughter of Eliaday Harrison.
J. Henry Gates, born in 1831, is a son of John M. and Sylvia (Pal-
mer) Gates, and grandson of John Gates, who came to North Branford
in 1793. Mr. Gates represented the town in the legislature in 1889,
and has been selectman one year. He married Sarah L., daughter of
Charles and Louisa A. (Monson) Todd, granddaughter of Albert, whose
father Charles, was a son of Albert Todd. They have three children:
Charles M., Sylvia L. and John H.
John A. Gates, born in 1836, is a son of Andrew M. and Charlotte
(Robinson) Gates. He married Grace A., daughter of George Augur.
They have one daughter, Mary Etta, wife of Charles E. Linsley.
Jerome Harrison, born in 1806, was the only child of Thaddeus and
Betsey Harrison, grandson of Butler, and great-grandson of Timothy,
whose father Josiah, was a son of Nathaniel, whose father Thomas,
with his brother Richard Harrison, came to Branford about 1644. Mr.
Harrison is a farmer. He was a member of the house of representa-
tives in 1S84 as a democrat. He married Lydia Chidsey, daughter of
.Samuel and Betsey (Holt) Chidsey. Their only daughter, Amorette
W., died at the age of 17 years.
Jesse L. Harrison, son of John H. and Sally (Linsley) Harrison,
and grandson of Martin Harrison, is a farmer and dairyman. His first
wife was Anna Jackson, who died leaving one daughter, Anna J. His
present wife was Marion E., daughter of Russell and Emily (Dud-
ley) Foote. They have one son, Robert R., and one daughter, Sallie
Linsley.
John C. Harrison, born in 1838, is a son of Amos and Harriet (Hart)
Harrison, grandson of Amos A., and great-grandson of Amos Harri-
son. Mr. Harrison is a farmer. He was for two years selectman.
His first wife was Stella, daughter of Darius Hull of Cheshire. His
present wife is Susan Emily, daughter of Bradford J. Hull, of Wood-
bury, Conn. Their children were: Charles C. (deceased), Amos L.,
Harvey C. and Clarence E.
Nathan Harrison, born in 1836, is a son of Albert and Ann (Foote)
Harrison, grandson of Nathan, and great-grandson of Nathan, whose
father, Josiah, was a son of Nathaniel, and grandson of Thomas Har-
rison. Mr. Harrison is a farmer. He served nine months in the war
in Company B, 27th Connecticut Volunteers. He married A. Louisa,
daughter of Nelson Strickland. Their children are: N. Irving, Albert,
Lewis, Leroy, Frederick and John.
Roderick E. Harrison, born in 1845, is a son of Amos and Harriet
(Hart) Harrison, and is a farmer. He is one of the selectmen of the
town. He married Ella E., daughter of Sherman J. Nettleton, of Dur-
ham. They have one daughter, Callie E.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 101
Rufus Harrison, born in 1821, is a son of Eliaday and Rebecca
(Rose) Harrison, grandson of Nathan, and great-grandson of Nathan,
whose father, Josiah, was a son of Nathaniel, and grandson of Thomas
Harrison. Mr. Harrison is a farmer.
Urban T. Harrison, born in 1855, is a son of Lorenzo E. and An-
toinette (Todd) Harrison, and grandson of Benajah Todd. He has
been a turner in Simpson, Hall, Miller & Co.'s shop, at Wallingford,
for a number of years. He has two sisters: Ella (Mrs. T. F. Barnes)
and Louise.
Ai.den Hopson Hill, a son of Arden and Flora (Davis) Hill, was
born in Killingworth, Conn., September 4th, 1831. He was the seventh
of nine children and the elder of two brothers. His parents were
farmers in very moderate circumstances, whose income would not
permit them to educate their children, and the school days of Alden
H. were limited to an attendance of three months in the winter, when
he was fourteen years of age. What knowledge he subsequently ac-
quired was obtained in the school of experience, aided by a thought-
ful disposition and an observant nature. He was thus early in life
thrown upon his own resources, and began by working out as a farm
laborer. As a result of his first season's labors he paid $70 into the
family fund; and from this time until he was twenty years of age all
his earnings were devoted to the relief of his parents and sisters. To
accomplish that purpose he worked incessantly, never losing a day,
and often making over-time, being most faithful in the discharge of
his filial obligations. Several seasons were spent in North Branford,
working in that manner, in the fields, woods and mills, and in 1864
he became a permanent resident of the town. Since that time he has
here built up, by his tireless energy and industrious habits, the for-
tune he now enjoys. He erected his fine home in 1879.
His first business venture, in the season of 1864 — a contract to fur-
nish ship timber for vessel builders in an adjoining town — resulted in
a loss to him of $1,000. But, not discouraged and profitting by his
experience, he persevered in the same industry, and has been very
successful in his subsequent undertakings. He invested in the stock
of thirteen vessels, for which he furnished material, and is now a part
owner in ten of them. Since 1865 he has operated the Chidsey mills,
below North Branford Center, and later, as their owner, rebuilt them.
He has also become a large land owner, and engaged in other enter-
prises which have enabled him to employ constantly from three to
thirteen men, he thus being the most active business man of the
town. In his relations to the community in which he resides, Mr. Hill
enjoys the confidence and esteem of those who know him, and in all
his dealings he has endeavored to conform his actions to the teachings
of the golden rule. He is benevolent and public-spirited, ever being
ready to take a foremost part in the affairs of the church, schools and
town, filling the office of selectman eight years. As the representa-
102 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
tive from North Branford in the state legislature in 1878, he helped to
dedicate the new state capitol. In politics he is a republican, but has
held himself free from partisan feeling. He is an active member of
the North Branford Congregational society, and has for several years
been chairman of the society's committee. The work of that church
has his generous support. In his success in life and conduct as a citi-
zen, he affords a commendable example of one of the best types of
our self-made men.
Mr. Hill was married November 18th, 1879, to Sarah E., daughter
of Judson and Mariette (Thompson) Page, of North Branford, who
was born December 8th, 1847. She is a woman of much worth, and
has ably seconded him in his life work. They have two children :
Raymond Thompson, born January 11th, 1883; and Alden Judson, born
August 12th, 1886.
Charles F. Holabird, born at Sheffield, Mass., in 1857, is a son of
Hiram B. and Mariette (Vosberg) Holabird. He married Bertha,
daughter of Alfred Russell. They have four children: Royal R.,
Charles L., Douglass B. and Ralph H.
Charles E. Linsley, born in 1856, is a son of Edward and Emeline
A. (Hall) Linsley, and grandson of Isaac Linsley. He was married in
1890, to Mary Etta, daughter of John A. Gates. Mr. Linsley's father
died in 1875. He has one sister living, Lucinda Rose. A brother,
Edwin H., was born in 1S65 and died in 1886.
George C. Linsley, born in 1842, is a son of Edward A. and Mary A.
(Baldwin) Linsley, grandson of Solomon, and great-grandson of Rufus
Linsley. Mr. Linsley is a farmer. He has been for. eight years dea-
con of the North Branford Congregational church. He married Het-
tie L. Ball, who died, leaving one son, Merwin B. His present wife is
Vernelia A. Smith. They have two sons: Charles S. and Ernest C.
Isaac B. Linsley, born in 1845, is the only child of John and Lydia
E. (Hall) Linsley. He is the great-great-grandson of John Linsley,
who was the first settler on the farm, which has gone from father to
son until the present owner, Isaac Linsley. Mr. Isaac B. Linsley was
two years selectman and has held other town offices.
James H. Linsley, born in 1835, is a son of John S. and Eliza A.
(Halsey) Linsley, and grandson of James Linsley. Mr. Linsley gradu-
ated from the Connecticut State Normal School in 1857, and taught
school several winters in this and other states. He is a farmer. He
served in the late war in Company C, 10th Connecticut Volunteers,
from September, 1861, until August, 1865, and was wounded three
times. In November, 1864, he was mustered as captain of the com-
pany. He had two brothers in the service: Benjamin M., who was
killed at the battle of the Wilderness; and John S., who is now a phy-
sician. Another brother is a clergyman. Mr. Linsley was represent-
ative from this town in 1867. He married Catharine D., daughter of
Dean Conant, of New Hampshire. They have two children: Eleanor
B. and Arthur M.
^^<^^ fe^tiL
*<-*
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 103
Solomon Linsley, born in 1819, is a son of Elijah and Delia (Foote)
Linsley, grandson of Solomon, and great-grandson of Joseph Linsley.
Mr. Linsley is a farmer. His first wife, Adaline Hull, died leaving one
son, Noah. His second wife was Mrs. Hannah Bradley, daughter of
Augustus Hemingway. Mr. Linsley has been selectman two years,
and has held other town offices.
William Maltby, farmer, born in 1825, is a son of Henry and Ruth
(Hart) Maltby. He is a deacon of the Congregational church, which
office he has held for the past 25 years. He has taken an active inter-
est in all that pertains to the best good of the public schools in his
town, having been a member of the school board for more than 35
years. He represented his town in the legislature of 1881. He mar-
ried Esther, daughter of Doctor Rice Hall, and has two daughters-
Ophelia H. and Mary J. A son, William T., died in childhood.
William Hall Maltby is a direct descendant of one of the oldest
families in the eastern part of the county. He was born in Northford
Society, August 29th, 1810, and was the elder child of Thaddeus and
Elizabeth (Hall) Maltby. Their younger child, also a son, Isaac, born
in 1819, removed to California, where he died in 1889, leaving an only
son, Herbert. The grandfather of William H. Maltby was Benjamin
Maltby, a large farmer and miller in Branford. He died May 10th,
1823, aged 68 years. He had been married first, January 22d, 1778, to
Rebecca Taintor, who died in May, 1786, leaving him five children.
By a second marriage there were five more children, the ten being as
follows: Thaddeus (the father of William H.), born January 15th,
1779, married Elizabeth Hall, May 18th, 1809, died January 12th,
1873, being within three days of 94 years of age; Benjamin, born No-
vember 11th, 1780, married Wealthy W. Chittenden in 1811, and died
in 1S34; De Grosse, born September 14th, 1782, married Sarah Smith,
October 11th, 1807, died February, 1872; Elizabeth, born June 20th,
1784, married Bennett Bronson, May, 1820, died June, 1840; Rebecca,
born April 19th, 1786, died April 22d, 1836; Julius, born January 5th,
1788, married Melinda Fowler, May, 1819, died October, 1872; Samuel,
born January 27th, 1790, married A. De Witt, September, 1816, died
January 28th, 1881; Elbridge, born January 23d, 1792. married Jane
Ball, November, 1822, died in 1863; Erastus, born December 2d, 1796,
married Almira Smith, September 7th, 1826; Eliza R., born April 13th,
1800, married Jonathan C. Fowler, April, 1820.
William H. Maltby was reared a farmer, and for many years ac-
tively followed that pursuit, his habits of industry and frugality aid-
ing him in accumulating considerable property. He was thus en-
gaged in Wallingford from 1836 until 1842, and for the next twenty-
one years in the town of Durham. In 1863 he returned to the old
homestead, in Northford, where he has since resided, honored and
respected by all who know him. Although now advanced in age, he
retains his vivacious disposition and cheerful nature, which are among
1()4 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
his chief characteristics, in spite of bodily affliction. On the 17th of
December, 1845, his hip was dislocated by a fall over the drum of the
water wheel of a saw mill, which precipitated him a great distance
and badly injured him; but after a year he recovered, and thereafter
led a very busy life. He has taken a warm interest in the affairs of
the towns in which he resided, and for a number of years was a select-
man, both in Durham and in North Branford. The latter town he
represented in the state legislature in 1871. He is a republican and
a member of the Northford Congregational church, and member of
the prudential committee. In the earlier years of his manhood he was
much interested in military matters, and for several years he was in
command of the Northford company.
Mr. Maltby was married September 30th, 1836, to Polly A., daughter
of Rufus Foote, of Northford, who died November 27th, 1872. By
this union there were three children: Benjamin E., born February
21st, 1840, died March 29th, 1841; William E.. born April 7th, 1843,
died March 31st, 1S64; Elbridge Lyman Hall, born August 23d, 1846,
now living in the city of Boston. Mr. Maltby was united in marriage
the second time April 30th, 1873, to his present wife, Martha, daughter
of John Birdsey and Esther Coe, of Middlefield, Conn., and grand-
daughter of John Birdsey of the same town.
George H. Munger, born in 1827 in North Madison, Conn., is a son
of Gaylord and Densie (Stephens) Munger, and grandson of Josiah
Munger. He came from North Madison to North Branford in 1868,
where he has been a farmer. He married Emily, daughter of David
and Betsey (Norton) Russell. They have three daughters: Martha C.
(Mrs. Erastus Dudley), Belle A. (Mrs. C. A. Harrison) and Helen R.
M. (Mrs. C. M. Bergstresser).
Charles Page, born in 1839, is a son of Benjamin and Sarah E. (Mer-
riam) Page, grandson of Benjamin, and great-grandson of Daniel,
whose father, Daniel, was a son of George Page, who was among the
first settlers of Branford. Mr. Page attended the schools of this and
surrounding towns, spent one term in the State Normal School, and
later he took a special course in Yale Theological Seminary and was
licensed to preach in 1885. He taught school nine years in this vicin-
ity. He was a member of the house of representatives in 1874, and
has been town clerk and treasurer since 1871. He married Elbertine
A., daughter of Luther F. Dudley. Their children are: Charles A.,
Edson C. and May C. Mr. Page has three brothers and one sister:
John M., Benjamin, Martha E. and Robert.
Herbert O. Page, born in 1846, is a son of Judson and Mariette
(Thompson) Page, and is a farmer. He has been for four years chair-
man of the board of selectmen, and has held other town offices. He
was a member of the house of representatives in 1886. He married
Betsey R., daughter of John R. Baldwin, whose father, Noah, was a
son of Edward, and grandson of Noah, who was a son of Noah, and
y/^- MA
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 1()5
he a son of George Baldwin. They have two children: Herbert D.
and Helen Gertrude.
Thomas Palmer, born in 1817 at Stonington, Conn., is a son of
Thomas and Lydia (Austin) Palmer, grandson of George and great-
grandson of Andrew Palmer. Mr. Palmer followed the sea more or
less from the age of nine years until 1872. Several years of that time
he was in command of vessels. He came to North Branford in 1873,
where he now lives. He married Eliza Hiscock, and their children are:
Charles, George, Edith, Edgar, Jefferson, Daisy, Rosa E., and three
that died — Thomas, Eliza and Edward.
Seth Russell, born in 1814, is a son of Augustus and Lydia (Rose)
Russell, and grandson of Jonathan, whose father, Jonathan, was a son
of Reverend Samuel Russell. Mr. Russell is a carpenter and farmer.
He was a member of the house of representatives in 1866. He mar-
ried, first, Abbie Chidsey, who died, leaving two children: Susan (Mrs.
Samuel Thompson) and Clark. His second wife was Ann Hecock, and
his present wife was. Elizabeth Baldwin.
A. Judson Smith, born in 1841, is a son of Henry and Emily (Wat-
son ) Smith, grandson of Abner, and great-grandson of Pollicarpus, who
came from Barnstable, Mass., to East Haddam,Conn. The latter was
a son of Heman, whose father, Nathaniel, was a son of Heman Smith,
who, it appears from the records of Barnstable, was made a freeman
there in 1642. Mr. Smith is a tinsmith by trade. He came to Bran-
ford in 1867, and from that time until 1888 he carried on the hard-
ware business there, and since that time he has lived in North Bran-
ford. In September, 1889, he was appointed the first postmaster at
Totoket. His first marriage was with Aphelia Pyatt. .She died, leav-
ing three children: Nettie E., Etta M. and Albert W. His second wife
was Mary S. Hand. Their children are: Mary E., Ruth E., Bessie S.
and Margaret L.
Thomas A. Smith, born in 1827, is a son of Thomas and Hannah
(Tuttle) Smith. He was for several years engaged in the manufactur-
ing business in Northford, but since 1875 has been a merchant. He
was for 12 years postmaster of Northford. He held the office of select-
man and was for two years a representative in the legislature. His
first wife, Ann Delia Harrison, died, leaving one son, Albert H. His
present wife is Martha E., daughter of Benjamin Page.
David Stearns Stevens, Jr., was born at Quinnipiac, in the town
of North Haven, April 5th, 1857, and is a son of David and Eliza (Ben-
jamin) Stevens. He was the fifth of six children born to them, viz.:
Albert Benjamin, who died in Northford; Alice Eliza, married Jared
B. Bassett, of North Haven; Elizur Seneca, of the firm of Maltby,
Stevens & Curtiss, of Wallingford; Henry M., also residing at Walling-
ford; David Stearns, the subject of this sketch; and Agnes Gertrude,
married Watson D. Augur, of Middletown. By a second marriage, to
Frances J. Hart, Mr. Stevens had two more children: Frances Jane
106 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
and Peter DeForest, both living in Virginia, to which state the father
removed in 1883. He had become a resident of Northford in 1868 and
for a number of years there carried on business as a spoon manu-
facturer.
As a boy, David S. worked in his father's shops, attending mean-
time the common schools of Northford, but completed his preliminary
education at General Russell's institute in New Haven. In 1875 he
returned to his home in Northford, where he then began the card-print-
ing business in his father's spoon shop, with an outfit costing $36,
which his father advanced to him. From the beginning his efforts
were attended with success and the industry grew so rapidly that, in
1880, the present commodious rooms in the old Maltby Works were
secured. In these new quarters the business was developed until it
became one of the leading interests of the kind in this country. As
many as fifty hands have been employed in carrying on the opera-
tions, which embrace the manufacture and printing of an endless vari-
ety of plain and fancy cards and scrap-book pictures, which are sold in
every part of the Union. In 1880 his brother, Henry M., became asso-
ciated with him, the firm since that time being Stevens Brothers..
Since 1890 the latter has been in charge of the Wallingford branch of
the business, which was established that year.
Mr. Stevens possesses a fertile brain, which has enabled him to
keep in advance of the ever-varying changes of his business and to
constantly devise or add new features, which have further enlarged
it. He has also developed a capacity for affairs which entitles him
properly to a place among the representative successful self-made men
of the county. His skill, tact and indomitable energy and persever-
ance have brought him business prosperity and an honored name. He
is much esteemed in the community in which he resides and has iden-
tified himself with its best interests, serving them so far as the urgent
demands of his business would permit.
Mr. Stevens was married October 9th, 1S79, to Clara Hoadley,
daughter of E. C. and Hannah Maltby, who was born September 27th,.
1857. Her mother, Hannah Hoadley, was a daughter of the Reverend
L. Ives Hoadlev, who was an honored minister of the Congregational
church. Five children have been born as the fruit of that union:
Douglas Maltby, September 4th, 1880; Clifford Fleetwood, July 9th,
1885; Wilbur Benjamin, December 3d, 1886; David Stearns, July 23d,
1888; Clara Marguerite, December 31st, 1889.
Mr. Stevens resides in the E. C. Maltby place, at Northford, which
has been finely fitted up for his home.
Albert Todd, born in 1834, is a son of Charles and Ann Louisa
(Munson) Todd, grandson of Albert, and great-grandson of Charles
Todd. Mr. Todd is a farmer. He married Orpha A., daughter of
Samuel and Laura (Jones) Smith. They have two children living:
Charles S. and Louisa L. One died, Lewis A.
^r-s^<^5>^-.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 107
Willys Tucker, born in 1821, is a son of Sheldon and Betsey (Dor-
man) Tucker, and grandson of Oliver Tucker. He is a farmer and
blacksmith. Since 1861 he has been agent for farm implements. He
married Submit, daughter of John and Jerusha (Rossiter) Graves.
They have two children: Ellen M., wife of Edgar Eaton, and Alice L.,
wife of Charles Munson. Mr. Tucker has served several years as
selectman.
Douglas Williams, born in 1830, is a son of Herman H. and Sarah
J. (Douglass) Williams, and grandson of Herman, whose father was
Herman Williams. His maternal grandfather was Captain William
Douglass, son of Colonel William Douglass. Mr. Williams is a far-
mer. His first wife, Jeanette L. Foote, died, leaving three children:
Benjamin D., Herman H. and Davis F. His second wife was Eugenia,
daughter of Warram W. Foote, and sister of the first wife. His present
wife was Mrs. Ann L. Shove, daughter of Abiatha Foote.
CHAPTER III.
THE TOWN OF GUILFORD.
Location and Description. — Natural Features and Points of Interest. — The Pioneers. —
Civil Government. — Probate District. — Magistrates and Justices. — Town Buildings.
— Cemeteries. — Roads and Bridges. — Industrial Pursuits. — Guilford Borough. —
Lodges and Societies — Religious Interests. — Educational and Literary. — Some
Distinguished Citizens. — Physicians and Lawyers. — Military Matters. — Soldiers'
Monument. — Biographical Sketches.
THE original town of Guilford included the present town and
Madison, which was set off in 1826. It stretched along the
shore of Long Island sound from Branford to Killingworth, a
distance of nearly ten miles, and was nearly eleven miles long from
south to north. At the north end the width was not quite five miles,
and at other points it was irregular. The boundary between Branford
and Guilford was a straight line from the mouth of Stony creek to the
center of Pistapaug pond, upon which cornered the towns of Walling-
ford, Branford, Guilford and Durham. The pond is a mile long from
north to south, and half a mile wide. From this common center a
line, extending northeast to the western branch of the Hammonassett
river, formed the northern boundary, and separated Guilford from
Durham. The eastern boundary was down that stream to the Ham-
monassett proper, thence down the middle of the river to Dudley's
creek, thence down to West rock, on the sound. This separated the
town from Killingworth. In this territory were for many years four
Congregational societies, viz.: Guilford First Society, North Guilford,
East Guilford (now Madison), and North Bristol (now North Madison).
The latter two and a narrow strip, two miles long from the sound
north, of the First Society, were constituted the town of Madison, thus
leaving Guilford with a mean length of eleven miles and an average
width of four miles, the town of Madison forming the eastern bound-
ary, and having the East river in part as the dividing line.
That stream, called by the Indians Ruttawoo, has its source in sev-
eral brooks, or branches, in the northern part of the old town, which
unite at Nut Plains. Then it takes a southwesterly course, and emp-
ties its waters into Guilford harbor, east of Guilford Point. For some
distance it is a tidal stream, and is navigable for sloops to East River
bridge, where are several wharves, in the town of Madison. Near its
mouth are Sawpits, Quarry and the Farmers' wharves. The other
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 109
principal stream of the town is the Menuncatuc, or West river, which
is the outlet of Quinnebaug or Quonepaug pond, in North Guilford.
This pond or lake is two miles long from north to south, and a little
more than a fourth of a mile wide. Its waters are very deep, and the
environing scenery is attractive. Southwest is a smaller sheet of
water called West pond, whose small outlet flows into West river.
The latter stream has a southerly course to the west of Guilford, bor-
ough, and empties into the harbor west of the point. It is also a tidal
stream as high as the village, where small wharves have been con-
structed. East creek is a small stream occupying an intermediate
position between the above streams, and also emptying near the neck
or mouth of East river.
Guilford harbor is too shallow to afford a good entrance for vessels.
At low mark there are six feet of water on the bar, and twelve feet at
full tide. A higher flow sometimes submerges the lowlands along the
rivers. In these fiats and channels are found clams of superior qual-
ity, and the East River oysters are regarded by epicures as the finest
flavored in the state. The quantity is limited, and the price is high.
An effort was made to build a breakwater to improve the harbor, which
has been filling up from the wash of the waters of the sound, but the
government refused an appropriation. In 1703 Guilford was desig-
nated by the general assembly as one of the eight ports of entry in
the colony, and Josiah Rossiter was made naval officer. In the latter
part of the last century Guilford was made tributary to New Haven
harbor. Two miles west is Sachem's Head harbor, which is a small
but deep body of water, almost wholly land locked, and before the
period of light-houses was much used as a night station for vessels in
the coastwise trade. Before 1775 this harbor was also used by vessels
in trade with the West Indies. Many cargoes of cattleand other stock
were shipped from that point, and lumber was also shipped to some
extent. Still further southwest is another expanse of still water, wash-
ing Leete's island on the east. It is too shallow for shipping purposes,
but was formerly a favorite place for fishing.
At both of these larger harbors the land projects in points, which
have for manv years been esteemed as summer resorts. Guilford
Point, a mile or more below the village, has thus been used more than
a century. Later a hotel was built, known as the Point House, which
increased the popularity of the place. This house is now old, but has
an attractive location, with quieting surroundings. Before the use of
the railroad, steamboats landed passengers at this point. A good road
now leads to it from the village railway station.
Sachem's Head, the other point, is three and a half miles southwest
from the village, and is more abrupt and picturesque than the former.
It derived its peculiar name from an incident in the war upon the
Pequots at their fort on Mystic river.
110 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
" The defeat of the Pequots took place May 26th, 1637, by the Eng-
lish under Captain Mason, and their allies, the Narragansett Indians,
and a remnant took flight along the ' shore trail ' of the Indians west-
ward, pursued by a few English under Captain Stoughton and Indians
under Uncas. The English kept a reserve force on board their trans-
ports, which coasted along the shore, scouring every inlet for detached
bands of the retreating foe. When the land party under Stoughton
and Uncas had reached this head-land projecting into the Sound Uncas,
who knew Indian craft, left the trail and made a thorough search of
the point. A chief and several warriors were found. The refugees
made effort to escape by swimming across the narrow part of the har-
bor, and were captured as they landed. The Sachem was shot dead
with an arrow by Uncas, who cut off his head and placed it between
the limbs of an oak tree, which grew around the skull, holding it
firmly for years, and from this tragedy originated the name ' Sachem's
Head.' "*
This expedition of Captain Stoughton was one of the means which
led to the settlement of the county, first at New Haven, and later
brought the Guilford settlers to that place and this section.
" It has been said that Captain Stoughton on his return with the
fleet put in for refuge and spent a few days in the beautiful bay of
the 'Red Mountains,' later the ' Fayre Haven ' of the Whitfield com-
pany, and observing its many advantages for a commercial town site
he, on his return to Massachusetts Bay, informed Governor Eaton and
company, who had just landed, of its adaptability for settlement, and
the Governor, notwithstanding advantageous offers which had been
made at Boston, Salem and Lynn for their settlement, and also the
lateness of the season, came here with a company to view this ' prom-
ised land.' On being satisfied with its conditions which invited set-
tlement, he at once made all preliminary steps necessary for its pur-
chase of the then nearly extinct tribes (the Ouinnipiacs), and built a
hut and left a small company to hold and occupy the territory until
the next spring. He then returned and took possession of his new
purchase."
From New Haven attention was directed to the desirable lands of
Guilford and Milford, which, no doubt, were soon after prospected,
with a view to their acquisition by the whites.
A little east of Sachem's Head is a place called Bloody Cove, where
is said to have occurred a fatal skirmish between Uncas and his clan
and the Pequots before the above capture took place.
Sachem's Head point became well known as a seaside resort half a
century ago, and was for many years a fashionable summer watering
place. A hotel, with accommodations for several hundred guests, was
erected, and the grounds were finely laid out for the accommodation
of the visitors. It was for many years largely patronized, but was de-
♦Captain Townsend.
HISTORY OF NEW KAVEN COUNTY. Ill
stroyed by fire in June, 1865. After some years the locality became
popular for seaside cottages, and is again growing much in favor.
Between Guilford and Sachem's Head points is a projection of
land called Mulberry point; and at the sound extremity of Leete's
Island is Leete's point. The name Leete's Island is applied to the
southwestern part of the town, much of which is low land. Off shore
from Guilford harbor, and some distance from it, is Falcon or Faulk-
ner's island, which is a part of this town. After belonging to various
parties it was sold in 1801 to the United States government for $325,
and a lighthouse has since been built on it, which has made this part
of the sound comparatively safe.*
The surface of Guilford presents a varied aspect. The northern
part is elevated and broken by the northeastern extremity of Totoket
mountain, which extends into its territory several miles, terminating
in a bold bluff. Along Ouinnebaug pond and extending south to
North Guilford Center are also a series of hills, some of them very
steep. South of this are elevations bearing the local names of Long
hill, a high ridge on the west side of the West river; Moose hill, of
less altitude, extending into the town of Branford; and Clapboard hill,
the elevation between the East creek and East river. South of these
the change to the lowlands is rapid, there being only small elevations,
showing upheavals of granite rock, with a hard and compact soil.
Much of the entire surface is of a stony nature, better fitted for wood-
lands than for cultivation. But along the shore are alluvial plains and
along the streams are some intervales having strong and generous
soils, which with proper tillage yield profitable crops. Corn, wheat
and the root crops have given bountiful returns and the agriculture
of the town in its extent and products is not exceeded by an equal area
in the county.
Along the sound and several miles back the lands are either
swampy or are alluvial deposits, naturally very fertile, and are still
further enriched by skillful fertilization. For many years this was
the section first tilled by the Guilford settlers and before their coming
had been the favorite planting ground of the Indians, who called it
Menuncatuc. All the bounties of nature were here generously pro-
vided—a strong, fertile and easily cultivated soil, game and water fowl,
fresh fish and sea food. These conditions, also, most naturally at-
tracted the attention of the whites to this locality and led to the early
purchase of the Indian lands.
That part of Guilford on the coast, lying between the East river
(Ruttawoo) and the Stony creek (Agicomook), was purchased of the
sachem squaw of Menuncatuck, Shaumpishuh, acting for the Indian in-
habitants, who agreed to the sale September 29th, 1639. The commis-
* At the general court at Hartford, October 18th, 1677, "Liberty was granted
to Andrew Leete to purchase Falcon Island and Goose Island * * which
.said Islands lie before or near Guilford." (.Col. Rec. of Conn.. 1665-77.)
112 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
sioners for the whites were Henry Whitfield, Robert Kitehell, William
Chittenden, William Leete, John Bishop and John Cofhnge. The pay-
ment was a dozen each of coats, glasses, pairs of shoes, hatchets, hoes,
pairs of stockings, knives, hats, porringers, spoons, fathoms of wam-
pum, four kettles and two English coats. Most of the Indians now
removed to Branford and East Haven, but a few received liberty to
remain for a time at Ruttawoo.
"At the time of the above pirrchase it was understood that the deed
for the land should remain in the hands of the above committee of
planters until a church should be formed, to whom it should then be
given and under whose superintendence the lands should be divided
out to those interested in them. The English settlement was com-
menced immediately after this purchase on the ground where is
now Guilford borough, the plain and some other lands near by
having already been cleared by the natives and prepared for culti-
vation."*
The first settlers were mostly emigrants from the counties of
Kent and Surrey, in England, and came to America in 1639 in two
vessels. They landed at New Haven and remained there a short
time as a distinct company, and were not a part of the New Haven
planters or company. Many of them were persons of position and
influence in England and nearly all were farmers in that country.
Their sole purpose in coming to the new world was that they might
have greater religious liberty and the advantages of a community
having a concordance of belief. Accordingly, while yet on ship-
board, they organized themselves as a separate community and
entered into relations which are expressed by the following cove-
nant:
" We, whose names are hereunder written, intending by God's
gracious permission to plant ourselves in New England, and if it
may be, in the southerly part, about Ouinnipiack: We do faithfully
promise each to each, for ourselves and families, and those that be-
long to us; that we will, the Lord assisting us, sit down and join
ourselves together in one intire plantation; and to be helpful each
to the other in every common work, according to every man's abil-
ity and as need shall require; and we promise not to desert or leave
each other or the plantation, but with the consent of the rest, or
the greater part of the company who have entered into this engage-
ment.
"As for our gathering together in a church way, and the choice of
officers and members to be joined together in that way, we do refer
ourselves until such time as it shall please God to settle us in our plan-
tation.
" In witness whereof we subscribe our hands, the first day of June,
1639.
*R. 1 1. Smith.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 113
"Robert Kitchell, John Hughes,
John Bishop, William Dudley,
Francis Bushnell, John Parmelin,
William Chittenden, John Mepham,
William Leete, Thomas Norton,
Thomas Joaues, Abraham Cruttenden,
John Jurdon, Francis Chatfield,
William Stone, William Halle,
John Hoadly, Thomas Naish,
John Stone, Henry Kingsnorth,
William Plane, Henry Doude,
Richard Gutridge, Thomas Cooke,
Henry Whitfield."
It is said that the vessel which bore this company was a ship of
about 350 tons burden and, sailing from London about May 25th, 1639,
entered New Haven harbor some time near the beginning of July. It
is claimed that Whitfield's vessel was the first that ever cast anchor in
the waters of the Quinnipiac. " The sight did so please the captain of
the ship and all the passengers that he called New Haven harbor 'the
Fayre Haven.' " But for some reason it was changed to New Haven,
and nearly two centuries later the very prosperous east part of the
town was called Fair Haven.
After landing at New Haven they soon, under the friendly direc-
tion of Mr. Davenport and Mr. Eaton, selected Menuncatuc as the
place for their plantation, and not long thereafter named the new town
Guilford, after a city in their native Surrey.
The leader of these 25 gentlemen and yeomen* was the Reverend
Henry Whitfield, a gentleman of influence and wealth, both elements
being freely used by him in establishing his plantation. In temporal
as well as in spiritual matters he was the foremost of the " English
planters of Menuncatuc," and the first improvements were made under
his direction. One of the first acts was to locate a town site, which
was done by following the English fashion of laying out a market
place or green of oblong shape and building around it. This being
done, they commenced building homes for themselves, the houses of
some of the planters being put up in a very substantial manner of
stone, and also after the style of the better English farm houses of
that period.
The famous old stone house of Guilford was built by Mr. Whitfield
in 1639-40, and was probably the best in the village. It was made un-
usually strong, so that it would also serve as a means of defense against
Indians. It is still standing, although in a remodelled condition.
* The first planters were of these two ranks— gentlemen and yeomen. The
former were men of wealth and bore the title of Mr. The commonality were
spoken of without a title prefixed, or were called goodman or neighbor. But
none of these planters were poor, and but few had servants.
8
114 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Until 18GS the original form was preserved, and even now the large
â– stone chimney and the north wall remain as they were put up, 250
years ago, making this the oldest English built house in the United
States. It occupies a good site on slightly rising ground, which over-
looks the great plain south of the village, and gives a fine prospect of
the sound. Mr. Whitfield had a large family of grown children, and
it is said that the first marriage in the town was here held, when Mr.
John Higginson took to wife one of his daughters. The wedding
feast was very simple, consisting of pork and pease.
The original Whitfield house was described, in 1859, by R. D.
Smith, as follows:
"The walls are of stone from a ledge eighty rods distant to the east.
The material was probably brought on handbarrows across a swamp,
over a rude carfseway, which is still to be traced. A small addition
has in modern times been made to the back of the house, but there is
no question that the main building remains in its original state, even
to the oak of the beams, floors, doors and window sashes. * * * *
In the recesses of the windows are broad seats. Within the memory
of some of the residents of the town the panes of glass were of dia-
mond shape.
" The height of the first story is seven feet and two-thirds, the
height of the second is six feet and three-quarters. At the southerly
corner in the second story there was originally an embrasure about a
foot wide, with a stone flooring, which remains. The exterior walls
are now closed up, but not the walls within.
"The walls at the front and back of the house terminate at the floor
of the attic, and the rafters lie upon them. The angle of the roof is
sixty degrees, making the base and sides equal. At the end of the
wing by the chimney is a 'recess,' which must have been intended as a
place of concealment. The interior walls have the appearance of
touching the chimney, like the walls at the northwest end, but the re-
moval of a board discovers two closets, which project beyond the
lower part of the building.
" This noted residence was sold by Mr. Whitfield on his removal to
England in 1652 to Major Thompson, of London, an important man in
England during the commonwealth, and continued in his family until
October 22d, 1772, when Mr. Wyllys Elliot, of Guilford, bought it for
£3, 000, Massachusetts money."
In 1890 this house and much of the original Whitfield plantation
was the property of Mrs. Sarah B. Cone, and was in a well preserved
condition.
Other stone houses were built soon after by Jasper Stillwell, on
the lot north of Mr. Whitfield; by Mr. John Higginson, on the south-
west corner of the green, on the south side of Bridge street; by Sam-
uel Desborough, west, on the same side of the street. Opposite them
' lived planters Ward and Bishop. Mr. Robert Kitchell lived west of
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 115
the northwest corner of the green, and John Fowler lived on the op-
posite corner. Mr. William Leete was farther west, on the river, and
Mr. William Chittenden was on the opposite side of the street, the
lots being still occupied by his descendants. But no building except
the Whitfield house remains.
The next step of the planters was to increase the area of the town,
so as to have ample lands for every one. Additional purchases
were made of the Indians by Mr. Whitfield, September 20th, 1641,
when he bought of the sachem Weekwosh the territory along the
sound eastward from the East river to Tuxis Pond, for a small con-
sideration of clothing. The right of Weekwosh to sell this land
being doubted, the title was perfected by another purchase of Uncas,
the sachem of the Mohegans, who claimed the land by right of con-
quest of the Pequots in 1637, when the last of their warriors was slain
by Captain Stoughton in the swamp at Fairfield. This purchase was
made December 17th, 1641, by Mr. Whitfield, Robert Kitchell, William
Chittenden and others of the English planters, and embraced the land
on the sound between the points named and north through the town-
ship. The consideration was four coats, two kettles, four fathoms of
wampum, four hatchets and three hoes.
In the meantime the remaining territory of the old town had been
secured of the Indians by Colonel George Fenwick. of Saybrook, who
was a personal friend of Mr. Whitfield and other planters of Guilford.
" Mr. Whitfield being desirous of extending the township still fur-
ther eastward, made repeated application to his friend Fenwick to
convey to his plantation a tract lying between Tuxis and Hammon-
asset rivers, which Mr. Fenwick had bought of Uncas, and in a letter
dated October 22d, 1645, Mr. Fenwick gave this tract to Guilford, on
conditions that the planters would ' accommodate Mr. Whitfield with
land to his content,' and he was authorized to hold the land until the
conditions should be fulfilled.
" This grant from Mr. Fenwick was accepted by Guilford, which
made Mr. Whitfield several allotments of land, which he afterward
deeded to the town, the 20th of August, 1650, for the consideration of
£20, paid in wheat."
Other purchases were made of Indian claimants, the last being in
1686, when much of what is now North Guilford was bought of the
Indian Nausup, for £16 12s.
For many years the great concern of the planters was the proper
distribution of the foregoing land. Some of it was held in commons
many years, and others were fenced as common meadows, common ox
pastures and common young cattle pastures. Before 1666 two allot-
ments of land had been made; the third took place in 1667: another,
including North Guilford lands, in 1691. Subsequently other divisions
were made, there being in all more than half a dozen allotments,
and the business of the proprietors was not closed up until 1831.
116 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
It is known that there were forty planters in "1639, but owing to
the vagueness of the records their names cannot be given with any
degree of certainty. In 1651 the following were the freemen of the
town: Henry Whitfield, Jno. Higginson, George Hubbard, Mr. Samuel
Disborow, Mr. Robert Kitchell, Mr. William Chittenden, Mr. William
Leete, Thomas Jordan, John Hoadley, John Scranton, George Bartlett,
Jasper Stillwell, Alexander Chalker, John Stone, Thomas Jones, Wil-
liam Hall, Thomas Betts, John Parmelin, Sr., Henry Kingsworth,
Thomas Cook, Richard Bristow, John Parmelin, Jr., John Fowler, Wil-
liam Dudley, Richard Gutteridge, Abraham Cruttenden, Sr., Edward
Benton, John Evarts.
The following were planters in Guilford before this period, 1652,
but had not yet been admitted as freemen; or, in other words, they
were not accepted church members: John Bishop, Sr., Thomas Chat-
field, Francis Bushnell, Henry Dowd, Richard Hues, George Chatfield,
William Stone, John Stevens, Benjamin Wright, John Linsley, John
Johnson, John Sheader, Samuel Blachley, Thomas French, Stephen
Bishop, Thomas Stevens, William Boreman, Edward Sewers, George
Highland, Abraham Cruttenden, Jr.
Some of the original planters had died before this period, or had
removed. Among these were John Cofhnge and Thomas Norton.
Thomas Mills died in 1648, John Mepham in 1649, John Jordan in
1649, William Somers in 1650, and Francis Austin in 1646; the last
named being one of the drowned on the ill-fated Lamberton ship,
which sailed from New Haven that year.
Some of the foregoing planters did not come directly to Guilford,
but were first located elsewhere. John Higginson came from Salem,
Mass., in 1641; John Fowler and Edward Benton came from Milford,
and George Hubbard was first at Wethersfield and later at Milford.
Doctor Bryan Rossiter came in October, 1651, having purchased the
holdings of Samuel Desborough. William Seward came from England
to New Haven and from the latter place to Guilford in 1651. He was
the first tanner and was also captain of the train band.
John Baldwin came from Milford in 1651; William Johnson from
New Haven in 1653; John Hill, a carpenter, from England in 1654;
John Graves from Hartford in 1657, and Thomas Clarke and Thomas
Meacock came from Milford about 1659 or earlier. Richard Hubball
was admitted a planter in 1654, and the same year John Hodgkin*
came from Essex, England.
In 1652 John Smith came from Fairfield as the blacksmith and took
the oath of fidelity in 1654. A large tract of land was given him upon
condition of his settlement, and that he follow his trade in the town
five years. This he did, but for some cause did not remain much
longer, removing, with others, to Killingworth in 1664. So urgent
was the need for a smith that in 1675 Samuel Baldwin was invited to
* This name was modified to Hotchkin and still later to Hotchkiss.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 117
come from Fairfield and liberal inducements were held out for him to
settle, by giving him a site on the village green for his shop, and lands
elsewhere.
In 1657 the following were the freemen and the dates of their sub-
sequent deaths: William Leete, removed to Hartford as governor, died
April, 1683; Robert Kitchell, removed to Newark 1666, died October,
1671; William Chittenden, February, 1660; George Hubbard, January,
1683; Mr. Bryan Rossiter, .September, 1672; Mr. John Bishop, January,
1661; Abraham Cruttenden, Sr., January, 1683; William Dudley, March,
1684; William Johnson, October, 1702; Benjamin Wright, Sr., March,
1677; William Stone, November, 1683; Thomas Cooke, December, 1692;
John Stevens, September, 1670; John Fowler, September, 1670; John
Hill, June, 1689; John Parmelin, Sr., November, 1659; John Evarts,
May, 1669; Thomas French; William Seward, March, 1689; William
Stevens, January, 1703; Henry Kingsworth, July, 1668; Richard Gutt-
ridge, May, 1676; Henry Dowd, August, 1668; William Hall, May, 1669;
John Scranton, August, 1671; Edward Benton, October, 1680; Daniel
Benton, June, 1672; John Meigs, January, 1671; Richard Bristow, Sep-
tember, 1683; John Johnson, November, 1681; John Sheader, June,
1670; Richard Hubball, 1692; John Parmelin, Jr.,January, 1687; Abra-
ham Cruttenden, Jr., September, 1694; John Graves, December, 1695;
George Highland, January, 1692; John Rossiter, September, 1670;
John Baldwin, removed to Norwich, 1661; Thomas Clark, died October,
1668; Richard Hughes, Jul} 7 , 1658; John Stone, February, 1687; George
Bartlett, August, 1669; Henry Goldam, 1661; Nicholas Munger, Octo-
ber, 1668; George Chatfield, June, 1671: John Bishop, Jr., October,
1683; Stephen Bishop, June, 1690.
Of the freemen in the former list a number had removed and a few
had died. Francis Bushnell removed to Saybrook; John Linsley and
Edward Sewers removed to Branford; a number removed to Killing-
worth, and a few returned to England. But a number of new plant-
ers and freemen were received into the town, so that in 1672, when
the fourth division of land was made, the proprietors were more than
a hundred in number. The list of freemen of that period embraced
the names of 63 persons. Among these were Joseph Clay, Josiah
Wilcox, Obadiah Wilcoxon, Joseph Hand, Jonathan Hoyt and Thomas
Meacock. Edward Lee came about 1675; James Hooker, the first
judge of the probate court, came from Farmingham before 1700; Peter
Tallman, about 1684; Thomas Griswold, 1695; John Bailey, John Sar-
gent, Matthew Bellamy and Ephraim Darwin came earlier. The latter
resided near the rocks, at the head of Fair street, and owned consider-
able property at that place. Hence the name Ephraim Rocks. Another
wealthy planter was Mr. Thomas Robinson, who bought the allotment
of Thomas Coffinge, one of the original settlers. Along about 1700
among the admitted planters were Comfort Starr, Charles Caldwell,
Abraham Kimberley, Jasper Griffing and Joseph Pynchon, all of
118 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
whom, and their descendants, became prominent in the affairs of the
town.
North Guilford was surveyed and divided in 1705. Soon after this
was done some of the planters began to improve their allotments, going
from their homes, in the First Society, on Monday and returning on
Saturday. During the week they had a common habitation in the new
section, from which circumstance the place was first called Cohabit.
Their numbers increased so rapidly that in 1719 they received liberty
to organize as a separate society. This community has always been
noted for its excellent class of citizens, many of whom were highly
educated. A large proportion of the present inhabitants are the de-
scendants of the following, who were among the early settlers of this
locality, namely: Timothy and Nathaniel Baldwin, George and Daniel
Bartlett, Ebenezer and Joseph Benton, Samuel and Ebenezer Bishop,
Joseph Clark, Daniel and John Collins, William Dudley, Samuel and
Joseph Fowler, William Hall, Samuel Hopson, John Hubbard, Ben-
jamin Leete, Jonathan Robinson, Josiah and Joshua Stone, all of whom
were from the lower part of the old town. Nathaniel Parks and Ed-
ward Parks, the latter a tailor from the East Guilford Society, were
also among the first at North Guilford, as was Theophilus Rossiter,
from the same society. Later settlers in that section were Eben-
ezer Talman and John Chidsey. In 1800 the official census gave the
population of North Guilford as 540; and thirty years later it was only
eight more. In 1850, or twenty years later, the population was even
smaller, being only 495. In the same period the population of the
First Society indicated a small but steady increase, being 1,629 in 1S00,
and 2,158 in 1850. About two-thirds lived in the borough, and in this
society also the rural population has decreased.
The inhabitants of Guilford have always been characterized for their
conservative views and fixed purposes. These traits, continued from
generation to generation, have been the means of keeping a large
proportion of the estates of the original settlers in the family name,
or in the hands of the descendants, who cherish the traditions of the
past. Hence, here a larger proportion of the old homesteads have
been allowed to remain unchanged than in any other part of the
county. There are in the town more than a hundred houses a century
old, and at least thirty that are 150 years old. And so substantially
have most of these been built that nearly all of them are in good re-
pair. vSome of them seem to have partaken of the nature of the occu-
pants to change but very little, and are now substantially as they were
a century ago.
The quarto-millennial celebration of the settlement of Guilford
was held in Madison and Guilford borough, September 8th, 9th and
10th, 1889. The exercises arranged for the occasion were highly in-
teresting and instructive in the history of the town, and the attend-
ance of citizens and visitors from abroad was in keeping with the im-
portance of the event.
HISTORY OF NEW KAVEN COUNTY. 119
It has been seen that the planters agreed that all public matters
should be left in the hands of the six persons to whom the Indians
deeded the land, to be held in trust until a church should be formed,
when the management should be surrendered to that body. But in
fact only four persons exercised the civil power until the church was
organized, in 1643, viz.: Robert Kitchell, William Chittenden, John
Bishop and William Leete. How they managed the affairs of the
plantation in the interim, when Guilford was in reality an independent
body, is not known, as no records of that period have been preserved.
The church being formed they surrendered their trust, and that body
now managed the affairs of the town.
As Guilford became a part of the combination forming the New
Haven colony in 1043, the inhabitants now adhered to the agreement
made in the Newman barn, in all their affairs, civil and religious.
" Their form of government was something siugular. Like that of
New Haven, it was a pure aristocracy, yet modeled and exercised in a
peculiar way. They had one magistrate allowed them as part of the
New Haven colony, of which he was one of the assistants and council,
who was their head, and invested with the whole executive and judi-
cial power. But the planters were allowed to choose annually three
or four deputies to sit with him, in judging and awarding punishment
in all civil cases, in courts held by him, called general courts. The
inhabitants were divided into two classes or orders, by the names of
freemen and planters. The freemen consisted of all the church mem-
bers who partook of the sacrament, and no others were admitted.
They were all under oath agreeably to their plan of government. Out
of their number were those deputies and all public officers chosen;
and by them was managed all public business that was regarded either
interesting or honorable. The second class included all the inhab-
itants of the town, who composed their town meetings, which were
styled, emphatically, general courts. It was, however, required that
they should be of age (21 years) and have a certain estate to qualify
them to act in said meetings. In these town meetings, or general
courts, all divisions of land were limited and established, and all the
by or peculiar laws, for the well ordering of the plantation, were made.
And, in general, all transgressions of the town laws, relating fo the
buying or selling of lands, were punished, and fines and stripes were
imposed and executed according to the nature of the offense by the
judgment of said judicial court. Besides these general assemblies of
the planters and the said magistrate's court, they appointed particular
courts for the administration of justice, much like our justices' courts
at present. These were held quarterly through the year. The magis-
trate presided in these courts and deputies were annually chosen to sit
in council with him in these courts; also, by the freemen. Like New
Haven, they had no juries in any trial; their deputies in some meas-
ure supplied that defect. From this court lay appeals, in allowed cases,
120 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
to the court of assistants at New Haven. Mr. Samuel Desborow was
the first magistrate who held the courts. In general, their judgment
was final and decisive. Town officers were annually chosen, viz.,
marshals, a secretary, surveyors of the highways, etc., much as in the
present manner. Military order and discipline were soon established,
and watch and ward were kept, day and night, under a very strict
charge; and the punishments for defaults in this duty were very severe
and exactly executed."*
The early assistants of Magistrate Samuel Desborough, chosen by
the freemen of the town, were William Chittenden, William Leete,
Robert Kitchell, John Bishop, John Jordan, George Hubbard and
John Fowler. Upon the return of Judge Desborough to England in
1651, William Leete was chosen magistrate and continued in that office
until the union of the colonies in 1665, and several years thereafter.
A very good rule adopted by the planters of Guilford was that no
man should put more than ^500 into the common stock for purchas-
ing and settling the town and that no person should sell or purchase
his rights without leave of the town. After the attendant expenses
were paid, lots of land were assigned in proportion to the money ex-
pended in the general purchase, and the number of members in his
family. These rules prevented too great disparity in the circum-
stances of the people, and put the poor upon somewhat near the same
plane as the rich. Another good provision was that all the planters
should be present at the meetings of the general court (town meetings),
where the second class or planters could be heard as well as the free-
men, provided none of them should "continue speech longer by im-
pertinences, needless repetitions or multiplication of words, which
rather tends to darken than clear the truth or right of the matter."
The representatives or deputies of Guilford — Samuel Desborough
and William Leete — first attended the general court of the New Haven
colony jurisdiction July 6th, 1643, in the records of which session first
appears, officially, the present title of the town. At this meeting Guil-
ford was ordered to pay a tax of £5 " towards the charges about the
combination." In this confederation Guilford took an important part
and for many years furnished some of the principal officers. William
Leete was the deputy governor from 1658 to 1660, and then governor
until the colony ceased to exist.
In 1656 the town was agitated in consequence of a fear that the
Dutch would make an incursion into this region, and that year Crom-
well made an offer to such of the colony as desired, to remove to Ja-
maica, where he could better afford them protection. In answer to
this proposition they said that, " for divers reasons they could not con-
clude that God called them to a present remove thither."
The union of Guilford with the Connecticut confederation was
warmly advocated by some of the citizens of the town, especially by
* Reverend Thomas Ruggles, Jr., mss. of Guilford, 1769.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 121
Doctor Bryan Rossiter and his son, John, but was as bitterly opposed
by others. As early as December, 1662, the former tendered their
allegiance to Connecticut, and being encouraged by commissions, re-
turned to vex and annoy those who did not favor the movement. So
the matter was agitated until May, 1665, when the union was perma-
nently concluded. In the meantime, Doctor Rossiter, tiring of his
troublesome life, had moved out of the jurisdiction of New Haven col-
ony, going to Killingworth in 1664. He returned upon the announce-
ment of the union, but the idea of subordinating the church to the
extent of giving every voter an equal voice in the affairs of the colony
was so repulsive to Robert Kitchell and others, that they removed with
Mr. Pierson, of Branford, to found the colony of Newark, N. J., upon
the original New Haven idea.
The town having acquired titles to their lands from the Indians, or
arranged for the same, now proceeded, under the act of 1684, to secure
a patent from the colony for the same. At a meeting held November
4th, 1685, it was voted to secure a patent, and the following twelve
men were designated as patentees, in behalf of the then ninety pro-
prietors: Andrew Leete, Esq., Mr. Josiah Rossiter, Lieutenant William
Seward, Deacon William Johnson, Deacon John Graves, Mr. John Col-
lins, Mr. John Stone, Mr. Stephen Bishop, Sergeant Daniel Hubbard,
Mr. Abraham Cruttenden, Sergeant John Chittenden and Mr. John
Meigs. The charter was granted December 7th, 1685, and by vote of
the town placed in the keeping of "Andrew Leete, William Seward
and Josiah Rossiter for the town's use."
In 1088 the townsmen were empowered " to look after the town's
bounds and to defend the town's rights against any that shall infringe
them."
In 1722 the town ordered a saw mill built for the common good of
the town. In 1724 the surplus funds of the mills were divided: £B5 for
a bell for Guilford; £8 for one for Madison; and £3 for one for North
Guilford.
The towns of Branford, Guilford, Durham, Killingworth and Say-
brook, having been constituted a probate district in 1719, with the seat
of the court at Guilford, attempts were made at five different times,
from 1718 to 1753, to form a Guilford county. In every instance the
bill, after passing the house, failed in the senate. In 1739 the town
voted .£100 extra "for gaol and court house," if such a county should
be ordered. As late as 1824 the ambition to be a shire town was cher-
ished by Guilford, which was willing to be annexed to Middlesex
county, if it could thus become a " half shire town." Failing in that,
the town consented to the formation of Madison, in 1826, after having
combatted the idea since 1699.
The action of the town upon other matters of public interest is
detailed in the following pages.
Before the formation of the county courts, in L666, probate busi-
/
122 HISTORV OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ness was done by particular courts, called for that purpose. Subse-
quently the county courts had all the probate business, until the divi-
sion of the county into probate districts. Guilford district was ordered
in October, 1719, to embrace the towns of Guilford, Branford (except
Northford, which belongs to Wallingford district), Killingworth and
Saybrook. The latter two were set off in 1780 to form the district of
Saybrook. Madison was created a separate district in 1834, and the
Branfords were created another in 1850, leaving the Guilford district
as it now is, confined to the town of Guilford.
The judges of the district, the years of their appointment and their
places of residence have been the following: James Hooker, 1720,
Guilford; Colonel Samuel Hill, 1740, Guilford; Colonel Timothy Stone,
1752, Guilford; Nathaniel Hill, 1765, Guilford; Aaron Elliott, 1772, Kil-
lingworth; Samuel Barker, 1780, Branford; Colonel Edward Russell,
1782, Branford; Henry Hill, 1810, Guilford; Major Samuel Fowler,
1834, Guilford; Reuben Elliott, 1835, Guilford; Joel Tuttle, 1838, Guil-
ford; George Griswold, 1S42, Guilford; John R. Wilcox (acting), 1843,
Madison; George Landon, 1843, Guilford; Ralph D. Smith, 1844, Guil-
ford; George Landon, 1846, Guilford; Ralph D. Smith, 1847, Guilford;
George Landon, 1850, Guilford; Edward R. Landon, 1854 to 18S2; Ed-
win C. Woodruff, 1S82 to 1886; Henry H. Stedman, Branford (acting
judge), May, 1886, to January, 1887; Charles H. Post, since January,
1S87.
Among those who served man) 7 years as clerks were Colonel Sam-
uel Hill, Henry- Hill, Nathaniel Hill, John Elliot ff William Todd,
Ralph D. Smith, Edward R. Landon, Sylvanus Clark, William F. Isbell
and George S. Davis, the latter serving in 1890.
The magistrates and justices of Guilford the first two hundred
years were as follows: 1644-51, Samuel Desborough ; 1644, Governor
William Leete; 1670, George Hubbard; 1676, Andrew Leete; 1698, Jo-
siah Rossi ter; 1705, Abraham Fowler; 1712, James Hooker; 1734, Col-
onel Samuel Hill; 1746, Captain Andrew Ward; 1748, Colonel Timothy
Stone; 1752, Nathaniel Hill; 1753, Samuel Robinson and Doctor Nathan-
iel Ruggles; 1772, Samuel Brown and Joseph Pynchon; 1774, John
Burgis; 1778, General Andrew Ward; 1780, Thomas Burgis; 1781, Wil-
liam Starr; 1792, Henry Hill; 1794, Abram Chittenden; 1800, Nathaniel
Rossiter; 1802, Nathaniel Griffing and Colonel Samuel Robinson; 1807,
Samuel Fowler; 1815, Joseph Elliott; 1818, William Todd, Esq.; 1819,
Timothy Stone, Esq., Reuben Elliott, Abraham Coan, William Spen-
cer and George Griswold; 1821, George Landon; 1830, Samuel Elliott;
1832, Comfort Starr; 1833, George Hart and Samuel Scranton; 1834,
Colonel George A. Foote and Ralph D. Smith; 1835, Doctor Anson
Foote, Henry Loper and Samuel C. Spencer; 1838, S. C. Johnson, Amos
Seward, Doctor Joel Canfield and A. S. Fowler; 1840, John Burgis;
1841, Reuben Stone; 1842, Walter Osborn, Alvah B. Goldsmith, Elisha
Hutchinson, Horace Norton and Daniel Chittenden; 1843, S. A. Bar-
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 123
ker, William Kelsey and J. H. Bartlett; 1S44, Samuel Robinson, Henry
W. Chittenden, Edward R. Landon and Albert B. Wildman.
The North Guilford magistrates and justices for the first one hun-
dred years and the times of their appointment were: 1749, William
Dudley and Theophilus Rossiter; 1750, Samuel Hopson; 1769, Deacon
Simeon Chittenden; 1772, Oliver Dudley; 1779, General Augustus Col-
lins; 1800, Nathan Chidsey; 1814, Thomas R. Bray; 1818, David S.
Fowler; 1820, Jared Scranton and Henry Elliott; 1829, Colonel Abel
Rossiter; 1830, Richard Fowler; 1832, Samuel W. Dudley; 1836,Wyllys
Ellrott, Alfred Norton and Victor Fowler; 1839, William M. Dudley;
L840, Ammi Fowler; 1841, Benjamin Rossiter; 1845, John R. Rossiter;
1847, Augustus E. Bartlett and Whitney Elliott; 1848, Nathaniel Bart-
lett and Timothy Rossiter; 1849, Edmund M. Field and Stephen Fow-
ler; 1850, John G. Johnson.
The town clerks of Guilford have been the following: 1639- 02, Wil-
liam Leete; 1662-5, George Bartlett; 1665-8, Samuel Kitchell; 1668-73,
William Johnson; 1673-85, John Graves; 1685-1706, Josiah Rossiter;
1706-7, Joseph Dudley; 1707-16, Josiah Rossiter; 1716-17, John French
1717-20, Samuel Hill; 1720-1, Andrew Ward; 1721-52, Samuel Hill
1752-71, Nathaniel Hill; 1771-6, Ebenezer Parmelee; 1776-99, Thomas
Burgis, Jr.; 1799-1801, John H. Fowler; 1801-35, Samuel Fowler; 1835
-8, Reuben Stone; 1838-43, Joel Tuttle; 1843-8, Henry W. Chitten-
den; 1848-83, Edward R. Landon; 18s: 1 , 5, Kdwin C.Woodruff; 1885
6, Wallace G. Fowler; 1886 , Charles H. Post.
For more than a hundred years the meetings of the town were held
in the meeting houses of the First Society. In 1773 the matter of build-
ing a town hall was discussed, but no definite action was taken. There-
upon a public hall was begun by private enterprise, which in April,
1775, the town voted "to take the house which hath been begun and
partly finished by a number of subscribers, and to complete it." The
sum of .£90 had been expended, and the building was offered as a free
donation, on condition that it be used for all public gatherings. It was
not wholly completed until 1793. In 1801 the lower part was fitted up
and leased for a " Store of dry and West India goods." In 1812 the
upper part of the house was rearranged so as to hold more people, and
Baptist and Methodist meetings were held there. In 1830 the hall was
removed to its present site, where it still stands, antiquated and in a
dilapidated condition.
In 1852 and 1856 futile attempts were made to build a new hall. A
special meeting, in 1870, was also fruitless of action. In 1888 the
matter was so far considered that Harvey W. Spencer, John W. Nor-
ton and George W. Seward were appointed a committee on a town
hall. They reported, June 1st, 1889, that a site on the east of the green
could be secured, and that a suitable hall, with town offices, would cost
$12,000 if built of brick, and $8,000 if constructed of wood. In that
condition the matter has since rested, although the town sadly needs
a creditable hall.
124 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The propriety of building an almshouse was considered as early as
1699, and liberty was given to set a small house on the green. But
nothing further appears to have been done until 1790, when another
unsuccessful attempt was made to put up such a building. Usually,
in olden times, there were not many poor, and their care was generally
sold to citizens of the town by the selectmen. As late as 1810 they
were disposed of at public vendues " to whomever shall undertake to
keep them the cheapest."
In 1814 a poor house was secured in the western part of the borough,
at an outlay of $2,080, in which from twenty to thirty persons were
maintained annually until 1827. In the division of the town property,
after Madison was set off, this property was awarded to that town, Guil-
ford taking the town mill. In 1849 another almshouse, east of the vil-
lage, was purchased and used until 1848, when it was sold and the
present almshouse, near Jones bridge was secured. About $1,000 per
year is paid for the support of the poor at that place, and as much
more for the proper care of the indigent outside of the almshouse.
The first interments in the town were made at Guilford village, and
for more than 150 years the village green, in the rear of the meeting
house, was the place of burial. These graves were neglected and un-
enclosed until about 1800. For many years the dead were borne
thither on hand biers. In 1691 the town chose Joseph Dudley " for
the making of coffins on all occasions of death." Joseph Tustin was
soon after chosen grave digger and compensated at the rate of four
shillings per adult grave and " three shillings for lesser persons."
In 1731 the town voted " that the palls or cloaths to cover the coffins
of ye Dead, when carried to their graves, shall be purchased at town
charge and paid for out of the earnings of the mill, and Each of the
three Societies shall have the benefit of one cloath."
In 1817-18 the burial places on the green were vacated, many of
those lying there being reinterred in the East cemetery, often called
the Alder Brook burying ground, about a mile east of the green; and
others found a more quiet spot in the West burying ground, in Guil-
ford, about the same distance on the opposite side of the green. Both
places are of easy access and of appropriate selection. The latter
ground passed under the control of Joel Griffing, Joel Tuttle, Samuel
Fowler, Friend Collins and others, as corporators, in October, 1818.
In the fall of 1862 lands were bought of Bildad Bishop and Samuel C.
Spencer to enlarge the cemetery; and at this time a new corporation
was formed, which had among its members Doctor Alvan Talcott, John
Hale, H. W. Chittenden and many others. In 1890 this cemetery pre-
sented a well kept appearance and had considerable area.
The Alder Brook or Guilford East cemetery also passed under the
control of an association, incorporated September 26th, 1866, which
had among its members Fitz-Greene Halleck, Thomas R. Pynchon >
George E. Kimberly, Doctor Henry Benton and nearly one hundred
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 125
others. It is not as large as the West cemetery, but contains more old
stones, some of which are quaintly inscribed. These inscriptions, of
an earlier date than 1800, and others of the town, in the same period,
have been published by the New Haven County Historical Society.
Here is the grave of the poet, Fitz-Greene Halleck, born in Guilford
July 8th, 1700, and who died in the town November 19th, 1807. On
the 8th of July, 1869, a monument placed over his grave by loving
friends and admirers, was dedicated. On that occasion his friend and
brother poet, George Hill, read an original sonnet, and Bayard Taylor
delivered an eulogistic oration. The monument is plain and unpre-
tentious, but is much visited. The cemetery is substantially enclosed.
A place of burial was opened on Moose hill, in 1801, and one on
Nut plains, in 1817. Both are small and less used now than formerlv.
The cemetery at North Guilford, opened soon after the settlement
of that part of the town, has a most beautiful location, on a hill near
the church edifices, and commands a view of much of the surround-
ing country. It contains several acres and is well kept. There are
hundreds of headstones to the memory of many of the former inhabi-
tants of this part of Guilford. Some have inscriptions which flavor of
quaintness, while others are decidedly pathetic, as, for example:
On a Friendly Visit
Doc't.
Daniel Lyman
Died Sept. 28, 1795;
in the 27 year
of his age.
In his profession very judicious and useful. His early death is greatly la-
mented.
Tims pain and prospects pain our years,
We meet to mingle groans and tears
And bid the painful last farewell.
Burials were made at Leete's Island at an early day by the people
of that locality. With the increase of population more attention was
paid to this place of interment, and it has recently been enlarged. In
1885 it passed under the control of an incorporated body, which has
improved the appearance of the cemetery.
The East river was ordered bridged in 1049, and since that time
bridges have been maintained on the various roads where they cross
the streams, which are small. The oldest road is the main thorough-
fare from New Haven to Saybrook, and was used since the settlement
of the town. It followed, in a general way, the shore trail of the In-
dians. Although never improved as a turnpike, it has, in the main,
always been good. In May, 1794, it was made a part of the great mail
route of the states, from Maine to Georgia, and stages used this thor-
oughfare until forty years ago. In 1818, the Pettipauge & Guilford
Turnpike Company was authorized to build a road from the former
place, in Saybrook, to the stage road in Guilford.
126 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
The Guilford & Durham Turnpike Company was authorized in
1824. A road from Guilford green was built northward, 13£ miles, to
a point on the New Haven and Middletown road. From Guilford the
road was extended to .Sachems' Head harbor, four miles more. As
this turnpike followed the intervales of the stream much of the way, it
had a fine location, and for many years was much used. It has long
since been a public highway.
The New Haven & New London railway was chartered in 1848 to
construct a road through the towns on the shore of the Long Island
sound. The construction was commenced in 1S51, and the first pas-
senger train was run over the road, from New Haven to the Connecti-
cut river, July 1st, 1852. This road and eastern connections were re-
organized as the Shore Line railroad; and as a division by that name
it is now a part of the consolidated system of the New York, New
Haven & Hartford Railroad Company. It was leased to the latter
company in 1870. The train service is very good. Stations are main-
tained at Guilford village and Leete's Island.
Nearly all the first inhabitants of the town were planters or far-
mers, and it is said that for many years some of the mechanic arts
were not carried on, which resulted in many inconveniences to the
community. However, in time, most of the necessary tradesmen were
secured, and thence for a century the town was almost exclusively de-
voted to agriculture; and even to the present time that pursuit princi-
pally occupies the attention of the inhabitants. Hence in Guilford,
more than in any other town in the county, are found the customs and
practices which years ago characterized rural New England, and which
have been promotive of the full development of a sturdy, self-reliant
and intelligent class of people.
The usual grain and lumber mills were early provided, and have
been continued to serve the wants of the people as confined to their
local demands. In early times the cutting and shipment of cedar lum-
ber was so actively carried on that the town issued an order of prohi-
bition, lest that timber should be altogether exhausted.
The first grain mill was commenced in 1643 and completed two
years later. It was begun by Mr. Whitfield, on a contract to build
and operate a tide mill for certain privileges, but was finished and first
operated by Robert Kitchell. After vain attempts, several years, to
make the tide mill work satisfactorily, the site was abandoned and a
site on the lowest power of the West river sequestered by the town, on
which the mill was built with better results. The town has retained
the ownership of the property, and the mill has been rebuilt a number
of times. The present frame was put up in 1854. The power is suffi-
cient to operate three runs of burrs.
Higher up this stream a site for clothiers' works was granted to
Samuel Johnson in 1707. At first little else was done than fulling the
cloth, but later weaving and dressing machinery was added. The
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 1^7
Johnsons carried it on until about fifty years ago, the last owner also
being- a Samuel Johnson.
Other mills and small works were established, so that in 1838 the
town had four saw mills, three grain mills, three fulling mills and four
tanneries. About this period, after the manner of those times, large
quantities of shoes were made, in different parts of the town, and ship-
ped to markets outside of the state. Previous to this time Daniel Hub-
bard had in successful operation an extensive carriage-making estab-
lishment, whose business declined, after 1837, and later that industry
in the-town was carried on in a limited manner only. In more recent
years George A. Hull & Son have been carrying on a hub and spoke
factory on the West river, near the old fulling mill. Water and steam
power are used and half a dozen men are employed. In 1850 Samuel
Jones had a shop for making carriage parts.
In the same locality, some time about 1857, E. C. Bishop and others
had an iron foundry, where they made grindstone castings, etc., and
among their products, for a time, were also castings for the street car
works of John Stephenson, of New York. The industry was not long
continued, but Reuben Bull & Co. were there later.
The building of small sailing craft was carried on from the begin-
ning, and later larger vessels were built. A shipyard, in which many
men worked, was many years maintained at Jones' bridge, where
among the best known builders were Nathaniel Griffing. Frederick
Grifhng, George Graves and William W. Baldwin. The latter discon-
tinued sometime about 1849, but here built a fully-rigged schooner,
which sailed for California, carrying out some of the argonauts. It is
said that some Guilford men were on board of that vessel. At this
point a saw mill was also operated. On the East river was another
shipyard, where sea-going vessels were built by Eben S. Hotchkiss,
William H. Caldwell and others. In more recent years small craft
only were there built. When business was at its best as many as fifty
men were employed at that yard. Some of the craft built were owned
by inhabitants of the town, who were engaged in the coasting trade,
and a few vessels of this kind are still kept in Guilford. A few of the
inhabitants of Guilford were also engaged in the West Indies trade.
About 1847 O. B. Fowler and Charles Bishop bought out the Hull
Foundry, at Clinton, and removed it to Guilford, setting it up at the
wharf by Jones' bridge. They made plow castings and general work.
Bishop, who had come from Meriden, sold out to Fowler the following
year, and returned to that city. The foundry was now moved to the
Xausup brook, where it crosses Fair street, where a large building
was put up and the manufacture of sad irons added. In 1854 the place
was called the " Nausup Foundry and Machine Shop," and O. B. Fowler
was the agent in charge. The property was soon after sold to Israel
S. Spencer and his son, Christopher. Later another son, George B.,
was added to the firm, which became, after the father's death in 1867,
128 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
I. S. Spencer's Sons, and has since so continued. The Spencers began
making plows complete and made other castings to which wood work
was here added, so that it became necessary, as the products were in-
creased, to enlarge the factory from time to time. In 1S69 a brick
foundry, 60 by 100 feet, was built, in which was a cupola having a
capacity for five tons. Castings for school furniture and sewing ma-
chines were extensively made. In March, 1872, the part of the works
fronting on the street was burned, when a two-story brick shop, 66 by
110 feet, took its place. In 1880 the works were further enlarged and
a seven-ton cupola built. The manufacture of scales of all kinds was
now begun, using the patterns of the Universal Scale Company of New
Haven. In 1883 a brass foundry was added. Steam power was sup-
plied in 1872. The works manufacture a large variety of products,
and have become the most important industry in the town. Nearly
one hundred men are employed.
In the spring of 1849 a joint stock corporation was organized, as
the Guilford Manufacturing Company, of which Harlow Isbell was the
president, and which had among the directors Jonathan Bishop, Samuel
C. Spencer, George Bartlett, Horace Norton, Rufus N. Leete and Al-
vah B. Goldsmith. The company purchased in May, 1849, the Baldwin
shipyard and other property at the Jones Bridge wharf , and established
a fine plant on its five and a half acres. Steam engines and heavy ma-
chinery of various kinds were manufactured, which were shipped by
boat from this place. In the fall of 1850 the company bought out
Junius S. Norton's lock and knob manufactory, on High street, which
had been erected a few years previous. A part of this building was
occupied by Ransom Gaylord, in the manufacture of gimlets, which
business he also sold out to the company in 1851. On the plant near
the bridge E. L. Ripley had papier niacin' works the same time, and
business appeared to prosper on all hands, when reverses came which
resulted in the failure of the corporation. The manufactured goods
and the machinery were sold at a sacrifice, and for some years the
property stood idle. After the war one of the buildings at the wharf
was removed to the north side of the green, where it now serves as
Music Hall. Other buildings on that site were converted into tene-
ments.
In 186S the old lock and knob works were occupied by J. W. Scher-
merhorn & Co., for the manufacture of school furniture and apparatus,
which here developed into an important industry. Many men were
employed and large quantities of goods were shipped to all parts of
the Union. The money stringency in 1877 affected this line of manu-
facture, which was here discontinued that year.
After being idle a few years the property passed to the Guilford
Enterprise Company, composed of Amos Gates, H. E. Norton and
others, who manufactured vegetable ivory buttons, etc. The old works
burned down, and about half a dozen years ago a good brick factory
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 129
was located in its place. That business was last carried on by Edwin
C. Woodruff, E. H. Butler and others. In February. 1888, the plant
became the property of the Guilford Savings Bank, and in 1890 it was
leased to the Paragon Novelty Company, transferred to this place from
New Haven.
In spite of these reverses the town deemed it proper to encourage
the spirit of manufacturing, and October 6th, 1884, "Voted, that the
selectmen be instructed to abate the taxes on all the property owned
by any.manufacturing company, or company coming into the town for
the purpose of carrying on business."
Since that time several enterprises have been set on foot. Early in
1886 the citizens of Guilford united in raising a fund of $25,000 for
the purpose of establishing a manufacturing plant for the production
of textile goods. This fund was placed in the care of E. H. Butler,
Alvan Talcott and S. W. Landon as trustees. A lot of ground near
the railway station was donated by A. G. Sommer, on which was built
a large, fine frame mill and an engine room, in which a good Harris-
Corliss engine was placed. The mill was stocked with machinery for
spinning weaving silk, by William O. Atwood, and about sixty opera-
tives were employed. After two years Atwood failed, and the mill,
after being idle a year, was operated a year by Singleton & Co. The
next lessees were George H. Rose & Co., who operated until May, 1890,
since which time the mill has again been idle.
Within the past six years the cultivation of tomatoes has become
an important industry in the town, and several canning establishments
have been started. The Guilford Canning Company, composed of
Messrs. Griswold, Dudley, Hubbard and others, put up a, large cannery
in the northern part of the village, which was extensively operated
two years. On Water street is the cannery of the Sachem"s Head
Canning Company, which has a capacity of 20,000 cans per day. Since
1886 L. N. Benton has been the proprietor. In mid-season more than
one hundred people are employed. The products have a most excel-
lent reputation, widely advertising the name of the town.
The latest industrial venture is the Guilford Creamery, established
in March, 1889. by a joint stock company, of which E. C. Bishop was
the president. The creamery has a working capacity for 500 cows, and
is fitted with modern machinery.
In 1837 the quarrying of granite for export was begun on an exten-
sive scale in the southeastern part of the borough, near East river.
The material for a number of public buildings in New York was here
procured. In recent years the quarry has become subordinate to the
one at Leete's Island, where building stone of superior quality abounds.
It was opened about twenty years ago by John Beattie, and by him
has been successfully developed into one of the most extensive and
important industries in the town.
9
130 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
A: Mulberry point were formerly fish oil works, carried on by Messrs.
'burn, which have been abandoned.
irly eighty years ago the Farmers' Wharf was an important
place in the town. It was built in 1S12 on the East river, at the foot
of Harbor st >ut as early as 166.5. to the tide mill formerly at
that point), by the Farmers' Wharf Company, incorporated January
. th, 1812. Land for the wharf was purchased of Samuel Fowler.
The companv was composed of Samuel Elliott. William Hubbard, Joel
tie. Reuben Elliott & Co.. Solomon Stone, Jr., Timothy Johnson,
Daniel L. Bent::. Peletiah Leete, William Landon, Jonathan Bishop,
raham T. Chittenden & Co., Charles Chalker. Isaac Benton and
Frederick Lee. of Guilford; and Silas Benton and Silas Benton. Jr.. of
Bran ford.
These parties not only used the wharf themselves, but gave that
privilege to others, the charter permitting the charge of wharfage. It
has long since been abandoned, although small sloops still touch there
and " wharves in the town.
The village of Guilford was incorporated as a borough in October,
181" dian Todd authorized to call the first meeting. It was
he". 5th, 1S15, when the following were elected -. Ward.
1 Griffing: burges-es. William Todd. Reuben Elliott. Thomas Bur-
giss. William Spen. aham Coan, Jonathan Bishop: clerk. Sam-
nel Fowler: treasurer, Timotl - ie; bailiff. Reuben Stone.
Extensive by-laws were passed January 12th. 1816. and the streets
were officially named tha
the 17th of July, 1874. the chai the borough was gre
.nded. and the b sas then s general way. embraced
the terr : che W. river, and as high up
si earn as the ancient Bradley ship yard, thence up the stream to
Xcr I road. thenc. - 1 down
am to the S pitbridg nee
ae to the eastern : of the old Farmers' wharf , on the
:o the place of beginning, at Hogs-
point.
This embraces the major part of the "Great Plain" of t set-
gth from the s nearly 1£ miles,
and .:h front ... to west of 14; miles. It ; as all
the public buiL: tigs of the s .y-q and most of the
population .
iges .re not :'. d. as
mc> don of the borough ha- . training
seeking a -' :gh
. Xew H a - jng
.1 become w ss.
raachin. g s org ...
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 131
properly man it. In 1890 the fire inspectors were: D. A. Benton, Wil-
liam E. Weld, A. Hinckley. George W. Hill and Charles Griswold.
The following have been the wardens of the borough: 1816-8, Joel
Griffing; 1819-20, William Todd; 1821, Nathaniel Griffing: 1822-4, Sam-
uel Elliott; 182:.-?. William Todd; 1S28-9, Jedediah Lathrop; 1830-1,
William Todd; 1832, Samuel C. Johnson; 1833-4, George Griswold;
1S35-6, Samuel Scranton; 1837-8, George Hart; 1839-40, Anson Foote;
1S41-2, Miles Munger; 1843-4, Elisha Hutchinson; 1845-8, Joel Tuttle;
1849-52, "Ralph D. Smith; 1853-4, James A. Norton; 1855-7, Edward R.
Landon; 1858-9, Russell Benton; 1860, Franklin C. Phelps; 1861, Reu-
ben L. Fowler; 1862, William C. Dudley; 1863-8, Reuben L. Fowler;
1869-71, Russell Crampton; 1S72-3, Reuben L. Fowler; 1874-7, George
B. Spencer; 187S, E. C. Bishop; 1879, George B. Spencer; 1880, John
Graves; 1881-5, John S.Starr; 1886-90, William T. Dowd.
In the same period the following have been the clerks: Samuel
Fowler, Reuben Stone, Abraham Fowler, Amos Seward, Samuel Fow-
ler, Jr., George C. Griswold, W T illiam Hale, Richard Weld. Roger Gris-
wold, Charles W. Landon, Sylvenus Clark, Edward R. Landon, Bev-
erly Monroe, John S. Elliott, John A. Stanton, Charles Griswold, L.
O. Chittenden, H. Pendleton, Jr., Henry W. Spencer. George W. Sew-
ard, F. C. Spencer.
The borough is sixteen miles east of New Haven, and since 1852
has been a station on the Shore Line railroad. The situation is very
pleasant, and the surroundings have been much improved by the
planting of trees and the laying out of lawns, which give the village
a quiet and restful appearance. Nearly all the buildings are of wood,
many of them being large and substantial, their erection ante-dating
the present century. Here is also the famous old stone house, built
by the founder of the village, Reverend Henry Whitfield, in 1639,
thus being the oldest English built house in America. There are two
Congregational meeting houses, and Episcopal, Catholic and Method-
ist churches; a public hall, a savings bank, several manufacturing es-
tablishments and a dozen other business places. Within the limits of
the borough are several thousand inhabitants.
When the town was first settled and the village established in the
upper part of the plain, the custom of these times was followed, and a
market place or public square set aside, on which the meeting house
and other public buildings were to be set. Around the square the
homes of the planters were to be placed. The tract thus reserved
embraced nearly twelve acres of woodland, about half as wide as long.
Its surface was broken by hillocks, rocks and depressions, forming
pond holes or basins of stagnant water. Some of the trees were cut
down when the first meeting house was placed upon the square, but
measures were early taken to protect them, and they were ordered to
be left standihg. Other trees along the highways were preserved, be-
cause they "are found by experience to be of public benefit and advan-
132 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
tage, therefore, for promoting the same, the selectmen are to mark
therrTwith a G, and then there is a penalty following their being cut
down." In other ways, however, the square was allowed to become a
nuisance. The public buildings were placed on it without regard to
system, and the central part was unwisely used as a place of burial.
Other parts, and even the sacred resting place of the dead, became the
favorite haunt of hogs and cows, who revelled among rank weeds and
garbage until the place looked very forbidding indeed, at the begin-
ning of the present century. At night, when the sun set, the cows
lowed, the geese screeched, and the swine lay off in sonorous sleep.
Smartweed and milkweed had their rights there, and the scraggy sides
of poplars and willows were polished by the scrawny hides of itching
cattle. The gouty land rose in humps and knolls, and the water ooz-
ing out formed natural cisterns, partly drained by those camp follow-
ers, the hogs and cows. At the upper end stood the already aged
town house and the academy, where Mistress Halleck, the poet's
mother, once wielded the ferule. There was the whipping post, too,
for larger children.
But soon after the public sense was quickened by the evil appear-
ance of this spot, and its improvement began. The burial places were
vacated in 1817 and new cemeteries begun about a mile away, on either
side of the village. The rocks were removed, the low places filled up,
and the unsightly poplar trees gave place to the more graceful and
honored elms. The removal of the public buildings followed. The
Congregational meeting house found a more suitable site north of the
green in 1830, and the same year the town house and the old academy
were removed to lots in the rear of that building. The last building
removed was the Episcopal church, in 1838, which found a new site on
the east of the green. The preceding year the ground was enclosed
by a simple white railing, and it now began to develop into the beauty
spot which is justly an object of pride of all good citizens. Much of
the later embellishment was produced by the efforts of the ladies'
society of " United Workers," formed in 1874, which has directed its
further improvement with good taste and loving hands.
The green now has the appearance of an attractive green sward,
studded with stately elm trees, whose grateful shade extends comfort
and rest. But at stated periods, on important occasions, its quiet
beauty is disturbed by gatherings of citizens, which give life and ani-
mated aspect to its precincts. Near the center of the green a soldiers'
monument has been erected, whose natural beauty is much enhanced
by its sylvan surroundings.
The Guilford Savings Bank was organized October 1st, 1875. Its
first officers were: Edward R. Landon, president; Alfred G. Hull, vice-
president; Beverly Monroe, treasurer; Henry E. Fowler, secretary.
Christopher Spencer succeeded Landon as president, and in 1884 was
succeeded by Lewis R. Elliott, who has since been at the head of the
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 133
institution. Charles Griswold was elected secretary and treasurer of
the bank in 18S3, and so served until Jul}- 1st, 1889, when he was suc-
ceeded by the present incumbent, H. W. Spencer. E. H. Butler is the
present vice-president. There are 25 trustees. The bank was opened
for business in Beverly Monroe's store, moving to its present house in
1883. The deposits, January, 1890, were nearly $142,000, and there
was a surplus fund of $5,000.
The first periodical published at Guilford was the Clionian Banner,
a small paper issued by the members of the Clionian Literary Society
of Guilford village. It had a limited circulation and a short exist-
ence.
The first general newspaper was the Shore Line Sentinel, whose first
issue bore date March 8th, 1877. The office of publication was in the
old Chamberlain building and the paper was here continued about a
year, when for want of proper encouragement it was removed to the
interior of the state. It was a large, handsome sheet, devoted to the
local interests of the shore towns, and W. F. Hendrick was the editor
and publisher.
In more recent years the Guilford Item was published as a more dis-
tinctly village local weekly, but it, too, was short-lived. The office was
in the Kelsey building, on Whitfield street, and the material was re-
moved. Since that time several small job printing offices have been
set up in the village.
The post office at Guilford village was established in 1789. In May,
1794, the office was supplied by the great mail route from Boston to New
York. After 1837 the stages furnished a daily mail supply. The
service since 1852 has been by railway and embraces several mails per
day. Medad Stone was an early postmaster, as was also Reuben Elli-
ott, the latter keeping the office many years on Boston street. Amos
Seward, a later postmaster, lived on the west side of the green. George
Hart, Albert Wildman, Elisha Hutchinson and Franklin C.Phelps
were postmasters up to the close of the civil war. Henry E. Norton
followed; and for sixteen years prior to 18S5, Captain Charles Gris-
wold was the postmaster. Then came Henry W. Spencer, four years,
succeeded in 1889 by the present incumbent, George N. Bradley.
Since the war of 1865 a post office has been established at Leete's
Island, and for a longer period there has been an office at North
Guilford.
Formerly the town had hotels of good repute, the Bradley inn,
opposite the northwest corner of the green, being favorably known
until after the building of the railway. The house was large and
had pillars extending through both stories. It has been converted
into a residence. Before the period of stage lines, in 1794, the town
had ordinaries and inns, but they did not attain any special import-
ance. Indeed, the custom of the town did not favor it. We are
told that there was " no such thing as tavern haunting and little
134 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
wasting of time in drinking and fruitless diversion." These habits
of sobriety and industry are largely continued to the present time.
Along the shore a number of hotels were formerly maintained;
the Harbor House, at the foot of Harbor street; the Pavilion Hotel,
on Guilford Point, by Robert Hunt, and still continued as a sum-
mer hotel; the Sachem's Head House, by Samuel Barker, burned in
1865; and the Walnut Grove House, on Leete's Island, by H. Ives,
being the principal ones. At Sachem's Head, summer hotels have
more recently been opened.
Among the merchants of the village are remembered the Chitten-
dens, the Elliotts, and a few others of half a century ago. The
Hales were in trade many years, Henry Hale continuing since 1856.
J. Monroe & Son established a trade many years ago, which is also
still carried on by Beverly Monroe. Russell Clark merchandised
here before removing to New Haven.
At North Guilford stores have also been kept the greater part of a
century, among those later in trade being Edmund Field, Charles
Lane, and at that stand in 1890 was Jerome Coan. Half a mile north
was the store of Baldwin C. Dudley, where was also kept the North
Guilford post office. More recently stores have been opened at Leete's
Island.
Prior to the revolution some members of the Masonic order resided
at Guilford, who complained of the long distance they were obliged to
travel to attend the meetings of the order. Desiring that a Lodge be
established in their town, they made application to the Provincial
Grand Lodge of North America for that privilege, and that body
granted them a charter July 10th, 1771. The petitioners were Timothy
Ward, Bilious Ward, David Landon, Timothy Ludinton, Eber Water-
house, Asher Fairchild, Benjamin Stone, Giles Trubee and William
Johnson. In due time the organization of St. Alban's Lodge, No. 38,
F. & A. M., was effected, with Bilious Ward as the first master. He
was also at the head of the Lodge the next two years. In 1774-5 the
master was Eli Foote. The names of those who presided from 1775 to
1797 cannot be given, as the records of that period were burned in
the fire of 1862, when Music Hall, where the Lodge held its meetings,
was destroyed. Prior to the occupancy of that building the Lodge met
in the old academy building. The present Masonic hall is in the up-
per rooms of Henry Hale's block, which has been neatly fitted up for
that purpose.
The Lodge met statedly until 1827, when its charter was revoked,
and was not restored until 1851, when the Lodge was revived, and has
in the main since had a fair degree of prosperity. In the fall of 1S90
one hundred members were reported.
Besides the masters named the following brethren have served in
that position: 1797, Isaac Chalker; 1798, George Cleveland; 1799, Oliver
Bray; 1800, Jedediah Lathrop; 1801, George Cleveland; 1802-3, Joel
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 135
Griffing; 1804-6, Jeremiah Parmelee; 1807, William Spencer; 180S 9,
Peletiah Leete; 1810, Thomas Powers; 1811, Jeremiah Parmelee; 1812
-13, Jedediah Lathrop; 1814, Abraham L. Chittenden; 1815-16, Joseph
Griffing; 1817-19, Jedediah Lathrop; 1820-3, Amos Seward; 1824, Mer-
ritt Foote; 1825-6, Jedediah Lathrop; 1827, AmosSeward; 1851, Charles
A. Ball; 1852, C. L. Crowell; 1853, Charles W. Miller; 1854, C. L. Crowell;
1855-62, Asahel B. Morse; 1863-6, Henry B. Stannard; 1867-9, William
T. Dowd; 1870-1, Henry B. Stannard; 1872-3, William T. Dowd; 1874
-5, C. HT Norton; 1876, William T. Dowd; 1877, C. H. Norton. And
since that time, in the order named, Hart Landon, A. B. Palmer, George
S. Davis, Charles W. Walkley, S. J. Griswold and Samuel W. Landon.
Halleck Chapter, No. 4, R. A. M., was instituted at Guilford, Octo-
ber 3d, 18S3, with H. I. Fisk as the first high priest. In that office he
was followed by C. H. Norton, E. S. Bishop, C.W. Walkley and George
S. Davis. Other officers in 1890 were: K., Nelson S. Leete; S., Francis
Beattie; secretary, C. H. Norton; treasurer, J. T. Wildman; C. IL,
Charles H. Post;" P. S., J. W. Oughton; R. A. C, Edwin S. Spencer.
This is the only Chapter on the coast between New Haven and New
London, and has 25 members. Its convocations are held in Masonic
Hall.
Menuncatuck Lodge, No. 62, I. O. O. F., was organized in 1849»
Among the charter members were Reuben L. Fowler, Asahel B.Morse,
Russell Crampton, Henry B. Stannard, Horace Fowler, Edward R.
Benton, Amos Griswold and Alpha Morse. After an existence of a
number of years the meetings were allowed to lapse and the Lodge
went down. But on the 25th of February, 1880, it was resuscitated,
with the foregoing charter members and these additional: H. Pendle-
ton, Jr., Henry W. Leete, Charles W. Walkley, Richard E. Benton and
Edwin H. Griswold. In May, 1890, the Lodge had 76 members and an
accumulated fund of $1,200. which was in care of trustees: E. H. But-
ler, George W. Walkley and George P. Rolf. The meetings were
held in Masonic Hall.
Whitfield Council, No. 1034, Royal Arcanum, was instituted April
19th, 1887, with 27 charter members. In October, 1890, the Council
had 45 members. It has had a continued growth and but one death,
that of S. W. Landon, in the summer of 1890. The $3,000 benefit was
paid to his heirs within a month of his decease. The first regent of
the Council was H. S. Wedmore, and that office was filled in 1890 by
F. P. Knowles. The trustees at this time were: George S. Davis, E. II.
Griswold and H. S. Putney. The meetings of the Council are held in
Masonic Hall.
Parmelee Post, No. 42, G. A. R., was instituted June 17th, 1873, with
the following charter members: Alfred N. Wilcox, Charles Griswold,
Henry B. Dudley, Joel Griswold, Eber S. Fowler, John Coulter, Henry
H. Mack, Julian F. Watrous, H. Lynde Harrison, Samuel J. Griswold.
Edward Griswold. The Post has mustered a number of members, and
136 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
had in the fall of 1890 65 comrades belonging. Captain Charles Gris-
wold was the first commander. The other commanders, in the order
of their service, were: H. Lynde Harrison, Alfred N. Wilcox, William
H. Harrison, Julian F. Watrous, Edward R. Benton, L. Odell Chitten-
den, Joel C. Page, Adolph G. Sommer, E. Roger Davis, Edson S. Bishop,
John W. Oughton, Hart Landon, Sylvester R. Snow, Charles Griswold
and L. Odell Chittenden. The Post was instrumental in the building
of the soldiers' monument, and has promoted the decoration of the
graves of deceased comrades.
A Woman's Relief Corps was organized in March, 1888, as an ad-
junct of the above Post, Mrs. Charles Griswold being the first presi-
dent and Mrs. Hart Landon the present. The original membership of
17 has been increased to more than 30.
The United Workers for Public Improvement, more commonly
called the "U. W. P. I.," was organized February 9th, 1874, by some of
the energetic, public-spirited ladies of Guilford, to beautify and im-
prove the village. The society has been maintained in the spirit in
which it was organized, ever embracing in its membership the leading
ladies of the community. Their efforts have led to the material im-
provement and embellishment of the village in the way of having
trees planted, sidewalks built, streets lighted, and properly caring for
the public grounds. As an incidental feature in the accomplishment
of these objects, the society published in 1877 the MSS. History of
Guilford, prepared by the Hon. Ralph D. Smith, under the direction
of its committee, Miss Nettie Fowler and Mrs. Ripley Baylies, and
devoted the proceeds from the sale of the book to the prosecution of
its work.
The public efforts of the ladies have stimulated private and indi-
vidual improvement to such an extent that much of old Guilford has
been clothed with a new dress, presenting a clean, orderly and well
preserved appearance.
The Guilford Agricultural Society, as a temporary body, was formed
a few years after the war. Its permanent organization took place in
1872, and June 25th, 1874, it was incorporated with the following mem-
bership, who had before sustained a voluntary relation to the society
and Farmers' Club, viz.: John Elliott, Lewis R. Elliott, Henry Fowler,
William T. Foote, William W. Fowler, Sidney Leete, J. W. Norton,
Richard Wilcox, William E. Weed, J. S. Benton, Sylvester Snow,
Henry R. Spencer, William D. Hull, Edwin O. Davis, Henry N. Davis,
D. L. Davis, Lewis Fowler, Samuel Cruttenden, Charles F. Leete. To
these were soon added Jerome Coan, George B. Spencer, Richard H.
Woodruff, Richard W. Starr, Arthur S. Fowler, E. Roger Davis, Charles
L. Benton, Dudley Chittenden, Everett L. Dudley, Daniel L. Spencer,
Roger C. Leete, H. Francis Dudley, William H. Lee, Henry H. Gris-
wold, George W. Dudley, Wilbur F. Rossiter, Richard F. Kelsey, and
many others.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 137
The society succeeded in awakening- an interest in agriculture,
which had been languishing, and has been carried on with general
g-ood results. Under its auspices more than a dozen of very success-
ful agricultural, mechanical and industrial exhibitions have been held,
which have stimulated competition and attracted large numbers of
people annually. Usually these shows are held in the public green
and in Music Hall. On these occasions the display of the famous
Guilford red cattle is especially fine, affording a sight seldom witnessed
in any other town in the county, hundreds of yokes sometimes being
in the grand parade, preliminary to the competitive examination.
The society has a large membership, and in 1S90 had the following-
officers: President, Robert E. Davis; vice-presidents, S. R. Snow, D. R.
Spencer; secretary, George L. Griswold; treasurer, George B. Spencer;
directors, George W. Dudley, Charles H. Davis, E. J. Chittenden, E. G.
Davis, John Benton, William S. Leete, William H. Lee, George Rolfe,
R. H. Woodruff, R. T. Kelsey, J. C. Potter, R. C. Wilcox, George Car-
ter, Charles Walkley, R. L. Parker.
Guilford Grange, No. 81, P. of H., was organized April 6th, 1888,
with 15 members. In May, 1890, those belonging numbered 50.
Meetings of great interest are held semi-monthly in Armory Hall.
The executive committee in the summer of 1890 was John B. Hubbard,
George W. Dudley and J. W. Norton.
North Guilford Grange, No. 104, though but recently organized,
has attained considerable prosperity. Its membership is mainly in
the northern part of the town, where the Grange is looked upon with
favor as an educational and social factor.
Undoubtedly the " great design " of the early settlers of the town
was religion and the formation of a church in which they might enjoy
Gospel privileges as best suited themselves. They clearly express
this purpose in their " Plantation Covenant," June 1st, 1639, even be-
fore their place of habitation had been selected, when they speak of
being gathered together "in a church way after such time as it shall
please God to settle us in our plantation." The latter object having
been secured, they now turn to the accomplishment of the purpose
which primarily led them into the new world, where they might better
seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness; or, as they empha-
sized the purpose in 1643, "The mayne ends which were propounded
to ourselves in our coming hither and settling down together are, that
we may settle and uphold the ordinances of God in an explicit Con-
gregational church way, with most purity, peace and liberty for the
benefit both of ourselves and posterity after us." This idea was fully
â– consummated June 19th, 1643, when
The Guilford Congregational Church was formally organized. The
method they pursued was the same as had been adopted by the New
Haven and Milford churches: "Seven Pillars" were chosen as the basis
138 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
of the organization, and to these the remainder of the company joined
themselves to constitute the church.
These seven pillars were: Mr. Henry Whitfield, Mr. John Higgin-
son, Samuel Desborough, William Leete, Jacob Sheafe, John Mepham,.
and John Hoadly. They now drew up a "Doctrine of Faith," which
was used in an unamended form until 1837, to which they first for-
mally assented, then entered into covenant relations with each other.
After this others of the planters were added, upon similar confession
of faith and expression of covenant belief, and being approved church
members were also dignified as freemen. This gave them the right
to fully participate in the affairs of the plantation. Here as in New
Haven only church members could vote or hold office, until after the
union of New Haven colony with other colonies in the state in 1665.
How man}' of the planters were excluded by this provision is not
known, as the early church records have not been preserved. For
many years no deacons or ruling elders were elected, and the tempor-
alities of the church were managed by three men chosen annually.
" To the church thus constituted the four planters — Robert Kit-
chell, William Chittenden, John Bishop and William Leete — who had
been entrusted with the control of affairs until a church should be
gathered, resigned their trust, and by the church thus organized the
civil polity of the plantation was thereupon established."* The
church, it will be seen, thus became the all important factor in the
community, and for many years everything else was subordinated
to it.
It appears strange that a community which placed such an esti-
mate upon the church relation should not have been organized into
that form earlier; but it is probable that there was some cause for the
delay, or the need may not have been so apparent since, no doubt,
they regularly maintained worship. Mr. Whitfield had been the pas-
tor of some of the members in England, and at least one of them,
Thomas Norton, had been a. warden in his church at Ockley. That
there may have been some temporary organization appears from the
fact that in 1641 Mr. John Higginson had been secured as a teacher,
and both were continued by the church in their former relations; and
as Mr. Whitfield had been ordained in England, that formality was
not here followed by the new church.
It is probable that the first meetings were held in the stone house
of Mr. Whitfield, built in 1689, which was first " fitted up with folding
partitions " to afford the necessary room. But a stone meeting house,
with a thatched roof, was soon built on the northwest part of the
green. It may have been completed in 1643, at the time the church
was organized. In 1651 it was ordered to be rethatched " and clayed
before winter," which would indicate that it was perhaps hurriedly
finished. Its capacity was increased in 1668, when a gallery was built
* Reverend Cornelius L. Kitchell.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 139
across the west end or side, for the building was -about 25 feet square,
and the sides of the roof, which were now covered with lumber, came
to a point in the center. In 1672 a porch was added and in 1679, more
room being wanted, it was agreed to build galleries on all the sides
and a porch on the south side. Again it was enlarged in 16S1, and in
that manner was used until 1712.
Notwithstanding the parish of East Guilford had been formed in
1703, the attendance at church was so large that a new meeting house
was demanded and secured in 1713. This was a large wooden struct-
ure, 46 by 83 feet, and three stories high, so as to afford double gal-
leries. At the west end a steeple, 120 feet high, was added, in which
a bell was placed about 1725: and about the same time a clock was
made for it and given to the society by Ebenezer Parmelee, a skillful
mechanic of the town. It is said that this was the first meeting house
in the state thus equipped. In a repaired condition the old clock is
still in use in the present church spire. Up to 1726 the drum was used
to warn the people to attend meetings, according to the custom of
those times. In the old meeting house the men sat in one part and
the women in another; and in the new building it was ordered, in 1713,
that " men and women sit together in the meeting house in the pews;"
which were assigned to families according to age, social position and
the property list. This meeting house, which stood near the center of
the green, was used about 117 years.
Early in 1S2S it was determined to build a new meeting house,
and after some effort to raise the necessary means, thirty members of
the society agreed to build the house, taking the risk of being reim-
bursed from the sale of pews. A lot opposite the north end of the
green was selected, on which the corner stone of the present edifice
was laid June 5th, 1829. It is 60 by 80 feet, with a pulpit recess of six
feet, and originally cost more than $7,000. As dedicated May 19th,
1830, it was a large, imposing frame building, and for those times was
deemed very complete. The old house was now demolished and re-
moved from the green. In 1861 the present meeting house was very
materially improved and modernized, especially the interior. In 1868
Mrs. Mary G. Chittenden presented the society with a superb organ.
Recent repairs have made this building and the parsonage adjoining
attractive and comfortable. On the 20th of May, 1830, the pews of
the meeting house were sold for more than enough to pay all the
bills contracted in its erection, and the ownership remained in the
purchasers until 1850, when they were deeded back to the society,
which has since annually rented them.
The Reverend Henry Whitfield continued his pastoral labors un-
til October, 1651, when he returned to England. His congregation
had become greatly attached to him, for he was not only a pastor,
but, in the words of Mr. Ruggles, " He was properly the father of
the plantation; lov'd his flock tenderly and was extremely belov'd
140 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
by them." His preaching had been most acceptable, "delivering
himself with a peculiar dignity, beauty and solemnity." Hence
when the time came for him to leave his church the people of the
town "followed him to the water's side with many tears," and
bade adieu to him who had in all things amongst them been the
foremost. Coming to Guilford with what seemed great means, his
estate had become much exhausted by helping his people and sup-
porting his large family, so that when a living was offered him in
England, under the protectorate, he felt it his duty to return; and
he ended his life in the ministry in the city of Winchester.
Henry Whitfield was the son of a lawyer and was designed by
his father for that profession. But he became a minister of the
established church of England and served at Ockley, in Surrey.
For twenty years he conformed to the church of England, when,
through his acquaintance with some distinguished non-conformists,
as Hooker, Davenport and Eaton, he also became a non-conformist,
among whom, on account of his ability and wealth, he took a promi-
nent place. From the fact that his family remained in Guilford
some eight years longer, it has been inferred that it may have been
Mr. Whitfield's purpose to return, but in 1659 all the remaining
members, including his son-in-law, the Reverend John Higginson,
left the town, and his landed property passed into other hands.
While the church mourned the loss of its beloved pastor, it was
soon called upon to suffer a still further loss in the departure of two
more of its seven pillars: Mr. Samuel Desborough, who returned to
England in 1651, and Mr. John Hoadley, who went two years later.
In the meantime the teacher of the church, Mr. John Higginson, con-
tinued to preach, and September 5th, 1653, was settled as the pastor.
He remained until 1659, when he also purposed to return to England.
Sailing for England, contrary winds forced the vessel back into Salem,
where his father had been settled in the ministry in 1629 as the first
pastor of that church. The pulpit being vacant, he was persuaded to
settle there as the pastor, and was installed August 29th, 1660. He
continued until his death, December 9th, 1708, in the 93d year of his
age, after having been in the ministry 72 years. In his twenty years'
stay in the town he aided largely in forming the character of the com-
munity, and was respected both as a teacher and as a preacher.
The departure from Guilford of Reverend John Higginson marked
an ebbing period in the history of the church, and for several years
matters were in a confused condition. Reverend John Cotton, who
had married a daughter of Doctor Bryan Rossiter, was here part of
the time, as was also Reverend John Bowers, who was afterward the
pastor of the Derby church. A call was extended to Reverend In-
crease Mather in 1663, and the town was much elated at the prospect
of his acceptance; but he declined the call the next spring. In this
state of affairs some of the planters removed and the town suffered
in consequence.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 141
"After they had waded through these troublesome times Provi-
dence provided for them a pastor after God's own heart to feed them
with knowledge and understanding. For about the year 1664 or 1665,
the renowned Mr. Joseph Eliot, son of the famous and pious Mr. John
Eliot of Roxbury (the Indian New England Apostle) was called and
ordained to the pastoral office in this church." " The church and town
greatly flourished under his successful ministry. After this burning
and shining light had ministered to the good people about thirty
years, he deceased May 24th, 1694, to the inexpressible grief of his
beloved flock whose memory is not forgotten to this day."*
The Reverend Thomas Ruggles was settled as the next pastor
November 20th, 1695, " and after he had faithfully fed the flock, he
deceased June 1st, 1728, in the 34th year of his ministry and the 58th
year of his age." His son, Thomas Ruggles, Jr., succeeded him in
the pastorate March 26th, 1729. His accession was attended by an un-
fortunate disagreement which caused the formation of the Fourth
church. And yet Mr. Ruggles acquitted himself a careful, prudent
pastor, " a lover of good men and a friend to mankind." He died
November 19th, 1770. His powers having failed, Reverend Amos
Fowler was settled as his colleague June 8th, 1757, and after his death
became the pastor. He was also a native of Guilford, and graduated
from Yale in 1753. He died, greatly respected, February 10th, L800.
Reverend Israel Brainerd, of Haddam, was installed as the next pastor
June 11th, 1800, and was dismissed six years later. In this period
there was much unrest in the congregation and the spiritual life of the
church was very low. He could not yield himself to the demands of
his people, and after a vain effort to quicken them, left the town.
The church was now without a pastor six months, when, Decem-
ber 10th, 1806, Reverend Aaron Dutton was settled as the minister.
At the time he was installed there were less than thirty active mem-
mers, but so successful was his ministry of 36 years, that at its close,
June 8th, 1842. there were more than 400 members. He was a man of
marked character and ability, and " resigned his pastorate chiefly on
account of the difference of opinion between himself and many of his
congregation on the subject of negro slavery in the United States."
He left the parish for the sake of harmony, but the continued agitation
of the subject resulted in the organization of the present Third church.
It is to be regretted that efforts to unite the two churches, made after
the cause of the separation had been removed and forever settled,
have not been attended with more encouraging results. The united
congregations would constitute one grand and powerful church.
Since the pastorate of Mr. Dutton the following have been the
ministers : Reverend E. Edwin Hall, settled October 25th, 1843, dis-
missed July 24th, 1855, at his own request, to make a visit to Europe;
Henry Wickes, May 22d, 1856, to July 21st, 1858; William S. Smith. May
* Ruggles mss., 1769.
142 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
3d, 1859, to July 3d, 1865; Cornelius L. Kitchell followed the Reverend
E. Edwin Hall, who had supplied the pulpit, and was settled April
13th, 1870, resigned March 24th, 1873. October 4th, 1873, Reverend
Theodore L. Day became acting pastor, and remained until May 4th,
1876. The pulpit was now supplied by the Reverends H. R. Harris,
Andrew W. Archibald and George S. Thrall. January 2d, 1879, Rev-
erend Henry Fink became the acting pastor, until his death, Aug-
ust 27th, 1879. March 10th, 1S80, Reverend Frank H. Taylor was in-
stalled, and was dismissed September 3d, 1883, when Reverend S. M.
Keller supplied the pulpit. In May, 1884, Reverend E. M. Vittum was
here ordained, and was dismissed December 15th, 1888. On the 1st
of August, 1889, Reverend Charles H. Mcintosh became the supply
for one year, and continued in the summer of 1890.
In the town have been raised up as ministers, among others, the
following in the First Society: Tared Eliot, Timothy Cullins, Bela Hub-
bard, D.D., Thomas Ruggles, Timothy Stone, Thomas Ruggles, Jr.,
William Leete, Jr., Edwin H. Seward, Beriah Hotchkin, Henry Rob-
inson, S. W. Dutton, D. D., Henry L. Hall, Daniel Collins, Edmund
Ward, Samuel Johnson, D. D., William Seward, Andrew Fowler, Joy
H. Fairchild, Thomas Dutton, Theodore A. Leete, John H. Fowler,
Sherman Griswold, Martin Dudley, Edward C. Starr, John W. Starr.
From the North Guilford part have gone Nathaniel Bartlett, Amos
Fowler, Aaron C. Collins, Lyman Beecher, Angus B. Collins, Jared
Tyler, Abraham C. Baldwin, John E. Bray, Stephen A. Loper and
others.
Several new churches have from time to time been formed as off-
shoots from this church; the Congregational church of East Guilford,
now Madison, in 1703; the Congregational church in North Guilford,
in 1719; the church in Guilford called the Fourth church, in 1731, now
disbanded ; the Congregational church in North Bristol, now North
Madison, in 1757; and the Third Congregational church of Guilford, in
1843. The Episcopal church of Guilford, in 1743, and the Methodist
church of Guilford, in 1836, also received, at their organization, sev-
eral members from this church.
The members in 1S90 numbered 332, belonging to 185 families in
the parish.
The following were chosen and served as deacons of the church:
George Bartlett, 1664; John Fowler, 1664; John Graves, 1666; William
Johnson, November, 1673; John Meigs, 1696; Samuel Johnson, 1713;
James Hooker, 1702; Thomas Hall, 1727; William Seward, 1730; Tim-
othy Stone, 1742; Doctor Nathaniel Ruggles, 1751: Ebenezer Bartlett,
1765; John Burgis, November 2d, 1775; Thomas Burgis, November 5th,
1794; Samuel Chittenden, June 19th, 1799; Abraham Chittenden, July
2d, 1799; David Bishop, April 29th, 1802; Ambrose Leete, December 2d,
1807; Thomas Hart, March 29th, 1809; Anson Chittenden, March 29th,
1809; William Starr, December 3d, 1813; John B. Chittenden, October
HISTORY OF NEW EIAVEN COUNTY. 143
3d, 1823; Comfort Starr, August 30th, 1827; Jason Seward, August 30th,
1827; Abraham Dudley, August 30th, L827; Samuel Robinson, May 3d,
1832; Albert A. Leete, May 3d, 1832; Edward L. Leete, November 14th,
1852; Eli Parmelee, November 14th, 1852; "Edwin O. Davis, January
8th, 1871; -'John Graves, March 30th, 1877; -John W. Norton, March
30th, 1877; *E. Walter Leete, November 25th, 1883.
The North Guilford Congregational church was formally organized
in 1725. For a number of years the settlers of this part of the town
attended worship at Guilford village, going thither at much inconven-
ience. Application was then made for the means of winter preaching,
and in May, 1720, the general assembly incorporated the inhabitants
into a society ,f to enable them to build a meeting house at some suit-
able place in their midst. A plain house was put up in 1723, which
was, with repairs, made to do service until it was replaced by the
second or original part of the present house, built in 1814. This meet-
ing house has been materially changed, and the repairs at different
times have made it an inviting place. Its location is most charming,
being on a hill, overlooking the greater part of the North Guilford
section. Near by is a comfortable parsonage, and on the opposite side
is the new and attractive parish house. The latter reflects great credit
upon the enterprise, taste and forethought of the community. It was
carried to completion largely through the instrumentality of pastor
Frank R. Kahler and Augustus Bartlett, the latter donating $500 for
that purpose. Other generous friends contributed the balance, the
entire cost being about $1,600. The house has room for general church
and social meetings, a school room and a library. It was occupied in
the fall of 1888.
At the formal organization of the church, June Kith, 1725, Reverend
Samuel Russell became the pastor. He was a son of Reverend Samuel
Russell of the Branford church, and graduated from Yale in 1712. His
service as pastor continued until his death, January 19th, 1746, but as
the records of that period have not been preserved, it is not known
how largely he augmented the church membership.
After several years Reverend John Richards, of Waterbury, who
graduated from Yale in 1745, was ordained in November, 1748, and
was dismissed at his own request December, 1765. In his ministry 85
persons were added to the church.
The third pastor was Reverend Thomas Wells Bray, a native of
Branford. He graduated from Yale in 1765, was ordained pastor of
this church December, 1766, and died in the service of the parish April
23d, 1808. He was a pious, exemplary and successful preacher, and
167 members were admitted as the result of his labors.
Reverend William Fowler Vaill was ordained as the pastor Decem-
ber 21st, 1808, and served in that office until April 20th, 1820, when he
left to become a missionary in Arkansas. He graduated from Yale in
* Present deacons. t Known as the " Third Society in Guilford."
144 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
1S06, and here fitted quite a number of young men for that institution.
He also added about thirty persons to the church membership.
In September, 1821, Reverend Zolva Whitmore was settled in the
pastorate, and continued until August, 1846. Then, for several years,
the pulpit was supplied.
Reverend John L. Ambler was the acting pastor in 184S, and the
Reverend Henry Eddy served in the same way from January, 1849, to
March, 1851. Reverend Fosdic Harrison was the acting pastor from
November, 1851, to November, 1854, and in the summer of 1853 had
a good revival, eleven persons being added by profession of faith.
Reverend Abraham C. Baldwin was next the acting pastor, from De-
cember 1854, until October, 1S55. In this period the church edifice
was repaired.
Reverend Thomas R. Dutton began an acting pastorate December
9th, 1855, which was continued to Ma) 7 1st, 1859. In the spring and
summer of 1858 there was a notable revival, which added 24 to the
membership, and in all 37 were added during his pastorate.
Reverend Richard Chittenden began supplying the pulpit in July,
1859, was ordained to the pastorate August 1st, 1860, and dismissed in
1864. The next minister was Reverend William Howard, who was
installed December 20th, 1865, and who, after an acceptable ministry,
was dismissed in 1875.
Since that time the pulpit has been supplied or filled by acting
pastors, among them being the Reverends William B. Curtis, Frank
R. Kahler, until the fall of 1888; and since March, 1889, Reverend
Harry C. McKnight. At this time the church had on its rolls 118
members, 11 of whom lived outside of the town. The families in the
parish numbered 86, and an invested fund helped to support the Gos-
pel work.
From all accounts the deacons at the organization of the church
were George Bartlett and William Dudley. Subsequently those in
the deacon's office were: Theophilus Rossiter, Simeon Chittenden,
Selah Dudley, John Bartlett, Robert Griffiiig, Joel Rose, Levi Chit-
tenden, Timothy Rossiter, Benjamin Rossiter, William R. Collins,
Samuel W. Dudley, John R. Rossiter and M. L. Chittenden, the latter
being the clerk.
The Fourth Society in Guilford may here be appropriately noted.
The elder Ruggles, pastor of the First church, died in 1728, and was
succeeded in 1729 by his son, Thomas Ruggles, Jr. His settlement
gave cause for dissatisfaction to 29 of the 80 male communicants, who
protested that he was "not such a distinguishing, experimental and
animating preacher as they desired." They and others, more than
fifty in all, withdrew and set up separate worship, building a small
meeting house in 1730, on a lot facing the north end of the green,
after all efforts at reconciliation had failed. Although the dissent-
ients were but few in number, they were not without influence, and
HISTORY OF NEW KAVEN COUNTY. 145
succeeded, after several attempts, in being incorporated in 1733 as a
separate society, with the same bounds as the First society, in spite of
the vigorous protest of that body. They now had Reverend Edmund
Wood, who had preached for them as a candidate for the ministry, or-
dained September 21st, 1733, as their first pastor. Mr. Wood was a
native of the town, graduated from Yale in 1727, and served as pastor
until 1735, when he was dismissed and deposed by a council called for
that purpose. He subsequently became an Episcopalian, but never
took orders in that church. He died in 1779, aged 73 years.
The society was without a pastor for eight years, and being deter-
mined to maintain its organization, in spite of legislative and other
efforts to unite them to the parent society, ordained Reverend James
Sproat as its second pastor, August 23d, 1743. He was dismissed Octo-
ber 18th, 1768, and not long thereafter was installed over the Second
Presbyterian church of Philadelphia. His learning and ability secured
for him the title of D. D., which he fitly honored. He died in Phila-
delphia in the fall of 1798, himself, wife and several children being
victims of the yellow fever scourge.
The successor of Doctor Sproat at Guilford was Reverend Daniel
Brewer, who was settled as the pastor September 18th, 1771. In the
course of a few years he became a believer in the doctrines of the
Sandemanians, or that none but Christ and his apostles should be ad-
mitted as preachers, and of course no longer preached himself. He
was dismissed in 1775.
The last settled minister was Reverend Beriah Hotchkin, who was
ordained as pastor August 17th, 1785, and was dismissed in March,
1789, to become a missionary in the wilds of New York. He was a
native of the town, and from his boyhood was devoted to religious
thought.
After the removal of Mr. Hotchkin the Fourth church rapidly de-
clined, until but few members remained. In 1810, by legislative
enactment, sixteen members were returned to the First church, which
practically ended the existence of the Fourth society, which had for
so many years been an unhappy factor in the community; and thence-
forth, for manj' years, the First church was again supreme.
The following were elected as the deacons of the Fourth church:
1733, Samuel Cruttenden; 1740, Daniel Benton; 1755, Peletiah Leete
and Seth Morse; 1766, Daniel Leete; 1768, Joseph Bartlett; 1772, John
Davis; 1773, Peletiah Leete, 2d; 1776, John Hall; 1786, Ambrose Leete
and James Corwin.
The Third Congregational Church in Guilford is also an offshoot
of the First church. Toward the close of the pastorate of Reverend
Aaron Dutton the. congregation was much distracted and divided by
the agitation of the subject of American slavery, with a result that a
considerable proportion of those who were opponents of slavery with-
drew to form a separate congregation. These avowed friends of the
10
146 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
African slave, to the number of 123 persons, were organized as the
above body by an ecclesiastical council held in Guilford, November
23d, 1843.
It was at once determined to build a meeting house, and December
19th, 1843, William Hart, Jonathan Bishop, Samuel Seward, Jonathan
Parmelee and George Bartlett were appointed in behalf of the congre-
gation to carry on the work. The corner stone was laid July 17th,
1844, upon a lot on the east side of the green, which was secured with
some difficulty, as many citizens were opposed to the building (as they
called it) of " an abolitionist meeting house." However, the house
was rapidly pushed to completion, and was dedicated January 1st,
] ( S4o, when the first pastor was also installed. In the summer and fall
of 1862 this house was remodelled at a cost of $2,600. A suitable or-
gan was supplied in 1873, a chapel built in 1879, and an infant class
room added in 1880. More recent repairs have made this a comforta-
ble place of worship.
Reverend David Root, who became the first pastor, January 1st,
1845, was an experienced minister, and came to this church from the
First Congregational church at Waterbury. He gave the church faith-
ful service, and was relieved at his own request, April 6th, 1851. He
died in Chicago, 111., at the residence of his son-in-law, Horace White,
August 30th, 1873, aged 82 years, but was brought to Alderbrook cem-
etery for interment.
Reverend Richard Manning Chipman, the second pastor, was in-
ducted into that office January 14th, 1852, and remained until May
19th, 1858. He was an able preacher and writer, numerous publica-
tions bearing testimony to his skill and diligence. During the war
he was active in the interests of the freedmen.
The third pastor of the church, Reverend George I. Wood, was in-
stalled November 30th, 1858, and remained until October, 1867, when
physical ailment compelled him to resign.
Reverend George M. Boynton, the fourth pastor, was born in 1837,
in Brooklyn, N. Y., graduated from Yale in 1858, was installed pastor
of this church, June 24th, 1868, and was dismissed December 1st, 1872,
to become the pastor of a Congregational church in Newark, N. J.
The next and the present pastor, Reverend George W. Banks, was
here installed June 18th, 1874. His long pastorate has been peaceful
and prosperous. He was born in 1839, graduated from Yale in 1863,
and from its Theological Seminary in 1866, and prior to his settlement
at Guilford served the Bethlehem church.
In 1890 the parish of the Third church contained 213 families, and
there were 310 resident members. The Sabbath school had an average
attendance of 200 members, and Clifford F. Bishop was its superin-
tendent. Beverly Monroe was the church clerk, and George W. Hill
the treasurer.
Those elected as deacons have been the following: 1843, Asher
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 147
Dudley; 1844, Leverett Griswold; 1844, Julius A. Dowd; 1852, Alfred
G. Hull; 1877, James D. Hall; 1877, Henry E. Norton; 1880, Edwin A.
Leete, 1881, Lucius Dudley; 1881, Richard Bartlett; 1882, Calvin M.
Leete, 1883, George W. Hill. The three last named were the active
deacons in 1890.
Christ Church (Protestant Episcopal) had its origin in a society of
conformists to the Church of England, which was organized Septem-
ber oth, 1744, under the auspices of the London "Society for the
Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts." Among these conform-
ists living in the parish of the First society, were, in 1746, Samuel
Collins, Nathaniel Johnson, Edmund Ward, Ebenezer Bishop and John
Collins. About this time they voted to build a church, which was
raised in 1747, and consecrated in March, 1750, by Reverend Samuel
Johnson, of Stratford, a native of this town. The Liturgy of the
Church of England was now regularly employed, there being lay ser-
vices or preaching by missionaries of the above society — by Reverend
Ebenezer Punderson, and from 1764 until 1767 by Reverend Bela Hub-
bard, another native of the town, but serving as a missionary at New
Haven. He was born in 1739, and died highly respected, in 1812.
Other missionaries were Reverends Roger Viets, in 1770; Abraham
Jarvis, in 1773; Ashbel Baldwin, in 1790, and David Butler for a few
years after 1792. The preaching services were at long intervals, and
the membership consequently remained small.
In 1801 the church had its first rector in the person of Reverend
Nathan B. Burgess, who was at the same time the rector of the par-
ishes of Branford, North Guilford and Killingworth. His service con-
tinued until September, 1805. In November, 1806, Reverend David
Baldwin began preaching in all the foregoing parishes except Bran-
ford and became the settled minister in March, 1807, but was not or-
dained as the priest until April, 1809. After 1824 he confined his
labors almost wholly to the two parishes in Guilford until 1834, when
he resigned his rectorship of Christ church, but continued serving St.
John's, or North Guilford parish, in connection with the Zion parish
in North Branford and others, until 1851. At the beginning of his
ministry the church membership was greatly augmented and the par-
ish first began to assume the position which it has since retained among
other religious bodies of the town. Mr. Baldwin died in the 83d year
of his age and was buried in Alderbrook Cemetery. His grave is
marked by a monument: " Erected to his revered memory, in recog-
nition of his valued ministrations, by grateful parishioners and other
friends in Guilford and the adjoining parishes, where he officiated
more than half a century." For a quarter of a century he was the only
resident Episcopal minister on the sound shore between New Haven
and New London.
From July, 1834, until Easter, 1835, the parish had the entire serv-
ice of Reverend Lorenzo T. Bennett, when he resigned to become asso-
148 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ciated with Doctor Croswell, of the Episcopal church of New Haven.
Subsequently the ministers were: May, 1835, to October, 1835, Rever-
end William N. Hawks, who resigned on account of ill health; in
March, 1836, Reverend Levi H. Carson became the rector and served
the parish two years, when, in April, 1S38, Reverend Edward J.
Darken became the rector and also remained two years.
In the last two rectorates the present Christ church was built and
occupied. The old house on the green, which had been in use since
1750, had become unfitted by age and no longer served as a proper
place of worship. Early in 1836 the parish, which had at that time 67
communicant members, began to build the new church on a lot east
of the old house. The corner stone was laid June 24th, 1836, and
December 12th, 1838, the church was dedicated, when the old church
was removed from the green, and was the last building taken off that
public ground. The church was built in the Gothic style, of native
granite. 44 by 64 feet, and cost originally $7,500. In 1872 a recess
chancel was added and improvements made at a cost of $5,000 more,
which have made the church very attractive. It is also the most sub-
stantial in the eastern part of the county.
The rectorship of Reverend Lorenzo T. Bennett, D.D., was the most
important in the history of the parish. Born in 1805, he graduated
from Yale in 1825, and was ordained to the diaconate in 1834. He
became rector of Christ church July 12th, 1840, and continued solely
in charge until July 12th, 1880. He was then made rector emeritus by
order of the parish and so continued until his death. September 2d,
1889. He was thus, with his first service at this church, connected
with the parish more than fifty years, and was much revered for his
qualities of mind and goodness of heart, not only by his parishioners
but by the citizens in general. He died very suddenly at the railway
station, where he had gone to take passage on an early train.
On the 24th of April, 1881, Reverend William G. Andrews, D.D.,
became the rector of the parish and has in every way acquitted him-
self a worthy successor of Doctor Bennett. The affairs of the parish
remain in a prosperous condition, there being, in the fall of 1890, 110
families and 163 communicant members. The Sunday school had 108
members.
The parish has a fine fund for the promulgation of its work. Lega-
cies were given by Charles Collins, $1,000; William H. Hubbard,
$10,000; Franklin M. Hill, $300; and Captain William Tyler, $5,522..
The Hubbard bequest was not realized in full in consequence of
losses to his estate in Virginia during the rebellion.
The following have been wardens of the parish: 1799, Thomas
Powers, Charles Collins; 1820, Abraham Coan, Jedediah Lathrop; 1824,
Erastus C. Kimberley; 1825, Thomas Burgis; 1833, Henry Loper; 1840,
Thomas Burgis; 1854, John H. Bartlett; 1861, George A. Foote; 1863,
E. C. Kimberley; 1872-90, George B. Spencer; 1874, Henry Hale;.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 149
1876, George C. Kimberley; 1881, William Skinner; 1890, George S.
Davis.
George C. Griswold was the parish clerk from 1845 to 1889, when
John S. Elliott was elected.
St. John's Church (Protestant Episcopal) of North Guilford was
organized in 1747. There were at first but a few families conforming
to the church of England, but these were united, and in 1748 they
built a small, plain house of worship on the south slope of the hill,
about forty rods south of the present St. John's church. Here public
worship was statedly held by the ministers of the foregoing church.
In 1765 the male members — George Bartlett, John Hubbard, John
Fowler, Nehemiah Griswold, Abraham Hubbard, David Fowler, Jared
Scranton, Eber Hubbard, Abner Fowler, James Pelton and George
Bartlett — agreed to pay Reverend Bela Hubbard ,£20 for his services
as a minister part of a year; and these were probably the principal
early members of the church.
The old house having become dilapidated, a new one was begun in
1812, which was several years in building, and was consecrated June
7th, 1817, as St. John's church, by Bishop John Hobart, of New York.
About 1860 a chancel was added to the original building and the other
property of the parish was also thoroughly repaired, mainly through
the efforts of Reverend Oliver Hopson, then rector. In more recent
years the church building has again been modernized and has been
made fairly comfortable. The church has an attractive location and
in the same neighborhood is the rectory, on a tract of six acres of
land. This parish also has an endowment fund of several thousand
dollars. In 1890 there were 21 families and 45 communicant mem-
bers. A small Sunday school is also maintained.
Reverend David Baldwin was the beloved rector from 1809 until
1851, and was followed in 1853 by Reverend Alpheus Geer and later
by Oliver Hopson. The last rector was Reverend W. H. Dean, who
began in 1889 to serve this and the North Branford parish.
At this time George W. Dudley and Albert B. Potter were the
wardens, and P. K. Hoadley, E. W. Leete and Norris Hubbard the
vestrymen.
Among the early church officials were, in 1761, Jared Hubbard,
Ebenezer Talman and Nehemiah Griswold, committee; George Bart-
lett, Jr., parish clerk; in 1781, Nehemiah Griswold and Abraham Hub-
bard, church wardens; John Fowler, Sr„ George Bartlett and David
Fowler, vestrymen; in 1789, Abraham Hubbard and Jared Scranton,
wardens.
The Guilford Baptist Church was organized in 1808. Baptist ser-
vices were first held some time after 1800, by Reverend John Gano
Whitman, of Groton, who occasionally preached in the town. This
led to the organization, June 30th, 1808, of the above church. There
were 19 constituent members, some of whom withdrew from the
150 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Pirsl Congregational church, and others had been members of the
dissolved Fourth society. The meetings were held in the old acad-
. 1,1 building. February 24th, 1823, Alvah B. Goldsmith was or-
dained as the first regular pastor, and at the same time his father,
foshua Goldsmith, was ordained as the first deacon. These appear
to li.iv been the <>n]y prominent officials of the society, which never
became strong. Its maximum membership (36 ) was reached in 1826,
and tin reafti i the church declined until its dissolution took place
I" for< 1840 Elder Goldsmith remained in the town and was a
much respected and trusted citizen. In the latter years of his life
In professions were those of a Quaker. He died in June, 1863.
The Methodist I Episcopal Church was organized about 1838. It is
probable thai [esse Lee preached the first Methodist sermon in the
tow n I te held a meeting in the house of Ebenezer Hopson, on Bos-
ton street, as early as 1 789. In 1811 Bishop Asbury also visited Guil-
ford and preached here, but no attempt was made to form a church
until man) years later. The efforts which led to an organization were
made by Reverend Nathan Kellogg, who preached a number of times
in the private houses of such as were favorable to the movement. In
1886 Reverend Charles Chittenden was assigned to this place by the
New N erk Conference, and his missionary labors and the fruits of a
revival, in the winter of 1837 8, enabled him to organize the present
church. He was a very devoted, energetic man. and began the build-
Ing of a house o( worship on a lot secured on the west side of the
green, William Hale offered to donate the timber, and Mr. Chitten-
den led some of his members in the work of preparing the material,
and helped to fell the first tree. In IS^S he was succeeded by Rever-
end llart P, Pease, during who-. the h< . - is com] -ted
and dedicated. It was originally .. frame house. 36 by 48 feet, but its
app< ebeenchang The first board of
trustees was composed of John Hale, William Hale. Henry Griffin,
uel 1 eete, Samuel A. Barker. Lucius Elliott, F. C, Phelps and A.
S cceeding Mr. Pease amongol i - . ore IS50, came Reverend
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152 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
half of the Sabbath. He lived at the southwest corner of the green,
and was in Guilford from 1641 until 1659. Tuition was reckoned at
the rate of 4 shillings per quarter for " each child put to school."* A
school house was built on the green as early as 1645, which was dis-
placed by a new one in 1671. Both were very plain. Until after 1700
the town had but this one school house, but others were built soon
after. In 1702 the " East Farmers " were given liberty to have a school,
and the same privilege was given the " North Farmers," not many
years later, after that section was settled.
After Mr. Higginson left the town, other teachers were employed,
a few only remaining for more than several years. These were paid
salaries of from £20 to £30 per year. Among other teachers who
were appointed were: In 1671, Matthew Bellamy; 1675, Jonathan Pit-
man; 1682, John Collins; 1690, Thomas Higginson; 1694, Mr. Elliott;
1700, John Collins; 1701, Captain Andrew Ward; 1706, James Elliott;
1720, Doctor William Johnson; and thence for about three-quarters of
a century the Johnson family supplied the teachers.
The state of Connecticut adopted the district system in 1794, and
under this plan the town was divided into more than one district. In
the period about 1800 four schools were at the village. These occu-
pied one building, standing on the green, and were not in four separ-
ate school houses, on that plot of ground, as may be inferred from the
account of President Dwight on his visit to this part of the county.
About 1830 this building was removed from the green to its present
site on the North Guilford turnpike.
In 1824 the Lancasterian system was applied to the schools, and
continued five years. Under this method all the schools in the village
were taught in the town house. In the meantime an academy or
select school was taught in the old school house, among the teachers
being AlvanTalcott and Samuel Robinson. In 1829 the village public
school was divided into four classes, of which the highest, or academic,
was taught from 1831 to 1834, by R. D. Smith. He was followed by
Luman Whedon, Julius N. Dowd and others. In 1837 the village part
of the town was divided into four sections and school houses built for
their accommodation. The northwest section used the academy. A
part of the building was occupied by a Mr. Dudley for his high school
in 1838 and later. Schools of this nature continued to be taught until
the Guilford Institute supplanted them.
In the course of time the four districts at the Center and another
near by were merged into a "Union" district. In 1890 there were in
the town, including the Union district, in all ten districts, in which
there were 512 children of school age. From this number 322 pupils
*An effort was made in 1660 to establish a grammar school in the jurisdiction
of New Haven, in order that "learning might be promoted as a means for the
fitting of instruments for publique service in church and commonwealth." To
encourage this plan, which at that time failed, the inhabitants of Guilford offered
the Whitfield stone house as a seat for the school.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 153
were secured. The schools are maintained at a cost of nearly $5,000
per annum, half of which is raised by town taxation. In the North
Guilford part of the town there are four schools, viz.: The North, the
South, the Bluff and the Center. These have an attendance of about
75 pupils. The school at the Center has been graded. The Leete's
Island school had an enrollment of 40 pupils. At this time the school
visitors were: Henry R. Spencer, Henry M. Rossiter, Daniel R. Spen-
cer, Reverend W. G. Andrews, Jerome Coan, L. A. Kimberley, Doctor
G. H. Beebe, Reverend G. W. Banks and Reverend L. T. Bennett.
The latter resigned June 11th, 1889, after having served the cause of
education in this town about half a century.
The Guilford Institute was erected and endowed through the
munificence of Mrs. Sarah Griffing, the widow of Hon. Nathaniel Grif-
fing, and Hon. Simeon B. Chittenden, of Brooklyn, N. Y. The former
deeded the land on which to build the institute, near " Ephraim's
Rocks," in the northwestern part of the village, August 21st, 1854, and
also gave the sum of $10,000. The latter set aside $10,000 for an en-
dowment fund. October 12th, 1855. Mrs. Griffing stipulated that the
ministers of the First Congregational church should be members of
the board of trustees, cx-officio, and that while the school should be
non-sectarian, that " the Bible should always be used in said school
as the foundation of all education for usefulness and happiness."
The first board of trustees was incorporated in August, 1854, and
was composed of Reverend E. Edwin Hall, Henry W. Chittenden,
Ralph D. Smith, Abraham C. Baldwin, Sherman Graves, Simeon
B. Chittenden and Alvan Talcott. The latter continuously served
until 1890. Others associated with him on the board at that time were
Reverends George W. Banks and C. H. Mcintosh, E. Walter Leete,
Henry D. Coan, Samuel B. Chittenden and Charles Griswold.
The corner stone of the building was laid September 13th, 1854,
and a year later the substantial stone structure was ready for occu-
pancy. The first term of the institute was opened September 3d, 1855,
with appropriate public exercises, and Eli T. Mack as the first princi-
pal. There was considerable interest in the school, and in the first
years of its existence the attendance was very good, not only from
Guilford, but from the surrounding towns. Among the pupils thus
coming from Madison was an active, promising youth, who became
distinguished as W. H. H. Murray. The institute appears to have
served its purpose in the first twenty years, and since 1875 has been
occupied as the high school of the town, an arrangement to that end
having been made with the trustees.
The principals of the school have been the following, in the order
of their appointment : 1855, Eli T. Mack; 1S58, Augustine Hart; I860,
J. Wilson Ward; 1862, Henry S. Barnum; 1863, Joseph L. Daniels; 1864,
Winthrop D. Sheldon; 1865, W. A. Ayres; 1866, Edwin H. Wilson; 1867,
James P. Hoyt; 1869, F. S. Thompson; 1871, Charles E. Gordon; 1872,
154 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
John P. Slocum; 1875, Jairus P.Moore; 1879, Melville Stone; 1880,
Charles H. Levermore; 1883, W. H. Buell; 1884, Carll A. Lev/is; 1887,
Hart Lewis; 1888, Charles L. Wallace; 1889, Arthur M. Hyde.
" The people of Guilford have always been well educated, and
the Triennial Catalogue of Yale University counts over 160 names
of Guilford men; while part of the college was situated in the old
town in its early years, when the tutors, John Hart, of Madison,
and Samuel Johnson, of Guilford, lived at home and had their classes
with them."*
The cause of education had a valuable adjunct in the public
libraries which were early established. In 1737 some of the inhabi-
tants of Guilford and others living in the towns on the east formed a
library which was quite valuable in those days. When the company
was dissolved, before 1800, the library contained about 400 volumes,
having among them a number of standard and valuable books. A
new library was now formed in Guilford village, to which some of the
books of the old library were transferred. Another library was soon
after formed by the young people of the same community and in May,
1823, these were united to form the Union Library. In 1838 it had
600 volumes. Not many years thereafter, for want of proper care, it
went down and for many years the remaining books were stored in an
old loft. In 1880 they were removed and incorporated with the Insti-
tute Library.
In 1760 a public library was formed in North Guilford, which was
nearly destroyed by fire in 1794. New books were added until there
were 185 volumes. In 1838 only about 100 books remained and the
library was soon after dissolved. In 1887 a Young People's Literary
Society was formed, which raised funds for another library. In the
fall of 1890 it contained about 200 volumes and was kept at the house
of Mrs. Scranton.
The North Guilford select school, taught many years in a small
building which stood in the new addition to the cemetery, served a
noble purpose after 1800 and for about fifty years. John E. Chandler,
who afterward became a missionary to India, was one of the teachers.
Deacon John R. Rossiter taught for twenty years. The building was
removed in 1876.
Not a few treasures in the literary storehouses of this country
were gathered or contributed by inhabitants or descendants of the
founders of Guilford in periods reaching from the settlement to the
present time. One of the latter class+ quaintly says: " Guilford was
born with a book in her hand," and gives the credit of the first author-
ship to the founder and leader of the Guilford colony, the Reverend
Henry Whitfield. Some of his sermons and letters were published, as
* Bernard C. Steiner.
+ Henry P. Robinson (of Reverend Henry Whitfield, 1639) in his discourse on
Literature in Madison and Guilford, anniversary 1889.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 155
were also the sermons on important subjects cf Reverends John Hig-
ginson, Joseph Eliot and John Cotton, his successors as ministers of
the First church.
Reverend Jared Eliot, son of Reverend Joseph, who preached in
Killingworth, but who followed the art of agriculture in Guilford, was
a pioneer writer in a field which has since been extensively covered.
Beginning in 1747, he wrote a series of "Essays upon Field Husbandry
in New'England," which proved very popular and brought to his
acquaintance and friendship scientists of this and foreign countries.
He died in 1763. One of his pupils was Reverend Samuel Johnson, a
very bright, witty and learned man. In 1767 he published a small
Hebrew grammar, and some of his other books were issued at an
earlier day. He was born in Guilford in 1696, and after graduating
from Yale College in 1714, he was for several years one of its tutors
and had his classes in the town. Becoming a minister of the estab-
lished church, he later became a Churchman and a profound theolo-
gian. He was elected the first president of Columbia College. He
died in 1772.
Another bright man of that period was Reverend Thomas Rug-
gles, Jr. In addition to the publication of some of his sermons his
authorship embraced a manuscript history of Guilford up to 1769,
most of which has been printed. He died in 1770.
Other ministers of the town who contributed to the literary life
in the periods in which they lived, were the following: Reverend
Jonathan Todd, of the Madison Society, in 1749; John Eliot, of the
same society, in 1810 and earlier, who was a very scholarly man;
David Dudley Field, born in Madison in 1781, graduated from Yale
in 1802, and who died in 1867, author of a number of books on local
history and other works; Aaron Dutton published a notable sermon
in 1815; Abraham Chittenden Baldwin, born in North Guilford in
1804, died in 1887, was the author, among other admirable works,
of a prize essay, " Letters to a Christian Shareholder," published in
1857; S. W. S. Dutton, born in Guilford in 1814, and who deceased
in 1866, was a prolific writer on theological and contemporary sub-
jects; Samuel Fiske, of Madison, who died in the army May 22d, 1864,
wrote letters for the press as "Dunn Browne," which were "as graphic,
genial and bright as the man himself."*
A number of laymen also gave expression to rich literary thoughts
which entertained and ennobled. Among those of minor nature may
be noted the Nortons, Elijah and Colonel Rufus, the latter being a
writer of short hymns and poems, which did not pass out of the manu-
script state; John P. Foote, of Cincinnati, a native of the town, was
a clear writer and biographer.
Ralph D. Smith, a lineal descendant of John Smith, who came to
Milford in 1640, was born in Southbury in 1804, graduated from Yale in
* Robinson.
156 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
1827, was admitted to the bar in 1831, in November of which year he
came to Guilford, where he died September 11th, 1874. Besides being
a lawyer of good reputation and practice extended beyond the limits
of his village, he was an industrious and painstaking author. He wrote
sketches of the graduates of Yale College from 1702 to 1767, and other
sketches pertaining to the university, of which institution his sons,
Walter H. and Richard E., were also graduates in 1863 and 1866, re-
spectively. His researches in the local history of Guilford have been
very valuable. After his death some of his manuscripts on Guilford
were published.
Doctor Alvan Talcott also prepared a valuable genealogy of the
citizens of Guilford. In May, 1890, his manuscripts embraced 30,000
names, 1,700 belonging to the Norton family. He noted 100 families
fully and 78 more not so completely. This exhaustive work was do-
nated to Yale College, from which the doctor graduated in 1824, and
from the medical department in 1831.
The town has produced several poets of national reputation. The
foremost of these, Fitz-Greene Halleck, occupied a position which
brought him the honor of having the first bronze statue in a public
place erected to the memory of an American poet. This figure, of
heroic size, is in Central Park, New York, near the statues of Shakes-
peare and Sir Walter Scott.
Fitz-Greene Halleck was the son of Israel and Mary (Eliot) Hal-
leck, and was born in Guilford, July 8th, 1790. When but a lad his
poetic nature found expression in verses of promise and merit, which
are still extant. At the age of 15 he became a grocer's clerk at Guil-
ford, and so continued until 1811. He then went to New York and
entered the banking house of Jacob Barker, also as a clerk. Visiting
Europe in 1822, he formed the acquaintance of many literary men of the
Old World. In 1832 he entered the service of John Jacob Astor, and
in his banking house he remained until Astor's death, in 1848. He
received an annuity of $200 from the elder Astor, to which was added
a gift of $10,000 by William B. Astor. In 1849 Halleck returned to
Guilford, where he continued to reside until his death, November 19th,
1867. For many years his home was in the old house opposite the
southwest corner of the green, and he was a well known personage to
many of the present' inhabitants of the village, where he was beloved
as much as he was admired abroad.
George Hill, a brother poet, was born in Guilford, January 29th,
1796. After graduating from Yale College, in 1816, he was in public
service at home and abroad until about 1856, when he retired to
private life, taking up his residence at Guilford, where he died De-
cember 15th, 1871. At that time his volume of short poems had
passed several editions. They were carefully written and show fine
poetic taste. In the last years of his life Mr. Hill was very unobtru-
sive and retired in his habits, but his gentle manners caused him to be
much esteemed.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 157
Abraham Bradley, 3d, who was born in Guilford, December 11th,
1731, and who in the latter years of his life was a deputy postmaster
general, was also a poet of some merit, and his verses on pioneer life
in Guilford are fairly descriptive and entertaining of a period which
always awakens interest.
Many of the settlers of the town and their descendants became dis-
tinguished in civil and other avocations of life. Samuel Disbrowe or
Disborough, who came with Whitfield, a young man of 24, was one of
the "seven pillars" of the church, and served as magistrate of the
plantation from 1643 until 1651. In the latter year he returned to
England, where he became one of the principals in the Cromwell ac-
cession, and held many important trusts in England and Scotland. He
died in the latter country in 1690.
Another of the " seven pillars," Reverend John Hoadley, while not
so active in civil affairs, became noted after his return to England, as
the ancestor of two of the most distinguished prelates of their times.
In 1642 he was married in Guilford to Sara, daughter of Francis Bush-
nell, one of the foremost of Guilford's planters, and their grandsons
John and his brother Benjamin, attained the highest ecclesiastical
honors.
The male descendants of Francis Bushnell were prominent in every
generation in the ordinary walks of life;- and another daughter, Eliza-
beth, married William Johnson, another of the leading planters. Their
son, Samuel, was the father of the Reverend Samuel Johnson. D. D.,
who was the president of King's (Columbia) College, from 1754 until
1763. His son, William Samuel Johnson, was the first United States
senator under the national confederation, serving from 1789 until 1791.
He was also one of the most learned men of his times. The Univer-
sity of Oxford conferred upon him the degree of D. D.
William Chittenden was another of the foremost planters of Guil-
ford, and being a brother-in-law of Whitfield, had one of the choicest
locations on the Menuncatuc river, in the northwestern part of the
first settlement, which is still owned by descendants. He was the
military leader of the community, and also held civil offices. One of
his grandsons, Ebenezer, married a sister of Reverend Samuel John-
son, and settled in Madison. Their eldest son, also called Ebenezer,
moved to New Haven, where he became a mechanic of great skill. A
younger son, Thomas, born in 1730, at the age of 20 left his paternal
home and removed to Salisbury, and in 1774 to the Onion River local-
ity in Vermont. He was elected the first governor of that state in
1778, and continued to hold that office 18 years. He died in 1797. Sub-
sequently his son, Martin, twice occupied that office. Of the Chitten-
den stock which remained on the Guilford homestead, Simeon B.Chit-
tenden was a descendant. He was born March 9th, 1814, and remov-
*Cornelius S. Bushnell, a native of Madison, was instrumental in furnishing
Captain Ericsson the means to complete his monitor in use in the civil war.
158 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
ing to New York, became one of the merchant princes of the metrop-
olis. His benefactions in the town and the county are well known.
Through his liberality the erection of the fine library building on
Yale campus, lately occupied, was made possible.
The Leete family has ever been one of the most important in the
annals of Guilford. The first of that name and one of the founders of
the town, rose to the rank of a colonial statesman, and was a worthy
peer of Thomas Hooker and John Winthrop, Jr., in the early history
of Connecticut. William Leete was born of a good family, in 1613,
and was, therefore, 26 years of age when he came to Guilford. He
was bred to the law, and was a clerk in the Bishop's Court in Eng-
land. In the old country he was a neighbor of Disborough, and suc-
ceeded him here as the first magistrate. He was chosen deputy gov-
ernor of the New Haven colony from 1658 to 1661, when he was
chosen governor of that colony, serving until the union with Connecti-
cut in 1665. Four years later he was elected deputy governor of the
united colonies, in which office he served until 1676. He was then
elected governor and was reelected until his death in 1683. He thus
served in a magisterial capacity forty years, and was one of the best
trusted men in the colony. He was buried at Hartford, and his grave
was for a long time unknown, but was discovered about 1830, in the
ancient burial ground of that place.
He left a numerous family in Guilford, and his eldest son, John,
who died November 25th, 1692, is said to have been the first white
child born in the town. Another son, Andrew, was active in the
management of the affairs of the colony and the town. He was mar-
ried to a daughter of Thomas Jordan, Esq., and after the return of his
father-in-law to England, about 1660, lived on his estate, on the north-
west corner of the green. It is said that he here kept for a time the
charter of the colony, which he was instrumental in recovering, in
the period when Major Andross had usurped the government.
The Guilford home of Governor William Leete was opposite the
Chittenden place, on the east bank of the West river, where he had a
store or warehouse, in the cellar of which he secreted the Judges
Whalley and Goffe, some time between June 11th and June 20th, 1660.
They spent about a week here and at Mr. Rossiter's, being supplied
with victuals from the governor's table. This property passed to Caleb
Stone in 1714, was long owned by Timothy Stone, and is now the
property of Leverett C. Stone. The old store building has long since
disappeared, but the cellar in which the judges were hidden remains
practically as built, and is now covered by a barn. In other parts of
the town descendants of William Leete remain, and his name has
been ineffaceably affixed to the southwestern part of Guilford.
Doctor Bryan Rossiter came to Guilford in 1651, upon the depart-
ure of Samuel Disborough, whose large estate he purchased. As
Leete was the first lawyer, so he was the first physician, and like his
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 159
professional neighbor, was a man of great force of mind and character.
He was, moreover, a physician of ability, and it is claimed that he
made the first post mortem,ihat is a matter of record, in Connecticut, in
Hartford, in 1662.* Doctor Rossiter was very warmly interested in
bringing about the union of the Connecticut colonies in 1665, and his
action in this matter caused offense to some of the New Haven colon-
ists. He died at Guilford September 30th, 1672. His son, Josiah Ros-
siter, who died in 1716, was actively interested in the affairs of the
town and the county. A daughter married John Cotton, and their
descendants became distinguished in Massachusetts affairs. Descend-
ants of the Rossiter family have remained in the town, and have
always held an honored place in the estimation of the inhabitants.
Samuel Baldwin, the blacksmith, was the founder of another fam-
ily, which is greatly esteemed in the town and especially honored in
North Guilford, from which have gone some of its best representa-
tives. He was the ancestor of Abraham Baldwin, who was born in
North Guilford, November 6th, 1754. Graduating from Yale College
in 1772, he was a tutor from 1775 to 1779. He studied theology, and
was a chaplain in the continental army several years. In 17S4, at the
request of his friend, General Greene, he removed to Georgia, was
admitted to the bar, and was elected a member of the continental con-
gress. As a member from Georgia of the constitutional convention,
in 1787, he drafted the constitution, which was finally adopted, and
has been called the "Father of the Constitution." He was also instru-
mental in founding the University of Georgia, having been placed at
the head of the system of education in 17S5. He died at Washington,
March 4th, 1807, as a United States senator from Georgia. His
brother, Henry, became a distinguished justice of the United States
supreme court; and their sis'er was the wife of Joel Barlow, the author
and diplomat at the French court.
Doctor Stephen C. Bartlett was another brilliant native of North
Guilford, where he was born April 19th, 1839. He was thoroughly
educated in the medical profession, and after practicing at Naugatuck
settled at Waterbury, where he died at the early age of 40 years, but
not before he had given abundant evidence of his great medical skill.
James Hooker, Esq., the first judge of the probate court, was a son-
in-law of William Leete, Esq. He lived in the town about 40 years,
dying in 1740. His successor, Colonel Samuel Hill, who was one of
the principal public men of his time, was then elected judge, and
served in that position until his death in 1752. He was also for a time
judge of the county court. His son, Nathaniel, and grandson, Henry,
also became eminent in public affairs. So also were Colonel Timothy
Stone, General Andrew Ward, Nathaniel Griffing, etc., who enjoyed
the highest honors in the gift of the town. In the same connection
may be given the name of General Augustus Collins, who had been
* Colonial Records, Vol. I., p. 396.
160 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
in the revolution. He served in 64 consecutive sessions of the legisla-
ture of the state, before 1813. His sister, Lorain, married Oliver Wol-
cott, the first secretary of state under President Washington, and who
was one of Connecticut's signers of the declaration of independence,
and afterward governor of the state.
Among other notable men, as natives who attained distinction else-
where, was Doctor David Dudley Field, born in Madison in 1771, son
of Captain Timothy Field of the revolutionary army. He was the
father of the famous Field sons, David Dudley, Cyrus West, Stephen
and Henry Martyn, all of them men of national reputation. Doctor
Bela Hubbard, born in Guilford in 173!), became a distinguished Epis-
copal minister in the county, dying in New Haven in 1812. Reverend
Andrew Fowler, born in 1765, became an Episcopal missionary, and
died at Charleston, S. C, in 1851. The names of other and later public
men are found in the civil lists of the town and county.
The physicians of the town have been the following:
At Guilford village.— Doctor Bryan Rossiter, died at Guilford Sep-
tember 30th, 1672.
Doctor Anthony Lahore, died at Guilford March 19th, 1712.
Doctor Nathaniel Ruggles, died at Guilford 1794, as. 82 years.
Doctor John Redfield, born at Guilford 1818, ae. 78 years.
Doctor Thomas Ruggles Pynchon, died at Guilford 1796, ae. 36
years.
Doctor Jared Redfield, died at Guilford 1821, ae. 50 years.
Doctor Seth H. Rogers, died at Guilford 1807, se. 35 years.
Doctor Lewis Collins, removed.
Doctor David Marvin, removed, 1811.
Doctor Elias Shipman, removed to New Haven.
Doctor Lyman Strong, removed to Hebron.
Doctor Anson Foote, died at Guilford 1841, as. 57 years.
Doctor Joel Canfield, died at Guilford 1877. Had located in North
Guilford in 1824 and in Guilford village 1825.
Doctor Elias Hutchinson, located 1838, removed 1849.
Doctor Alvan Talcott, graduated from Yale, Medical Department,
1831, located at Guilford in 1841; was in active practice until 1886,
when he was one of the oldest physicians in the county. He died Jan-
uary 17th, 1891, in his 87th year.
Doctor Gideon Perry Reynolds located in 1870, and still continues
in practice.
Doctor Frederick P. Griswold was in practice from 1878 to 1883;
Doctor Charles H. Hamilton from 1883 to 1886; Doctor George H.
Beebe located in 1886, and continues in practice; so also does Doctor
H. I. Fisk, an eclectic physician.
At North Guilford were, at different times after 1800, the following:
Doctor David Brooks, removed to New York, where he died, in
January, 1826.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 161
Doctor Samuel Fitch, died August 8th, 1847, aged 71 years.
Doctor Joel Canfield, from 1824 until 1825.
Doctor George Kirtland, died 1825, aged 25 years.
Doctors Julius Willard, Richard Dennison and Justin W. Smith
removed after short periods of practice.
After the death of Doctor Rossiter, and for about 50 years later,
the town purchased medicines and distributed them out of the com-
mon stock. July 3d, 1679, a meeting was held to consider whether the
inhabitants would buy " Mrs. Cosster's physic and physical drugs,"
" and was answered by a unanimous vote that they would buy them."
Subsequently, August 28th, 1679, " Lieut. William Seward was chosen
and appointed to fetch or procure the Physic and Physical drugs bought
of Mrs. Cosster, brought to Guilford and deliver them into the hands
of Mr. Joseph Elliott for the town's use."
The mortality was at first not great, and there were for many years
no epidemic diseases. Later the death rate was greater, being about
one death to every 69 persons in the course of a year.
The staid habits of the people of the town, with its fixed popula-
tion, gave little occasion, the first 150 years, for the employment of a
lawyer. Ralph D. Smith was one of the first after William Todd to
devote himself almost exclusively to the legal profession. He settled
in Guilford in November, 1831, and remained in the town until his
death, in 1874. Previous to that time Edward R. Landon, who had
read law with him, was also a practicing attorney, and was thus en-
gaged until his death, in 18S3. H. Lynde Harrison lived in the town
a number of years, but his practice was mainly in New Haven. Will-
iam Kelsey, after being here a while, removed to Cheshire. Edwin
C. Woodruff died in the town in May, 1886, and Hollis T. Walker has
since been the attorney.
While the people of the town were not warlike, provision for de-
fense was early made. A train band was organized, which had in 1665
William Seward as its captain; George Bartlett, as lieutenant; and
Samuel Kitchell, ensign. At that time the town stock of ammunition
was reported as 140 pounds of powder and 235 pounds of lead. In 1672
the "town's arms were mended " by a mechanic, who came from Hart-
ford for that purpose, so as to be ready in case of Indian attack. Up
to this time there had been but little fear on account of the local In-
dians, and there never was any hostility between them and the whites.
The danger apprehended was from Indian incursions.
In the period of King Philip's war the town was active. In 1676
it voted to fortify two houses, and all males over fourteen years of age
were pressed into the work of speedily building them. The town
voted " that all damage to housing by enemies shall be borne and
made good by the towne in generall;" and also voted " to grant tenn
acres of land to every soldier from Guilford " serving under Major
11
162 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
Robert Treat and Mr. John Talcott. It thus anticipated the bounty
land warrant system of the United States.
In 1690 Reverend Mr. Eliot's house was again fortified, and it was
voted that " the great guns be set up on carriages and fitted for ser-
vice." In 1697 these guns or cannon were desired by Connecticut, but
the town refused to give them up, " as they wanted them for their own
defense against the common enemy." They were finally sold in 1739.
But a company of artillerists has almost continually been a feature of
the military life of Guilford. In the present century there was a com-
pany of " Flying Artillery," of which Joel Griswold was the captain.
In the rebellion 36 men were in the First Light Artillery of Connec-
ticut Volunteers. Since the war a section of artillery has been main-
tained in the town, which has been united with the platoon in Bran-
ford in forming a company — Battery A — of which, in 1890, Arthur S.
Fowler, of Guilford, was the captain.
In 1705 a train band was formed in East Guilford, and in 1728
another at North Guilford.
In 1745 Colonel Andrew Ward, of Guilford, commanded a company
at Louisburg, in which were some Guilford men; and in the expedition
at Fort William Henry, Oliver Dudley and Nathaniel Johnson had
companies of Guilford soldiers.
In the second French war there were also two companies of Guil-
ford men, commanded by General Andrew Ward, son of the above
Colonel Andrew Ward, and Colonel Ichabod Scranton, of East Guil-
ford, and were at the battle of Lake George. It is said that an Indian
picket attached to the Guilford troops found the wounded Baron
Dieskau and carried him as a prisoner into the English lines. In
this excursion Enos Bishop, of North Madison, served as a lieutenant.
In the war for independence Guilford took a patriotic position, a
few only adhering to the cause of the royalists. The acts of the con-
tinental congress were endorsed as early as December, 1774. The fol-
lowing spring 45 men, under Colonel Noah Fowler, and 23 under En-
sign Jehiel Meigs, held themselves ready to move after the alarm at
Lexington. General Ward was at Valley Forge with some Connecti-
cut troops, and others of Guilford's sons distinguished themselves on
fields of battle elsewhere.
From the fall of 1776 until the close of the war the town main-
tained a watch upon its coast, a guard of 24 men being set nightly, and
received but little aid from the state. In 1777 a bounty of £\0 was
voted to soldiers enlisting for three years, and this offer was thrice re-
newed later. In 1779 these bounties and other taxes caused the rate
to be five shillings on the pound, payable in such things as the select-
men might deem necessary.
Some of the movements of the war were performed on Guilford
soil. " May 29th, 1777, Col. Return J. Meigs, of Guilford stock, led an
expedition from Sachem's Head in three sloops and thirteen whale
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 163
boats. In twenty-four hours, with one hundred and seventy men, he
crossed the Sound to Sag Harbor; broke up a depot of the British there,
destroying much property; took ninety-six prisoners without losing a
man; and returned safely to Sachem's Head. For this service Congress
voted him a sword."*
The British, however, soon retaliated. On the 17th of June follow-
ing a party from three ships landed at Sachem's Head and burned the
house of Solomon Leete and two barns. In the following December
the house of Timothy Shelley was burned. But the most serious at-
tack was made at Leete's Island June 18th, 1781. A party of British
and tories, in all about 150 men, from two brigs and a schooner, landed
at that point, burned the guard house built by Deacon Pelatiah Leete
and a house and barns of Daniel Leete. They now made a movement
toward the village of Guilford, but were met by the company of Cap-
tain Peter Vail, who took shelter behind rocks and fences and opened
a spirited attack. Captain Vail became exhausted from the heat and
soon afterward died from the effects. The Guilford men, under com-
mand of Lieutenant Timothy Field, succeeded in driving the enemy
to its boats, with the loss of several men. Simeon Leete and Ebenezer
Hart were mortally wounded.
The last incursion of the British was made near the East Wharf, in
Madison, in 1782. The militia, under Captain Phineas Meigs, suc-
ceeded in repelling their advance, but not until Captain Meigs had
been killed. He was shot through the head.
In 1783 Samuel Lee, Jr., who had been a lieutenant in the Guilford
company, was commissioned its captain and the company became a
part of the 2Sth Regiment.
In the summer of 1780 a young man by the name of Tucker worked
as a farm hand for Deacon Daniel Leete, who resided at Leete's Island.
In the fall he left, but received the idea (probably a correct one) that
Deacon Leete had considerable money. About this time marauding
parties from within the British lines were in the habit of plundering
along the coast; consequently all the inhabitants able to bear arms
were enrolled as a coast guard and detailed in squads of from ten to
fifteen, under a sergeant, and stationed at different exposed points as
a protection to the inhabitants. Leete's Island was one guard station,
but no guard had been regularly kept there during Tucker's stay.
After he left a small guard was maintained at the guard house, and a
sentry stood at his post every night, though the season was so far ad-
vanced that no one expected an enemy. About 3 o'clock one morning
near the last of October, a boat with about a dozen armed men landed
at a little harbor about half a mile west of Deacon Leete's house, where
an old man was making salt. They inquired if a guard was kept at
the guard house. He told them he believed not; so they compelled
the old man to go with them to find Deacon Leete's. When they ar-
*Bernard C. Steiner.
164 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
rived they stationed part of their number at the west kitchen door,
while others endeavored to find the front door. The party at the
kitchen door knocked loudly for admittance and Ambrose, one of the
deacon's sons, ran to the door and opened it, to learn the cause of the
disturbance One of the gang made a blow at him with a cutlass, but
it being dark he struck too high, and the casing over the door received
the force of the blow, though his neck received a slight incision. As
he drew back another of the party fired his gun at him, the ball pass-
ing under his arm and lodging in the wall. The report alarmed the
guard and they turned out. The enemy heard them and drew off some
eight or ten yards for consultation. In the meantime the sentry, who
had been dozing in the deacon's wood pile, awoke and hearing some
talking, listened a moment and heard a voice, which he recognized as
Tucker's, say, " You may do as you please, I'll be d d if I go till I
make Deacon Leete's money jink." It was so dark the sentry could
see nothing, but he fired his gun in the direction of the voices. The
party at once drew off and the guard was too small to feel it safe to
pursue. On the next day the dead body of Tucker was found in a
small brook a few rods west of the house, with two bullets through his
head. The body was rolled in a blanket and buried in a hole below
high water mark, at the head of the Island bay, so-called.
While but few men of Guilford were killed outright in the war of
the revolution, a number died from exposure and sickness contracted
in the service. Doctor Alvan Talcott placed the number at twenty
and gave the following as their names: Timothy Barnes.William Fair-
child, Lewis Fairchild, Eber Hall, Timothy Luddington, Seth Morse,
Bridgeman Murray, Captain Phineas Meigs, Abel Saxton, William Sa-
bine, David Field, Joseph Hotchkin, Ebenezer Hart, Abner Leete,
Simeon Leete, Captain Jehiel Meigs, Wait Munger, Samuel Stevens,
Daniel Stone, Samuel Ward.
The war of 1812 did not produce any stirring events in the town.
A volunteer artillery company was raised, which had two brass field
pieces, kept in the town house; and an iron cannon was kept in Madi-
son, to be used as was the one in the revolution, to give the signal of
invasion. A company of state troops, formed in this town and Bran-
ford, commanded by Abraham I. Chittenden, Abraham Rogers and
William Todd, was in service a short time as a reserve corps at New
London and New Haven.
The War for the Union — 1861-5 — awoke the spirit of patriotism in
Guilford to a wonderful extent; and at no stage was there any lagging
of ardor to prosecute it, so far as the town was concerned, to a success-
ful issue. Beginning with the special meeting held April 30th, 1861,
until the close of war, action to that end was taken at the regular meet-
ings and at seven meetings called especially for that purpose. In all,
Guilford contributed 308 men and $21,166 in money, besides the
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 165
amounts raised by the Christian and Sanitary Commissions, aggregat-
ing- about $10,000 more. With scarcely any exception, the leading citi-
zens were all active in this cause. Before the close of the war 60 of
the heroic sons of Guilford had laid down their lives. After many
years their bravery was fitly commemorated.
A movement to build a Soldiers' Monument, begun in 1872, met
with but indifferent success and was abandoned. Several years later
the matter was again taken up, when Ed. Griswold and others were
appointed a soliciting committee, which raised a fund of about $1,300.
This encouraged those interested to adopt plans for a monument,
by modifying one of the designs prepared by J. G. Batterson, of
Hartford, consisting of a base, die and pedestal, surmounted by a
figure. The contract for all but the latter was awarded to John
Beattie, the material selected by him being Leete's Island granite.
The base was laid with ceremonies May 30th, 1877, on which occa-
sion W. H. H. Murray delivered the oration. In 1879 the die, on which
were cut the names of many soldiers who fell in the service, was placed
upon the base, and thus for eight years the monument was left stand-
ing in an incomplete condition. In 1884 the work was revived and the
matter was placed in the hands of an executive committee composed
of J. Lynde Harrison, Miss Kate Foote and Charles Griswold, who
raised the necessary funds to complete the monument. In this they
were much encouraged by Hon. Simeon B. Chittenden, of New York,
and Mrs. Sarah B. Cone, also a native of the town. A contract was
made with Thomas Phillips & Sons, of New Haven, to cut out of
Quincy granite the statue of an infantry soldier, standing at rest,
which was to be placed upon the pile already standing in the center
of the green. This figure was ready to place in position the follow-
ing year, and the monument was dedicated June 2d, 1887. Among
the throng in attendance were Governor Lounsbury and staff,
Senators Hawley and Piatt, and a number of Grand Army Posts
from neighboring towns. Charles Griswold was the marshal of the
day.
The monument as it stands is about fifteen feet high and has at-
tractive proportions. Its entire cost was about $2,500. On one of the
faces of the die are engraved the words:
"In memory of the men of Guilford who fell, and in
honor of those who served in the war for the Union, the
grateful town erects this monument, that their example
may speak to coming generations."
Also are inscribed, on the pedestal, the names of the important bat-
tles in which they participated, viz.:
•' Antietam, Fredericksburg, Port Royal and Gettysburg."
It reflects credit upon the town in spite of the fact that it took ten
years to complete what should at once have been finished.
lu'tj HISTORY' OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
John W. Barker, born in 1828, is a son of Samuel A. and Mary Ann
(Kirkum) Barker, grandson of Joel, great-grandson of Jacob, and great-
great-grandson of Daniel, whose father, Daniel, was among the early
settlers of North Branford. Mr. Barker is a carriage maker by trade.
In 1877 he built the Sachem's Head House, which he has kept open to
the public since that time as a summer hotel. He married Mary A.
Serry. Their children are: Charles A., Nettie M., Lottie M. (Mrs. E.
J. Parmelee), William S. and Edward B.
Cyrus Olcott Bartlett, born in 1829, is the eldest son of Nathaniel
and Bertha (Cook) Bartlett, grandson of Samuel and great-grandson of
John Bartlett. Mr. Bartlett is a farmer. He married Frances H.>
daughter of Austin Fowler. Their children are: Amy F. and Charles
O. They lost one daughter, Mary F.
David Bartlett, born in 1815, is a son of Stephen and Nancy (Fow-
ler) Bartlett, and grandson of John, whose father, Henry, was a son of
George Bartlett. Mr. Bartlett is a farmer, and has held several town
offices. In 1877 and 1879 he was representative to the legislature.
He married Ruth Frances, daughter of Erastus Dudley. She died in
1889. They had two children: James D. and one that died, Melzar F.
Edwin W. Bartlett, born in 1839, is a brother of Cyrus O. Bartlett.
He is a farmer. He married Annis S., daughter of Nathan C. Dudley.
Their children are: Bertha, Edwin N., Mary and Erastus D. Mr. Bart-
lett was selectman eleven years.
John Beattie, the well known quarryman and contractor, of Leete's
Island, Guilford, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, June 18th, 1824.
His father was John Beattie,* a freeman of that city, who was a direct
descendant of the noted Beattie family of Eskdale Moor, in Dumfries-
shire, Scotland, whose ancestry has been traced back more than six cen-
turies, and whose valor and exploits in peace and war have been cele-
brated in the story and song of that country, by Sir Walter Scott and
others. On the paternal side his grandmother was Nanes Armstrong,
a descendant of the Johnson family, of Dumfriesshire, also prominent
in the affairs of Scotland. The mother of John Beattie was Ann
Richardson, a daughter of John Richardson, whose wife was Catherine
Tate, and both families belonged to Haddington, Scotland.
In 1830, when John Beattie was about six years of age, his parents
removed to America and settled at Newport, R. I., where his father
carried on his trade as stone mason and contractor, and at that place
the paternal home in this country was established, on a small farm.
Here the son was sent to school for a short time, but his robust nature
rebelled against the restraint imposed upon him by such a life, and he
preferred to work in the fields on his father's farm. Subsequently, in
*From time immemorial the oldest son of each generation of the Beattie
family was named John.
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 167
Nova Scotia, he attended with profit, for a few terms, the school of an
excellent man, the Reverend Mr. Morrison, his school days being thus
limited to these brief periods. In the meantime his father had re-
moved from Newport to Nova Scotia, where he was engaged as the
contractor in the construction of the masonry work on a canal from
Halifax to Pictou.
After a few years residence in the former town, when John would
no longer attend school, his father purposed to indenture him to learn
the trade of a shoemaker, and had selected a master for him, where-
upon the independent lad gave so emphatic a demonstration against
such a step that the plan was summarily abandoned. This opposition
was probably the act in his life which led him into the avocation in
which he has for so many years been most successfully engaged. Being
now thirteen years old, strong and healthy, with a love for out-door
occupation, his father was persuaded to allow him to learn the trade
of stone cutting, which work John took up with great spirit. In the
course of a few years the failure of the canal company induced the
Beatties to return to their home at Newport, when the father and John
went to New York to work at their trade. A year later they went to
Boston, and not long after to Newport, where the father died when
John was 16 years of age. The care of the family, consisting of his
mother and four children, the next oldest being ten years, devolved
upon John, who, deeply feeling the responsibility placed upon him,
now entered upon his life-work with an earnestness of application that
was bound to bring success. He became very skillful in his trade, and
was a rapid and thorough workman. The next four years he was en-
gaged at Fort Adams, R. I., having, when he was 18 years of age, his
first contract to do work for the United States government. At the age
of 20 years he was appointed foreman mason of the bridge builders on
a section of the Boston & Troy railroad, where for two years he had
his first experience in overseeing large numbers of men. In 1846 he
returned to Fort Adams, where he was appointed master stone cutter
by General W. S. Rosecrans, and superintended the preparation of
the material used in that fortification until work was suspended by
order of Jefferson Davis, at that time the secretary of war. Again,
for a year, he was with the Boston & Troy Railroad Company in his
old capacity, when he went to California as a gold miner, and for two
years and two months had the experience of that occupation, without
realizing any of the rewards sometimes associated with it. Returning
to the East, poor in purse and with impaired health, his next work was
building the stone towers for the suspension bridge across the Ken-
tucky river, at Pleasant Valley. His health continuing poor he and
his brother, William, next opened a stone cutter's yard at Newport, in
which he worked a year with beneficial results to his health.
In 1855 he built the towers for the great bridge across the Ohio,
between Cincinnati and Covington, after which he had an interest in
168 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
the construction of Section 1 of the Brooklyn Water Works, at Jamai-
ca, N. Y. That being completed, at a loss to him, he next spent some
time building bridges on the Wabash railroad in Indiana, after which
he again returned to Jamaica, N. Y., and contracted for the construc-
tion of another section of the water works. This job he personally
superintended, and to such great advantage that he and his partner
cleared $20,000 in eighteen months. After this he executed many
contracts for mason work in bridges, on railroads, warehouse docks
and lighthouses. He built bridges on the Worcester & Nashua rail-
road, on the Old Colony Line, and the Warren & Fall River railroad.
He constructed the piers for the bridge at Warehouse Point and the
Old Colony dock at Newport, all large public works.
In 186. r > he purchased the Harrison Quarry, at Fall River, but after
operating it one year left it in charge of his brother William and son
John, and opened another quarry at Niantic, Conn. In a few years
he disposed of that interest, and in February, 1869, came to Guilford,
where he bought 16 acres of land at Hoadley's Point, upon which were
very fine ledges of excellent granite. The following season he built
several houses upon this- tract, doing at the same time the mason work
of the Newport & Wickford railroad. On the 22d of August, 1870, he
removed permanently to Leete's Island, which has since been his home,
where he has developed the large quarrying interests at that place,
until the industry has become one of the largest of the kind in the
state. His granite lands and real estate at Leete's Island have been
increased to more than 400 acres of land. He employs from 125 to
600 men, their operations being conducted in a systematic manner
and aided by modern appliances. The products are readily trans-
ported to many different localities by the Shore Line railroad, running
through his lands, and by a fleet of vessels owned by him and laden at
his own docks, at Hoadley's Point. The granite of his quarries is of
several qualities: blue, pink and white — which are here cut, carved
and polished into any desired forms — and a coarse-grained gray, hav-
ing a carrying capacity of 18,000 pounds to the square inch, which is
much used for building purposes. A large quantity was thus supplied
for the construction of the roadway of the New York & Harlem rail-
road, from the river to the Grand Central depot, in New York city.
Much of the stone in the Brooklyn bridge was procured at Leete's
Island, and the granite pedestal for the statue of " Liberty," on Bed-
loe's Island, in New York bay, was furnished from these quarries.
Mr. Beattie has a thorough, practical knowledge of every depart-
ment of work carried on by him, and having great industry, pluck and
fine executive ability, he has prospered in his affairs and has earned
the distinction of being one .of the foremost business men in the east-
ern part of the county. He has a strong physique and is liberally en-
dowed with many of the distinguishing characteristics of the Scottish
race. He was twice married; first to Ann Kelly, in 1842, by whom he
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 169
had four children: John, living at Fall River, Mass., the inventor of
the Amalgamated Battery Compound; Frank, superintendent of quar-
ries at Leete's Island; George, deceased in 1887; and Isabella, married
George Sanborn, of Leete's Island. For his second wife he married,
in 1870, Mary Gay, of Guilford, and the children by this union were:
Elizabeth, who deceased in 1878; and two sons, Peter and Thomas,
residing with their father at his pleasant home on Hoadley's Point,
Leete's Island.
Dan L. Benton, born in 1810, is a son of Dan L. and Betsey (Seward)
Benton, and grandson of Silas and Abigail (Linsley) Benton. Mr.
Benton is a farmer. He married Marietta, daughter of Montgomery
Norton. She died, leaving one son, Darwin N. His second marriage
was with Elizabeth A., daughter of Sacket and Polly (Bassett) Blak-
sley, and granddaughter of Joel Blaksley. Their children are: Hur-
bert L., Charles L. and Edward W.
Darwin N. Benton, born in 1834, is a son of Dan L. and Marietta E.
(Norton) Benton. He was a grain merchant since 1872, and since 1881
has been engaged in canning fruit in Guilford.
Richard H. Benton, born in 1823, is a brother of Dan L. Benton.
He is a farmer. He married Charlotte, daughter of Beverly and
Parna (Gould) Parkis. Their children are: Hattie E. Mattie S. and
Richard B. They lost one daughter in infancy.
Elisha C. Bishop, son of Jonathan and Polly Maria Bishop, was born
in 1824. His grandfather, Jonathan, was a son of David, whose father,
David, was a son of John, whose father, John, was a son of John
Bishop, who came from England in 1639, and was one of the orig-
inal settlers of Guilford. Mr. Bishop is now a farmer. He repre-
sented the town in the legislature in 18S2, and has served sev-
eral terms as selectman. He married Charlotte G. Fowler in 1846.
She died in October, 18S5. Their children were: Frederick C, who
died in infancy; Frederick C, Robert D., who died in infancy; Robert
A., Edward F., Mary C, Frank H., Ida and Eva, twins; Richard M„
â– died in infancy; Marilla C. and Ernest S. His present wife is Cor-
nelia, a sister of his first wife.
Walter G. Bishop, born in Meriden in 1827, is a son of Martin and
Sylvina (Bradley) Bishop, and grandson of Benjamin Bishop, of North
Haven. He is a moulder by trade. In 1871 he came to Guilford,
where he has followed farming. His first wife was Dorcas J. Hunger-
ford, of Harwinton. His second marriage was with Nancy M., daugh-
ter of Rufus N. Leete, of Guilford, who died, leaving three children:
Dexter L., Burton W. and Grace S. His present wife was Ellen L.
Leete, sister of his second wife.
Albert C. Brewer, born in 1864, is a son of Alva G. and H. Alice
(Palmer) Brewer, and grandson of Thomas Brewer, who came from
England when a young man, and about 50 years ago settled where Al-
bert C. now lives. Alva G. Brewer was a farmer, and died in 1887,
170 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
aged 49 years. His children were: Nellie (Mrs. Richard H. Woodruff i.
Albert C., Fannie, Elizabeth (Mrs. William Blatchley), Angeline,
Harry, Mary and Hattie.
Elisaph H. Butler, born in 1848 in Norfolk, Conn., is a son of Levi
and Clarinda E. (Sanford) Butler, and grandson of Elisaph Butler.
Mr. Butler came to Guilford in 1854. In 1870 he became one of the
hardware firm of S. Robinson & Co., succeeding Chester Buckley in
the business. In 1887 Mr. Butler bought the interest of his partner,
and now conducts the business in his own name. He is vice-president
of the Guilford Savings Bank, has been several years burgess of the
borough, and is now justice of the peace. He married Fannie E.,
daughter of Stephen Robinson. Their children are: William S., Jennie
C, Hattie M. and Robert B. They lost four children.
David D. Carter, born in 1821 in Clinton, is a son of Jared and Polly
(Dibbell) Carter. He came to Guilford in 1843, where he has since
been a farmer. He married Mary J., daughter of William and Betsey
(Dudley) Chittenden. Their son, George W., married Alice Wilcox,
and they have two children: George E. and Harry W.
David D. Chittenden, born in 1817 and died in 1890, was a son of
David D., grandson of Simeon, and great-grandson of Simeon Chitten-
den. Mr. Chittenden married Abbie Ann, daughter of Erastus and
Ruth (Fowler) Dudley, who survives him. Their children are: George
M., David Dwight, Ruth F. (deceased), Dudley, Frederick and Lucy F.
Dudley Chittenden, born in 1851. is a son of David D. Chittenden.
He is a farmer. He married Mary E., daughter of Darwin Page, and
has three sons: George D., David D. and Harold.
Simeon Chittenden was a son of Simeon, and grandson of Simeon
Chittenden. He had six children: Henry W., William V. and Jerusha,.
deceased; and Parnel F., Martin Luther and John D. Henry W. was
born October 14th, 1817, and had four children, of whom Charles R.,
Henry and Maria Louise deceased, and one, Charles R., is living.
William V. was born November 28th, 1822, and had four children.
Three are deceased — Henry Scott, Emily L. and William H. The sur-
vivor is Simeon D. Jerusha Chittenden was born June 12th, 1826, and
died June 18th, 1826. Parnel F. married E. Frank Dudley. Martin L.
Chittenden owns and occupies his father's homestead. John D. mar-
ried Lucy A., daughter of Timothy Rossiter. Their children are:
Sarah T. and Charles F., and two that died — William H. and Franklin
F. J. William H. was a young man of much promise. He graduated
from the medical department of Yale College in 1883, and began prac-
tice at Branford, but on account of failing health was obliged to return
home, and died October 18th, 1884, aged 26 years.
Jerome Coan, born in 1834, is a son of John and Elizabeth (Hart)
Coan, and grandson of John, who was a revolutionary soldier, who
was a son of John, and grandson of John, whose father, Peter, was born
in 1697, in Germany, and in 1715, with his parents and two younger
HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY. 171
brothers. George and Abraham, came to America. In 1736 Peter set-
tled at North Guilford, near where Jerome now lives. Mr. Coan is a
merchant. He served three years in the late war in Company E, 15th
Connecticut Volunteers. He married Frances D. Griswold, who died
in 1859. He married for his second wife Mary F., daughter of Henry
Judd. Their children are: Joseph F. and Fannie L.
Owen Cunningham, son of Dennis Cunningham, was born in Ire-
land in 1832, and came to America in 1838. He learned the copper-
smith trade in Buffalo, N. Y., and at the age of 20 went to Chicago,
where he lived until 1880, when he came to Guilford. He served in
the war of the rebellion in Company K, 23d Illinois Volunteers, for
about three years. He married Ann Driscoll.
Deacon Edwin O. Davis, born in 1825, is a son of Joel and Polly
(Loper) Davis, and grandson of James Davis, who was a revolutionary
soldier, and came from Southold, L. I., to Guilford, where he married
Ruth Griswold and had nine children. Mr. Davis is a farmer. He mar-
ried in 1849, Martha S., daughter of Dan L. Benton. Their children
are: Anna S., now Mrs. J. P. Slocum; Robert E., who is a farmer with
his father; and Martha E., now Mrs. Frank E. Fowler. Mr. and Mrs.
Davis have 11 grandchildren.
George S. Davis, born in 1854, is the eldest son of George W. and
Cornelia (Smith) Davis, and grandson of Joel Davis. Mr. Davis was
eight years in Hartford as merchant's clerk, and was then four years
clerk in the Guilford post office. Since 18S3 he has been a grocery
merchant. He is now serving his sixth term as town treasurer, and in
1889 he represented the town in the legislature. He married Anna G.
Fowler. They have one daughter, Elizabeth G. They lost one son in
infanc3\
Sherman W. Davis, born in lS26in Killingworth, was a son of Zina
and Amanda (.Stephens) Davis. He is a farmer. He married Emma
J., daughter of Nathan Aldrich. Their children are: Ella (Mrs. Frank
Hill), Mrs. Phebe J. Dudley and Mrs. Flora E. Dudley.
Emily G. (Davis) Demarest is a daughter of Joel and Polly (Loper)
Davis. She married first Samuel Madden, a furniture dealer of New
York, who died in 1869, aged 50 years. They had eight sons: Oscar
E., Samuel C, Joel D., Albert F., Harry G., Lewis A., Allen E. and
Charles W. They lost one daughter, Ella P. Mrs. Demarest has her
home in Guilford, near the place of her birth.
Julius A. Dowd, born in 1806, was the eldest of twelve children of
Julius and Clarissa (Stone) Dowd, grandson of Ebenezer, and great-
grandson of Ebenezer, whose father, Thomas, was a son of Thomas,
and a grandson of Henry Dowd, who came from England in 1639 and
died in Guilford in 1668. Mr. Dowd is a shoemaker by trade and has
followed the business through life except 20 years, during which time
he was a farmer. He married Mrs. Nancy Terry, who died leaving
one daughter, Mary C, now Mrs. Virgil Hotchkiss. His second mar-
172 HISTORY OF NEW HAVEN COUNTY.
riage was with Mrs. Abigail Tibbies, daughter of Doctor Jonathan
Todd, of Madison.
William T. Dowd, born in 1828 in Madison, is a son of Rufus and
Rebecca (Bishop) Dowd, and grandson of Moses Dowd. He is a joiner
by trade. He is now filling his fifth term as warden of the borough.
He married Mary J. Pomeroy. They have two children: William H.
and Mary, now Mrs. Louis P. Anderson.
Ebenezer F. Dudley, born in 1819, is a son of Erastus and Ruth
(Fowler) Dudley, grandson of Luther, and great-grandson of Jared,
whose father. William, was a son of Joseph, and grandson of William
Dudley. Mr. Dudley, like most of his ancestors, is a farmer.
