History of Danbury, Connecticut, 1684-1896 Part 1 and 2

This work, the first written history of Danbury, was originally started by J. M. Bailey. His unfinished composition was then taken up by S. B. Hill and completed in 1896. This text is a very precise account of the town and its surrounding areas. Danbury, which lies in Fairfield County, Connecticut, was settled in 1684 by British colonists. The town quickly developed around the business of commerce and trade and became a place of strategic importance for the King’s Forces. The town grew soundly and steadily over time, expanding into such things as newspapers, hatting, paper making and other various industries. This economic growth triggered a constant influx of settlers.

This work contains a genealogical wealth of information. Indeed, a major portion of the book would be helpful in researching the heritage of Danbury’s citizenry. Useful data includes: names and descent of first settlers, records of marriages and births, rosters of military service, some burial records, a town census, deed information, certain family genealogies, and a list of Danbury members of the Connecticut House of Representatives. An extensive discussion of societal, commercial, industrial and educational history is also provided by the author. Specific information encompasses: the inception of the Danbury Fire and Police Departments, establishment of schools and libraries, a financial and banking history, how various professional institutions and societies came to be, and the creation of local businesses and industry. Each topical account focuses on the people involved, furnishing names, stories and individual contributions. A biographical sketch of the world-famous showman P. T. Barnum, who was reared near Danbury, is an engaging aside.

Susan B. Hill

(1896, 1998), 2025, 5.5" x 8.5", paper, index, 2 vols, 732 pp.

ISBN: 9780788408366

101-H0836