History and Genealogy of Hartford Vermont

George W Smith's Cracker Factory, White River Junction, Vermont

History of Hartford, Vermont, July 4, 1761–April 4, 1889, published in 1889, is a comprehensive town history compiled by William Howard Tucker and issued by The Free Press Association of Burlington. The work covers the period from the chartering of Hartford in 1761, shortly after the close of the French and Indian War, through the late nineteenth century. It was undertaken to preserve, in permanent form, the documentary and narrative record of the town’s origin, settlement, organization, and development. It also includes biographical sketches and extended genealogies of prominent Hartford families, along with an 1889 business directory and detailed indexes.

Genealogies of the Town of Goffstown New Hampshire

Orrin Moore and family of Goffstown, New Hampshire

The genealogical record of Goffstown, New Hampshire, was a substantial undertaking, hampered by the extinction of early families and the widespread scattering of descendants. Efforts to gather vital statistics necessitated considerable travel and correspondence, often revealing discrepancies in recorded dates across various sources. Despite challenges, contributions from former works and assistance from individuals proved invaluable in compiling this record. The comprehensive index reflects the depth of research involved in documenting the town’s heritage.

History of Natrona County, Wyoming

Casper Wyoming in 1894

For individuals researching ancestors who lived in Natrona County between 1888 and 1922, this book offers valuable context and potential leads. It includes names of county officials, war veterans, pioneers, and individuals involved in notable local events, as well as detailed accounts of institutions such as schools, churches, newspapers, and civic organizations. Descriptions of towns, industries, and public records provide insight into the communities where ancestors may have lived or worked. While not a genealogical record in and of itself, the book’s extensive local detail can help place family histories within the broader social and economic framework of the time. And who knows, perhaps your ancestor was one of the more colorful citizens portrayed…

A History of Newburgh Lodge No. 174, F. & A.M.

Old Masonic Lodge, Newburgh

A History of Newburgh Lodge No. 174, F. & A.M. provides a historical account of the lodge, detailing its founding in Newburgh, Indiana, in 1854. It traces the origins to an inaugural meeting under a dispensation with key figures like Draper Chipman and Azel Freeman leading the lodge. The narrative connects local events such as the burial of Mason John W. Palmer in 1851, hinting at an earlier Masonic presence in Newburgh. The chapter also paints a vivid picture of Newburgh in the 1850s as a bustling river port with significant economic activity and cultural vibrancy, suggesting these factors contributed to the establishment of the Masonic lodge. I have provided you an index to the genealogical information found in the section on “Our First One Hundred Years” 1855-1955.

Brown Genealogy

Brown Genealogy

In 1895, Cyrus Henry Brown began collecting family records of the Brown family, initially with the intention of only going back to his great-grandfathers. As others became interested in the project, they decided to trace the family lineage back to Thomas Brown and his wife Mary Newhall, both born in the early 1600s in Lynn, Massachusetts. Thomas, John, and Eleazer, three of their sons, later moved to Stonington, Connecticut around 1688. When North Stonington was established in 1807, the three brothers were living in the southern part of the town. Wheeler’s “History of Stonington” contains 400 records of early descendants of the Brown family, taken from the town records of Stonington. However, many others remain unidentified, as they are not recorded in the Stonington town records. For around a century, the descendants of the three brothers lived in Stonington before eventually migrating to other towns in Connecticut and New York State, which was then mostly undeveloped. He would eventually write this second volume of his Brown Genealogy adding to and correcting the previous edition. This book is free to search, read, and/or download.

Genealogical Record of Thomas Wait and his descendants

Genealogical record of Thomas Wait and his descendants

Genealogical Record of Thomas Wait and his descendants looks at the genealogy of Thomas Wait (1601-1677) who was from Wethersfield Parish, Essex, England. On his arrival in America, landing in Rhode Island, he applied for a lot on which to build,and was granted it on 7/1/1639. On 3/l6/l641 he became a Freeman in Newport R. I. He died in Portsmouth R. I., before April 1677 intestate. This Thomas Wait was a cousin to the Richard Waite of Watertown Mass., who was a large land owner. This unpublished manuscript provides the descendants of this family.

Lewis Family of Norwich Vermont

William Lewis, a blacksmith, and his family, including his wife Naomi and eight children, moved to Norwich from Windsor, Connecticut, in 1781 or 1782. Initially settling on a farm now owned by Benjamin Clifford, he later purchased a larger farm, expanding it to 250 acres. He was actively involved in local governance, serving as moderator and selectman multiple times. William Lewis passed away on December 15, 1806, with his wife Naomi having died earlier on April 28, 1803. Their son, Joseph, was the eldest.

Biography of General William E. Lewis

Colonel William E. Lewis

General William E. Lewis was born on May 25, 1815, and served his community tirelessly in various public offices from 1838 until his death on January 5, 1892. A dedicated public servant, he held the position of town clerk for forty-nine consecutive terms and represented Norwich in the state legislature multiple times. Additionally, he was active in the State Militia, rising to the rank of Brigadier-General. His contributions to the town were recognized posthumously, highlighting his integrity and commitment to public service.

Burton Family of Norwich Vermont

Jacob Burton arrived in Norwich from Preston, Connecticut, in 1765 with his family, becoming one of the town’s founding figures. He purchased land that encompassed much of the present Norwich village, erecting the first dwelling there. His son, Reverend Doctor Asa Burton, who faced significant hardships in his youth, pursued education against his father’s initial opposition and later became a prominent minister in Thetford, Vermont. Asa notably expanded his church’s membership from sixteen to nearly five hundred over his lifetime, influencing many future clergy.

Baxter Family of Norwich Vermont

The Baxter family, originally from Norwich, Connecticut, settled in Norwich, Vermont, in 1777. Elihu Baxter and his wife, Tryphena Taylor, had fifteen children, with twelve surviving to adulthood. Their descendants spread across Vermont and beyond, with several establishing prominent careers. Notable figures include William Baxter, a distinguished lawyer, and James Baxter, a member of the Provincial Parliament in Canada. The family’s influence extended through various trades and professions, with connections maintained in the region into the 19th century.

History of the Industries of Norwich VT

Knapp’s Mill, Norwich, Vermont

The industries of Norwich, VT, while not extensive, have displayed diverse characteristics since the late 18th century. Early establishments included grist and saw mills along Blood Brook, with ownership changing hands over the years. Other ventures featured tanneries, harness and trunk making, and the production of potash and furniture. Notable craftsmen, such as blacksmiths and boot makers, contributed to the local economy. Over time, businesses evolved, leading to the establishment of a creamery in 1888, which later became part of Hood Co.

Migration of Families out of Norwich VT

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Norwich, Vermont, experienced significant emigration, leading to a notable decline in its population. Initially home to 40 families in 1771, the town saw many residents relocate to newer settlements, such as Royalton and Randolph, during and after the Revolutionary War. Prominent families, including the Hibbards and Carpenters, contributed to the establishment of towns in northern Vermont and beyond. By the 1800s, the trend of outmigration intensified, marking a long-term shift in the region’s demographic landscape.

Political Parties in Norwich Vermont

In Norwich, Vermont, political parties have historically maintained a close balance, with elections often fiercely contested. Initially aligned with the Federalists, the town shifted towards the Republicans following the formation of the party in the mid-1850s. Prior to this, Democratic candidates generally enjoyed a stronghold, particularly from 1833 to 1854, despite significant competition. The rise of anti-slavery sentiment led to a decline in the Whig Party and a shift toward the Republican Party, culminating in significant support for Abraham Lincoln in 1860, marking a turning point in local political history.

Norwich Vermont in the Revolutionary War

Norwich, Vermont provided modest participation in the Revolutionary War, highlighted by its formation of a Committee of Safety in March 1777. Evidence suggests a militia was established as early as 1774. The town contributed to regiments under Colonels Warner and Bedell. Local militias organized for defense amid threats from British forces in 1776, further demonstrating Norwich’s involvement. Despite lacking comprehensive records, the enlistment of local soldiers was significant, along with efforts to protect the community from loyalist activities and contribute to the war effort.

Church History of Norwich Vermont

The first generation of Norwich settlers accomplished a significant community milestone by constructing a meeting house for public worship within a decade of settlement. This project involved the entire community, showcasing their determination despite limited resources. A committee ultimately selected the location after significant debate, with the cornerstone laid in 1778. Delays due to the Revolutionary War slowed progress, but by 1785, the building was completed and became a site for various civic activities, including sessions of the Vermont Legislature. The meeting house served the town until 1817 when a new structure was erected due to growing needs.

Norwich Plain Meeting House

The Norwich Plain Meeting House was constructed in 1817 and dedicated on November 20 of the same year. Reverend R. W. Bailey served as the first pastor until 1823. Initially consisting of eleven members, the congregation grew significantly during Bailey’s ministry and subsequent leadership, including notable revivals under Reverend Doctor Roswell Shurtleff. The church moved to its current location in 1852, experiencing further growth, especially after absorbing members from the dissolved North Church in 1854. The church has had several pastors and continues to thrive.

First Settlements in Norwich Vermont

The early settlement of Norwich, Vermont, began in 1762 when Samuel Slafter’s son, John, explored the area, reporting its fertile land and water sources. In 1763, after receiving his father’s rights, he commenced clearing lots but faced challenges, as his initial choice proved unsuitable. By 1765-66, a few families settled permanently, including the Hutchinsons and Manns, establishing homes and farms. Pioneers endured various hardships, yet they built foundations for a thriving community, characterized by a homogeneous population primarily from Connecticut.

Biography of William Paxton Hazen

William Paxton Hazen, a prominent Kansas banker and public figure, passed away on April 16, 1909, in Chetopa. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1858, he moved to Kansas in 1880, where he held key banking positions and served as assistant bank commissioner, overseeing 108 banks. A man of strong principles, Hazen was involved in political reform and community service. He was married to Addie Glass, a noted philanthropist, and they raised three accomplished children, each pursuing meaningful careers.