Olcott Genealogy – Access Genealogy

Abbe-Abbey Genealogy

A genealogical dictionary of the first settlers of New England vol 1

The “Abbe-Abbey Genealogy” serves as a comprehensive and meticulously compiled homage to the heritage of the Abbe and Abbey families, tracing its roots back to John Abbe and his descendants. Initiated by the life-long passion of Professor Cleveland Abbe, this genealogical exploration began in his youth and expanded throughout his illustrious career, despite numerous challenges. It encapsulates the collaborative efforts of numerous family members and researchers, including significant contributions from individuals such as Charles E. Abbe, Norah D. Abbe, and many others, each bringing invaluable insights and data to enrich the family’s narrative.

Olcott Family of Norwich Vermont

Hon. Peter Olcott, born on April 25, 1733, in Bolton, Connecticut, moved to Norwich, Vermont, in the 1770s. He was a prominent community leader, serving in various public offices including first justice of the peace and Lieutenant Governor. His influence helped establish the town’s first meeting house and burying ground. Olcott was also active in military affairs during the American Revolution. He died on September 12, 1808, leaving a legacy through his numerous children and significant contributions to Norwich’s early governance and development.

Murdock Family of Norwich Vermont

Hon. Thomas Murdock moved to Norwich from Connecticut in 1767, marrying Elizabeth Hatch and raising a family that included six children. Prominent in local affairs, he held various positions before his death in 1803. His sons, Asahel and Constant, were active voters, with Asahel eventually returning to Connecticut. Jasper, also a son, built an impressive residence at Norwich Plain. The estate changed hands over the years, influencing the town’s development, and remnants of it, including a fish pond, remain part of its history.

Biography of John Hatch, Esq.

John Hatch, Esq., born on June 9, 1727, in Preston, Connecticut, was an influential early settler in Norwich, Vermont. He served as selectman and town clerk from the 1760s until 1780, also holding the role of county surveyor for Cumberland County. A skilled surveyor, he contributed significantly to the town’s layout and infrastructure. Married to Sarah Richards in 1748, they had nine children together. Hatch passed away on April 24, 1806, shortly after his wife.

Biography of Abel Curtis

Abel Curtis, born June 13, 1755, in Lebanon, Connecticut, was a notable figure in Norwich’s early history. A Dartmouth College graduate in 1776, he played a crucial role in local governance from 1778 until his death in 1783. Curtis served in various capacities, including town clerk and legislator, and was instrumental in maintaining the unity of Connecticut River towns during the Revolutionary War. His contributions spanned multiple committees and conventions, reflecting his commitment to both state and community.

Biography of Prof. George Bush

George Bush, born on June 12, 1796, in Norwich, Vermont, became a prominent Biblical scholar and Orientalist in America. He demonstrated exceptional intelligence from a young age, graduating as valedictorian from Dartmouth College in 1818. After studying at Princeton Seminary and serving as a Presbyterian pastor, he settled in New York City, where he devoted himself to authorship and lecturing. A professor of Hebrew and Oriental Literature, Bush published influential works, including commentaries and theological treatises. He later embraced Swedenborgian doctrines, which alienated him from many former colleagues. Bush passed away on September 19, 1859.

History of the Merchants of Norwich VT

Peter Olcott operated a store in Norwich during the Revolutionary War, followed by Stephen Burton and Ichabod Marshall, early merchants who later moved west. The late 18th and early 19th century saw various merchants such as George Woodward, William Little, and Elias Lyman establishing businesses in the region. The mercantile landscape evolved with partnerships and new firms, including the Olds, Newton, and Lyman firms, adapting through various challenges, such as fires, until the late 19th century, reflecting Norwich’s commercial development.

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.

History of Norwich Vermont Education

High School Building, Norwich Village, Erected in 1898

The history of education in Norwich, Vermont, traces back to efforts in 1782 to establish school districts. The first successful division occurred in 1785, creating the First School District. Over the years, multiple districts were formed, with the establishment of a committee for school supervision in 1824. Notable developments included the construction of a brick schoolhouse in 1845 and the incorporation of the Norwich Classical and English Boarding School in 1867, although it ultimately closed in 1877. The town’s education framework evolved significantly, culminating in a unified system in 1892.

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.

History of the Congregational Church of Norwich Vermont

The Congregational Church of Norwich, one of Vermont’s oldest congregational churches, was established in 1770, primarily by former members from Connecticut. Reverend Lyman Potter became its first settled minister in 1775. Early meetings were held in private homes or barns until the first meeting house was built around 1784. After several pastors, including Reverend James W. Woodward, who served from 1804 to 1821, tensions over meeting house locations led to the formation of the South Congregational Church in 1819. Despite the split, the original church maintained a strong membership.

Norwich Vermont in the Controversy with New York

The political struggle between New York and the New Hampshire Grants primarily affected settlers’ titles and local governance. Norwich, largely detached from these tensions, operated under New Hampshire Grants without significant interference from New York. Town records seldom reference New York, reflecting a quiet disregard for its authority. While other towns sought charters from New York, Norwich maintained its practices, opting for traditional New England governance. When Vermont declared independence in 1777, Norwich citizens actively participated, culminating in the formation of a separate state, solidifying their break from New York’s jurisdiction.

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.

Norwich Vermont an Independent Township

The political organization of America began with the Township, particularly in New England, where towns emerged as independent entities with self-governing rights in the mid-17th century. Town meetings served as foundational democratic institutions, allowing citizens to elect officials and manage local affairs. Norwich, Vermont, exemplified this tradition, organizing its town government in 1761 before any settlers arrived. Its early record-keeping and governance practices reflect a commitment to law, order, and community engagement, which have shaped its ongoing civic structure.