Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Bolton, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Bolton, Connecticut, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Bolton, Connecticut, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Bolton
Bolton, Tolland, Connecticut, USA
Bolton’s early economy was centered around quarries.
Bolton’s early economy was centered around quarries.
Sourcecourant.com
Have family roots in Bolton?Add your family to this place
MAP
Use the map to explore this place and its surroundings.
VINTAGE BOLTON
Bolton Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Bolton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
R.R. Station, Bolton Notch
Bolton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
The Crossing, Bolton Notch
Bolton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
No. 1 Center School and Cong. Church
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to BOLTON
CONNECTICUT Gift Idea - Apizza, Burger on Toast, White Clam Pizza - I Love Connecticut! - CT Mug for Genealogists Family History
Featuring iconic local delicacies, the design of this mug captures the essence of Connecticut's food culture. It pays homage to the Apizza, a unique and mouthwatering pizza style that originated in New Haven. The legendary Louis' Lunch Burger, said to be the birthplace of the hamburger, is also prominently featured. And of course, there's a nod to the classic White Clam Pizza, a coastal favorite that's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
SAVIN ROCK, CT Memories - Vintage Amusement Park Connecticut Postcards Ceramic Mug
Take a nostalgic trip to Connecticut’s beloved Savin Rock amusement park with this charming ceramic mug. Featuring vintage-inspired images and iconic landmarks, it’s perfect for reminiscing about summer days, family outings, and the golden age of amusement parks.
CONNECTICUT Roots Mug: Bed-and-Breakfast Enthusiast Edition
Start your day with a sip of history and charm from our Connecticut-inspired ceramic mug, proudly proclaiming: "My ancestors came from Connecticut, that explains a lot about my love for charming bed-and-breakfasts and discussing the nuances of colonial architecture." This delightful mug is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, like cozy mornings at quaint inns and lively conversations about the elegance of colonial design.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Bolton: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Bolton through the years.
1720 - (Bolton, CT) - Originally part of the town of Hartford, the area was referred to as Hartford Mountains or Hanover, until incorporation in October of 1720.
1721 - (Bolton, CT) - In 1721, at a town meeting, it was voted to construct a Meeting House.
1725 - (Bolton, CT) - In 1725, the Reverend Thomas White became Bolton’s first minister.
1749 - (Bolton, CT) - The first permanent schools were established in Bolton.
French Army General Comte de Rochambeau stayed with his troops at Rose’s Farm in Bolton in 1781.
They were on their way to join Washington at the Battle of Yorktown.
1808 - The northern half of Bolton was set aside in 1808 to form the town of Vernon.
1812 - (Bolton, CT) - The first Post Office was established in Bolton in 1812, with Samuel Alvord as the first Postmaster.
1819 - Bolton
Bolton is a small post township, 14 miles east from Hartford; bounded on the north by Vernon, on the east by Coventry, on the south by Hebron, and on the west by East-Hartford. The township contains an area of 16 square miles; being more than 5 miles in length and 3 in breadth.
This town is embraced within the granitic district of the eastern section of the State, has an elevated situation, and is hilly and stony. The soil is a coarse, hard, gravelly loam, rather cold and sterile. It however affords tolerable grazing; and the dairy business is the leading agricultural interest.
The natural growth of timber is oak, walnut, maple, chesnut, &c.; and the forests are considerably extensive. The farmers, in the fall and winter seasons, bring large quantities of wood to Hartford market.
A branch of Hop river runs through the northeastern section of the town, and a branch of Salmon river through the southwestern.
The Hartford and Norwich turnpike road leads through the centre of...
Read more
This town is embraced within the granitic district of the eastern section of the State, has an elevated situation, and is hilly and stony. The soil is a coarse, hard, gravelly loam, rather cold and sterile. It however affords tolerable grazing; and the dairy business is the leading agricultural interest.
The natural growth of timber is oak, walnut, maple, chesnut, &c.; and the forests are considerably extensive. The farmers, in the fall and winter seasons, bring large quantities of wood to Hartford market.
A branch of Hop river runs through the northeastern section of the town, and a branch of Salmon river through the southwestern.
The Hartford and Norwich turnpike road leads through the centre of...
Show more local history, news & stories
1820 - (Bolton, CT) - The Bolton Quarry was sending flags of stone to Washington, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and New Orleans as early as 1820.
1839 - Bolton
Bolton, Connecticut
Tolland county. This town lies 14 miles E. from Hartford and 10 miles S. by W. from Tolland. Population, 1830, 744. The soil is a coarse, hard, gravelly loam, fit only for grazing. It is within the granite region of the eastern section of the state. The Bolton Stone Quarry is quite noted. "The stone is a species of slate, of a brilliant light gray color, composed of mica and quartz, and is excellent for flagging and other purposes. It is extensively used in the principal cities of the United States. For strength it exceeds any other known in this country, and the demand for it is rapidly increasing." The supply is inexhaustible.
Tolland county. This town lies 14 miles E. from Hartford and 10 miles S. by W. from Tolland. Population, 1830, 744. The soil is a coarse, hard, gravelly loam, fit only for grazing. It is within the granite region of the eastern section of the state. The Bolton Stone Quarry is quite noted. "The stone is a species of slate, of a brilliant light gray color, composed of mica and quartz, and is excellent for flagging and other purposes. It is extensively used in the principal cities of the United States. For strength it exceeds any other known in this country, and the demand for it is rapidly increasing." The supply is inexhaustible.
1854 - Bolton
Bolton, a post-township of Tolland co., Conn., on the Providence, Hartford, and Fishkill railroad, about 15 miles E. from Hartford. This township contains an extensive quarry of a superior quality of stone. Pop., 600.
1881 - The Bolton Library Association was created in 1881.
Dr. Charles Sumner served for many years as its president. The first librarian, Frank P. Williams, was hired in 1883. The library was first located in Williams’ General Store in Bolton Center, and then moved to the home of Deacon Charles Loomis...
1895 - Bolton
Bolton, a post-township of Tolland co., Conn., traversed by the Providence, Hartford & Fishkill Railroad. Bolton Station on that road is 17 miles E. of Hartford. It has a paper-mill, granite-quarries, and 2 churches. P. 576.
1916
Bolton, a post-township (town) of Tolland co., Conn. Bolton station is 17 miles E. of Hartford. Pop. in 1900, 457.
1938 - The Bolton Lake dam gave way after a hurricane in 1938.
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Bolton:
Bolton Notch State Park: This scenic park is a hidden gem in Bolton. It offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful view of the old railroad tunnel that passes through the notch. It's a great spot for a leisurely hike and enjoying nature.
Hop River State Park Trail: If you love biking or hiking, the Hop River State Park Trail is a must-visit. This 20-mile-long rail trail passes through Bolton and provides a serene route through woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands. It's especially beautiful during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
Bolton Heritage Farm: This historic farm is a window into Bolton's agricultural past. It features a beautifully preserved 18th-century barn, walking trails, and educational exhibits. It's a great place to learn about the town's history and enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Shenipsit State Forest: Located adjacent to Bolton, this state forest offers over 7,000 acres of woodland, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The Shenipsit ...
Read more
Hop River State Park Trail: If you love biking or hiking, the Hop River State Park Trail is a must-visit. This 20-mile-long rail trail passes through Bolton and provides a serene route through woodlands, wetlands, and farmlands. It's especially beautiful during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
Bolton Heritage Farm: This historic farm is a window into Bolton's agricultural past. It features a beautifully preserved 18th-century barn, walking trails, and educational exhibits. It's a great place to learn about the town's history and enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Shenipsit State Forest: Located adjacent to Bolton, this state forest offers over 7,000 acres of woodland, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The Shenipsit ...
GENEALOGY IN BOLTON
Discover YOUR Roots: Bolton Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Bolton through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bolton, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 54 ancestors who were born or died in Bolton.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Bolton, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Bolton.
View married ancestorsCONTINUE YOUR RESEARCH
Search Bolton Genealogy
Search by place or by ancestor name to keep exploring families connected to Bolton.
SEARCH BY PLACE
Find Family by Place
Not the place you were looking for? Start another place search and choose a location from the suggestions.
SEARCH BY ANCESTOR
Find Family by Name
You can enter part of a name if you are unsure of the full name or exact spelling.
Updated: 10/9/2023 9:09:23 AM
COMMUNITY
Discussion & Local Contributions
Share corrections, memories, local history, or family connections that may help other researchers.