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History of Lyme, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Lyme, Connecticut, USA
(East Saybrook)
Explore Lyme, Connecticut, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Lyme Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Ezra Lee, the world’s first submarine operator was born in Lyme. During the Revolutionary War he operated and was the commander of the submarine "Turtle."
Until 1667, Lyme was a part of East Saybrook Plantation. The area was settled by English colonists, most of whom sympathized with English Civil War leader and advocate for Parliamentary government Oliver Cromwell.
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Explore even more about Lyme, Connecticut, USA. Keep reading!
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to LYME

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.
Discover Lyme: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1667 - (Lyme, CT) - Formerly East Saybrook, the town separated from Saybrook in 1665 and named in 1667.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ lyme/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ lyme/
1819 - Lyme
Lyme, an extensive maritime post township, is situated at the mouth of Connecticut river, on the east side; 40 miles southeast from Hartford, and about the same distance east from New-Haven; bounded north on East-Haddam and Colchester, east on Montville and Waterford, south on Long Island sound, and west on Connecticut river...
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island... John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles,
Lyme, an extensive maritime post township, is situated at the mouth of Connecticut river, on the east side; 40 miles southeast from Hartford, and about the same distance east from New-Haven; bounded north on East-Haddam and Colchester, east on Montville and Waterford, south on Long Island sound, and west on Connecticut river...
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island... John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles,
1839 - Lyme
Lyme, Connecticut
New London county. Lyme is situated at the mouth of Connecticut river, on the east side, opposite to Saybrook. It is a pleasant town, generally of good soil, but greatly diversified in regard to surface: some parts are mountainous and rocky, while others are level, with large tracts of salt meadow. The town is watered by several streams and ponds, and the shores on the sound and river are indented by small bays and harbors, which afford the town some navigable privileges. There are several neat villages in the town, a cotton mill, 2 woolen factories, and about 6,000 sheep. Lyme was first settled in 1664. Incorporated, 1667. It lies 40 miles S.E. from Hartford and 40 E. from New Haven. Population, 1839, 4,084. Its Indian name was Nehantick.
Among the first settlers was Matthew Griswold, the ancestor of two governors, and of a numerous and highly respected family in the state.
A tract of land, once an Indian reservation, was for some time in dispute between the... Read MORE...
Lyme, Connecticut
New London county. Lyme is situated at the mouth of Connecticut river, on the east side, opposite to Saybrook. It is a pleasant town, generally of good soil, but greatly diversified in regard to surface: some parts are mountainous and rocky, while others are level, with large tracts of salt meadow. The town is watered by several streams and ponds, and the shores on the sound and river are indented by small bays and harbors, which afford the town some navigable privileges. There are several neat villages in the town, a cotton mill, 2 woolen factories, and about 6,000 sheep. Lyme was first settled in 1664. Incorporated, 1667. It lies 40 miles S.E. from Hartford and 40 E. from New Haven. Population, 1839, 4,084. Its Indian name was Nehantick.
Among the first settlers was Matthew Griswold, the ancestor of two governors, and of a numerous and highly respected family in the state.
A tract of land, once an Indian reservation, was for some time in dispute between the... Read MORE...
1854 - Lyme
Lyme, a post-township of New London co., Connecticut, on the left bank of the Connecticut river, at its entrance into Long Island sound, 34 miles E. from New Haven. Population, 2668. It contains a village of its own name, on the New Haven and New London railroad.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
Lyme, a post-township of New London co., Connecticut, on the left bank of the Connecticut river, at its entrance into Long Island sound, 34 miles E. from New Haven. Population, 2668. It contains a village of its own name, on the New Haven and New London railroad.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
1855 - The southern section of Lyme became the municipality of Old Lyme in 1855.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ lyme/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ lyme/
1895 - Lyme
Lyme, lim, a township of New London co, Conn, on the Connecticut River. Pop. 1181. It contains North Lyme, Hadlyme, and Hamburg.
Lyme, a post-village of New London co, Conn., in Old Lyme township, on the E. bank of the Connecticut River, about 2 miles from its mouth, and on the Shore Line Rail. road, 34 miles E. of New Haven.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
Lyme, lim, a township of New London co, Conn, on the Connecticut River. Pop. 1181. It contains North Lyme, Hadlyme, and Hamburg.
Lyme, a post-village of New London co, Conn., in Old Lyme township, on the E. bank of the Connecticut River, about 2 miles from its mouth, and on the Shore Line Rail. road, 34 miles E. of New Haven.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
1916
Lyme, a township (town) and post-village of New London co., Conn., on the E. bank of the Connecticut River, about 2 miles from its mouth, and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 34 miles E. of New Haven. Pop. of the town in 1900, 750.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher
Lyme, a township (town) and post-village of New London co., Conn., on the E. bank of the Connecticut River, about 2 miles from its mouth, and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 34 miles E. of New Haven. Pop. of the town in 1900, 750.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Lyme:
Gillette Castle State Park:
Explore the impressive Gillette Castle, built by actor William Gillette in the early 20th century. The castle offers beautiful views of the Connecticut River.
Lyme Art Association:
Immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Lyme Art Association. They often host exhibitions showcasing the work of talented local artists.
Lyme Historical Society:
Discover the history of Lyme at the Lyme Historical Society. They might have exhibits, events, or walking tours that provide insight into the town's past.
Connecticut River Museum:
Learn about the maritime history of the Connecticut River at this museum. They often have exhibits related to shipbuilding, trade, and the cultural heritage of the region.
Chamard Vineyards:
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Chamard Vineyards, where you can taste local wines and savor delicious food. The vineyard often hosts events and live music.
Lyme Farmer's Market:
If you're visiting during the right... Read MORE...
Gillette Castle State Park:
Explore the impressive Gillette Castle, built by actor William Gillette in the early 20th century. The castle offers beautiful views of the Connecticut River.
Lyme Art Association:
Immerse yourself in the local art scene at the Lyme Art Association. They often host exhibitions showcasing the work of talented local artists.
Lyme Historical Society:
Discover the history of Lyme at the Lyme Historical Society. They might have exhibits, events, or walking tours that provide insight into the town's past.
Connecticut River Museum:
Learn about the maritime history of the Connecticut River at this museum. They often have exhibits related to shipbuilding, trade, and the cultural heritage of the region.
Chamard Vineyards:
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Chamard Vineyards, where you can taste local wines and savor delicious food. The vineyard often hosts events and live music.
Lyme Farmer's Market:
If you're visiting during the right... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Lyme Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Lyme, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 140 ancestors who were born or died in Lyme.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Lyme, Connecticut, USA
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