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History of Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
Visit Cheshire, Connecticut, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.Cheshire Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
Postcard

Waverly Inn, Cheshire, Connecticut
The Waverly Inn, located at 286 Maple Ave., was built in 1896 and "has been a staple in Cheshire since the 19th century." It closed in 2019. patch.com

Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
Postcard

Ball and Socket Factory, Cheshire, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org
The Cheshire Manufacturing Company was incorporated on April 11, 1850, for the purpose of "the manufacture, selling and dealing in buttons of every description." In 1901, the company merged with the Ball & Socket Fastener Company of New Hampshire and became The Ball & Socket Manufacturing Company. Averaging 2.5 million gross tons per year at its peak, Ball & Socket became one of the world's largest manufacturers of metal buttons. The company even maintained a sales office and stock room at 10 West 32nd Street in the heart of New York City's garment district. For many years, it was the largest employer in Cheshire, its workforce including many women who found their first employment there. According to a local historian, there was a common saying in Cheshire that "sooner or later, everyone works at the Button Shop." After 144 years in business, changing markets brought an end to manufacturing at the site. Factory... Read MORE...
Discover Cheshire: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1780 - Once part of Wallingford and known as North Farms, Cheshire separated from Wallingford in 1780 and incorporated as a town.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ cheshire/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ cheshire/
1819 - Cheshire
Cheshire is a post township, situated in the northern section of the county, 25 miles from Hartford, and 13 from New-Haven, bounded on the north by Wolcott, and Southington, in Hartford county, on the east by Meriden and Wallingford, on the south by Woodbridge and Hamden, and on the west by Waterbury. Its average length from north to south is 7 miles, and its average breadth from east to west, nearly 6 miles; containing about 40 square miles. The northeastern section of the town is watered by Quinipiack; its northern section by a branch of this stream, called ten mile river; and its southern section several branches of Mill river have their sources...
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island: Written with Care and Impartiality, from Original and Authentic Materials : Consisting of Two Parts ... with an Accurate and Improved Map of Each State Authors John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles Publisher W.S. Marsh, 1819
Cheshire is a post township, situated in the northern section of the county, 25 miles from Hartford, and 13 from New-Haven, bounded on the north by Wolcott, and Southington, in Hartford county, on the east by Meriden and Wallingford, on the south by Woodbridge and Hamden, and on the west by Waterbury. Its average length from north to south is 7 miles, and its average breadth from east to west, nearly 6 miles; containing about 40 square miles. The northeastern section of the town is watered by Quinipiack; its northern section by a branch of this stream, called ten mile river; and its southern section several branches of Mill river have their sources...
A Gazetteer of the States of Connecticut and Rhode-Island: Written with Care and Impartiality, from Original and Authentic Materials : Consisting of Two Parts ... with an Accurate and Improved Map of Each State Authors John Chauncey Pease, John Milton Niles Publisher W.S. Marsh, 1819
1839 - Cheshire
Cheshire, Connecticut
New Haven county. Taken from Wallingford in 1780. It lies 14 miles N. from New Haven and 25 S.E. from Hartford. Population, 1830, 1,780. The Quinnipiac river and Farmington canal pass through the town. Cheshire has an uneven, but good soil, with a very pleasant village, and an Episcopal academy, 54 by 34 feet;—a brick building of considerable taste. Agriculture is the chief occupation of the inhabitants.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
Cheshire, Connecticut
New Haven county. Taken from Wallingford in 1780. It lies 14 miles N. from New Haven and 25 S.E. from Hartford. Population, 1830, 1,780. The Quinnipiac river and Farmington canal pass through the town. Cheshire has an uneven, but good soil, with a very pleasant village, and an Episcopal academy, 54 by 34 feet;—a brick building of considerable taste. Agriculture is the chief occupation of the inhabitants.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
1850 - George Downes, of Cheshire, Ct. discovered that a young lady whom he loved was receiving the attentions of another, went to her house, sat in a melancholy mood for hours, and then drew a pistol and shot himself.
Though seriously wounded, it is thought the will recover from the pistol shot. As to the other wound, we presume he has already gotten over that.
genealogybank.com
Boston Evening Transcript
Boston, Massachusetts
December 28, 1850
Though seriously wounded, it is thought the will recover from the pistol shot. As to the other wound, we presume he has already gotten over that.
genealogybank.com
Boston Evening Transcript
Boston, Massachusetts
December 28, 1850
1854 - Cheshire
Cheshire, a post-township of New Haven county, Connecticut, on the Canal railroad, 16 miles N. from New Haven. Population, 1626.
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.
Cheshire, a post-township of New Haven county, Connecticut, on the Canal railroad, 16 miles N. from New Haven. Population, 1626.
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.
1859
CHESHIRE, a township in New Haven co., in Connecticut, 25 m. SSW of Hartford on the Quinepiac river. Pop. 1,529.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
CHESHIRE, a township in New Haven co., in Connecticut, 25 m. SSW of Hartford on the Quinepiac river. Pop. 1,529.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
1895 - Cheshire
Cheshire, a post-village of New Haven co., Conn., in Cheshire township, with a station 1 mile distant on the New Haven & Northampton Railroad, 16 miles N. of New Haven. It has 3 churches, an academy, and manufactures of buttons, brass, watches, and edge-tools. Pop. of the township, 1929.
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
Cheshire, a post-village of New Haven co., Conn., in Cheshire township, with a station 1 mile distant on the New Haven & Northampton Railroad, 16 miles N. of New Haven. It has 3 churches, an academy, and manufactures of buttons, brass, watches, and edge-tools. Pop. of the township, 1929.
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
1910 - Cheshire Correctional Institution (Connecticut State Prison) opened in 1910 in Cheshire
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ cheshire/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ cheshire/
1916
Cheshire, a post-village of New Haven co., Conn., in Cheshire township (town), 18 miles N. of New Haven. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1989.
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
Cheshire, a post-village of New Haven co., Conn., in Cheshire township (town), 18 miles N. of New Haven. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1989.
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
1946 - 16 Persons Die Friday Morning in Plane Crash
CHESHIRE, Conn. - (UP) - An Eastern airlines plane caught fire in flight Friday and crashed in flames in a wooded patch near the state reformatory killing its 13 passengers and crew of three.
The plane was enroute from New York to Boston when the crash occurred. There were no survivors state police reported.
The bodies of three women were found among the victims. An identification disc bearing the name 'F. W. Bassett Pan-American Airway,' was found at the wreckage.
Eyewitnesses reported that the twin engined airliner caught fire as it passed over Cheshire.
With smoke trailing behind the plane, the pilot apparently tried desperately to set the plane down in an emergency landing. But then an explosion shook the plane.
Describe Plane Crash
C. A. Goddard, president of the Ball & Socket co., said when the explosion occurred 'the wings of the plane folded and the plane came straight down.'
Peter Ricco, an overseas veteran, saw the plane catch fire. He ran to the scene... Read MORE...
CHESHIRE, Conn. - (UP) - An Eastern airlines plane caught fire in flight Friday and crashed in flames in a wooded patch near the state reformatory killing its 13 passengers and crew of three.
The plane was enroute from New York to Boston when the crash occurred. There were no survivors state police reported.
The bodies of three women were found among the victims. An identification disc bearing the name 'F. W. Bassett Pan-American Airway,' was found at the wreckage.
Eyewitnesses reported that the twin engined airliner caught fire as it passed over Cheshire.
With smoke trailing behind the plane, the pilot apparently tried desperately to set the plane down in an emergency landing. But then an explosion shook the plane.
Describe Plane Crash
C. A. Goddard, president of the Ball & Socket co., said when the explosion occurred 'the wings of the plane folded and the plane came straight down.'
Peter Ricco, an overseas veteran, saw the plane catch fire. He ran to the scene... Read MORE...
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Cheshire:
Lock 12 Historical Park: This park is a great place to start your journey in Cheshire. It features a restored 19th-century lockkeeper's house, scenic walking trails along the Farmington Canal, and historical displays that showcase the town's past.
Cheshire Historic District: Take a stroll through the historic district, which boasts beautifully preserved homes and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The architectural charm and picturesque streets make for a pleasant walk.
Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: If you enjoy outdoor activities, this multi-use trail is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or even rollerblading. It follows the route of the historic Farmington Canal and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Bartlem Park: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, Bartlem Park has something for everyone. You'll find sports fields, playgrounds, a swimming pool, picnic areas, and even a skate park. It's a great place for families to spend a sunny... Read MORE...
Lock 12 Historical Park: This park is a great place to start your journey in Cheshire. It features a restored 19th-century lockkeeper's house, scenic walking trails along the Farmington Canal, and historical displays that showcase the town's past.
Cheshire Historic District: Take a stroll through the historic district, which boasts beautifully preserved homes and buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. The architectural charm and picturesque streets make for a pleasant walk.
Farmington Canal Heritage Trail: If you enjoy outdoor activities, this multi-use trail is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or even rollerblading. It follows the route of the historic Farmington Canal and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Bartlem Park: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, Bartlem Park has something for everyone. You'll find sports fields, playgrounds, a swimming pool, picnic areas, and even a skate park. It's a great place for families to spend a sunny... Read MORE...
Discover MY Roots: Cheshire Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 109 ancestors who were born or died in Cheshire.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Cheshire, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Cheshire.View Them Now
Genealogy Resources for Cheshire
Our Cheshire Gift Ideas


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, Connecticut Memories Vintage Postcard Ceramic Mug
Introducing the Memories of Savin Rock ceramic postcard mug, a charming tribute to the iconic amusement park in Connecticut! This 11-ounce ceramic coffee mug is a delightful blend of nostalgia and functionality. Featuring a vintage-inspired design, the mug showcases iconic images and landmarks from Savin Rock amusement park, evoking fond memories of days gone by.

My 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.

Patriotic Memories: Memorial Day Vintage Postcard Coffee Mug
Remembering the Brave, Honoring the Fallen Celebrate the spirit of Memorial Day with this stunning ceramic coffee mug featuring vintage postcards commemorating the holiday. Perfect for honoring the brave men and women who served, this mug is both a functional keepsake and a nostalgic work of art. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an afternoon tea, this dishwasher-safe and microwave-friendly mug is a timeless way to show your patriotism. Ideal as a gift for veterans, history buffs, or anyone who cherishes American traditions, this mug makes Memorial Day even more meaningful.
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