Seasonal stories & historical reading
History of Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Also known as(Aspinock)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Putnam, Connecticut, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Putnam
Putnam, Windham, Connecticut, USA
Originally known as Aspinock, then part of Killingly, Putnam was incorporated in 1855, carved out of Killingly, Pomfret, and Thompson and named in honor of General Israel Putnam of Revolutionary War fame. Some of the early settlers led the expansion to the Northwest Territory in 1787.
One of the first cotton mills in the country was built here in 1806. With the availability of waterpower and the opening of the railroad in 1840, textile industries flourished. After the mill district was ravaged by the flood of 1955, the Industrial area of Putnam was rebuilt.
putnamct.us
Originally known as Aspinock, then part of Killingly, Putnam was incorporated in 1855, carved out of Killingly, Pomfret, and Thompson and named in honor of General Israel Putnam of Revolutionary War fame. Some of the early settlers led the expansion to the Northwest Territory in 1787.
One of the first cotton mills in the country was built here in 1806. With the availability of waterpower and the opening of the railroad in 1840, textile industries flourished. After the mill district was ravaged by the flood of 1955, the Industrial area of Putnam was rebuilt.
putnamct.us
Have family roots in Putnam?Add your family to this place
VINTAGE VIDEO
Postcards and Memories of Putnam, Connecticut, USASubscribe on YouTube
MAP
Use the map to explore this place and its surroundings.
VINTAGE PUTNAM
Putnam Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Advertisement
 - A. M. Parker
Wholesale & Retail Dealer in
Boots, Shoes & Rubbers
Houghton's Block
Putnam, Conn.){kind=small}
A. M. Parker
Wholesale & Retail Dealer in
Boots, Shoes & Rubbers
Houghton's Block
Putnam, Conn.
Wholesale & Retail Dealer in
Boots, Shoes & Rubbers
Houghton's Block
Putnam, Conn.
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Advertisement
 - C. C. C.
Connecticut Clothing Co.
Bates & Lindsey
Putnam, Conn.
Southbridge, Mass.
In 1884, Col. Gustavus Davis Bates established the Connecticut Clothing co., in Putnam, with a branch at Southbridge, Mass., the firm name being Bates & Lindsey. In 1893, they sold out the Putnam store, and that in Southbridge in 1895.
Commemorative Biographical Record of Tolland and Windham Counties, Connecticut
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens and of Many of the Early Settled Families · Part 1
1903){kind=small}
C. C. C.
Connecticut Clothing Co.
Bates & Lindsey
Putnam, Conn.
Southbridge, Mass.
In 1884, Col. Gustavus Davis Bates established the Connecticut Clothing co., in Putnam, with a branch at Southbridge, Mass., the firm name being Bates & Lindsey. In 1893, they sold out the Putnam store, and that in Southbridge in 1895.
Commemorative Biographical Record of Tolland and Windham Counties, Connecticut
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens and of Many of the Early Settled Families · Part 1
1903
Connecticut Clothing Co.
Bates & Lindsey
Putnam, Conn.
Southbridge, Mass.
In 1884, Col. Gustavus Davis Bates established the Connecticut Clothing co., in Putnam, with a branch at Southbridge, Mass., the firm name being Bates & Lindsey. In 1893, they sold out the Putnam store, and that in Southbridge in 1895.
Commemorative Biographical Record of Tolland and Windham Counties, Connecticut
Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens and of Many of the Early Settled Families · Part 1
1903
Read more about Gustavus Davis BATES
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - War Memorial Bridge, Putnam, Conn.){kind=small}
War Memorial Bridge, Putnam, Conn.
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church and Rectory, Putnam, Conn.){kind=small}
St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church and Rectory, Putnam, Conn.
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Cargill Falls. Putnam, Conn.){kind=small}
Cargill Falls. Putnam, Conn.
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Fair Grounds){kind=small}
Fair Grounds
Show more vintage photos, ads & postcards
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - River Scene, Putnam, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org){kind=small}
River Scene, Putnam, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org
museumofcthistory.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Grove Street){kind=small}
Grove Street
 - Israel Putnam School){kind=small}
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Elm Street, 1906){kind=small}
Elm Street, 1906
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Powhatan & Putnam Mfg. Mills, 1906
museumofcthistory.org){kind=small}
Powhatan & Putnam Mfg. Mills, 1906
museumofcthistory.org
museumofcthistory.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Church St. Looking North){kind=small}
Church St. Looking North
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Main Street, Looking South, 1907){kind=small}
Main Street, Looking South, 1907
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Baptist Church, 1907){kind=small}
Baptist Church, 1907
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Main Street, 1907){kind=small}
Main Street, 1907
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Methodist Church and Parsonage, 1908){kind=small}
Methodist Church and Parsonage, 1908
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Hammond & Knowlton, Silk Mill, 1909
"The manufacture of silk goods was introduced in Putnam by Messrs. G. A. Hammond and C. C. Knowlton, January 1st, 1875. Land and building on, the flat below the falls was procured from Mr. G. M. Morse, one of the contracting parties, and great pains taken with all the initiatory arrangements for this novel enterprise. About thirty girls were ready to begin work, attracted by the inherent fascination of silken fabrics for the feminine mind-with a sufficient number of experienced workmen to instruct and aid. With new machinery, skilled labor and unwearied pains the mill was successfully set in motion, and bales of silken filaments from Japan and China wrought into substantial sewing-silk and twist for American use. The process. though not difficult, required a nicety of touch and observation, and many applicants failed to meet these conditions, but in time all difficulties were overcome and many women and girls rejoiced in the establishment of this agreeable and remunerative industry. At the close of their first decade the Putnam Silk Mills report continued progress and prosperity. In 1885 the business had so outgrown accommodations that the old mill was rented and the works and machinery moved into a large three-story building in the same vicinity, furnishing ample room, abundant light and every convenience. About a hundred and twenty-five operatives, including ninety girls, are steadily employed. A visitor to the mills is struck by the order, neatness and apparent cheerfulness of its inmates. The process by which the slender spinnings of the silk worm are transformed into familiar silk and twist and heavy braid is a marvel of mechanical skill and ingenuity. The weekly product is sent immediately to market, through their own agent, no ” middle men ” being employed by this firm, and the experiment of silk manufacture in Putnam has proved a financial benefit to all concerned..." connecticutgenealogy.com){kind=small}
Hammond & Knowlton, Silk Mill, 1909
"The manufacture of silk goods was introduced in Putnam by Messrs. G. A. Hammond and C. C. Knowlton, January 1st, 1875. Land and building on, the flat below the falls was procured from Mr. G. M. Morse, one of the contracting parties, and great pains taken with all the initiatory arrangements for this novel enterprise. About thirty girls were ready to begin work, attracted by the inherent fascination of silken fabrics for the feminine mind-with a sufficient number of experienced workmen to instruct and aid. With new machinery, skilled labor and unwearied pains the mill was successfully set in motion, and bales of silken filaments from Japan and China wrought into substantial sewing-silk and twist for American use. The process. though not difficult, required a nicety of touch and observation, and many applicants failed to meet these conditions, but in time all difficulties were overcome and many women and girls rejoiced in the establishment of this ... Read more
"The manufacture of silk goods was introduced in Putnam by Messrs. G. A. Hammond and C. C. Knowlton, January 1st, 1875. Land and building on, the flat below the falls was procured from Mr. G. M. Morse, one of the contracting parties, and great pains taken with all the initiatory arrangements for this novel enterprise. About thirty girls were ready to begin work, attracted by the inherent fascination of silken fabrics for the feminine mind-with a sufficient number of experienced workmen to instruct and aid. With new machinery, skilled labor and unwearied pains the mill was successfully set in motion, and bales of silken filaments from Japan and China wrought into substantial sewing-silk and twist for American use. The process. though not difficult, required a nicety of touch and observation, and many applicants failed to meet these conditions, but in time all difficulties were overcome and many women and girls rejoiced in the establishment of this ... Read more
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - New Depot){kind=small}
New Depot
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Elm Street, 1910){kind=small}
Elm Street, 1910
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Main Street, 1910){kind=small}
Main Street, 1910
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Railroad Bridge, 1910){kind=small}
Railroad Bridge, 1910
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - South Main St.){kind=small}
South Main St.
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - A Scene from Long Bridge Looking North, Showing the Eureka Silk Mfg. Co.
museumofcthistory.org){kind=small}
A Scene from Long Bridge Looking North, Showing the Eureka Silk Mfg. Co.
museumofcthistory.org
museumofcthistory.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Nightingale Mill
museumofcthistory.org
"G. C. Nightingale and C. Allen built this mill in 1846. By 1860 M. S. Morse, who had built a cotton mill directly across the stream in 1846, had pooled his holdings with Nightingale and Allen. In 1861 this group built the extant dam (157' long, 18' high, originally stone but substantially built in concrete) to serve the mills (including the Rhodes Mill) on both banks. After building the dam M. S. Morse's involvement with the east-bank mills ended. Nightingale served as chief executive of the firm controlling the east mills while Allen supervised production as agent. A frame wing, since demolished, connected the Nightengale Mill with the northern Rhodes Mill. In 1870 Nightingale Mills employed 60 women, 59 men and 39 children producing sheetings and shirtings on 10,432 spindles and 205 looms. By 1889 control of the east and west mills was again consolidated, with George M. Morse as president of the new firm and Nightingale as treasurer. This arrangement (but not all the people) lasted into the 20th century. A warehouse now occupies the 1841 Rhodes Mill, a plastics firm the 1846 Nightingale Mill. (Roth)..." connecticutmills.org){kind=small}
Nightingale Mill
museumofcthistory.org
"G. C. Nightingale and C. Allen built this mill in 1846. By 1860 M. S. Morse, who had built a cotton mill directly across the stream in 1846, had pooled his holdings with Nightingale and Allen. In 1861 this group built the extant dam (157' long, 18' high, originally stone but substantially built in concrete) to serve the mills (including the Rhodes Mill) on both banks. After building the dam M. S. Morse's involvement with the east-bank mills ended. Nightingale served as chief executive of the firm controlling the east mills while Allen supervised production as agent. A frame wing, since demolished, connected the Nightengale Mill with the northern Rhodes Mill. In 1870 Nightingale Mills employed 60 women, 59 men and 39 children producing sheetings and shirtings on 10,432 spindles and 205 looms. By 1889 control of the east and west mills was again consolidated, with George M. Morse as president of the new firm and Nightingale as treasurer. This... Read more
museumofcthistory.org
"G. C. Nightingale and C. Allen built this mill in 1846. By 1860 M. S. Morse, who had built a cotton mill directly across the stream in 1846, had pooled his holdings with Nightingale and Allen. In 1861 this group built the extant dam (157' long, 18' high, originally stone but substantially built in concrete) to serve the mills (including the Rhodes Mill) on both banks. After building the dam M. S. Morse's involvement with the east-bank mills ended. Nightingale served as chief executive of the firm controlling the east mills while Allen supervised production as agent. A frame wing, since demolished, connected the Nightengale Mill with the northern Rhodes Mill. In 1870 Nightingale Mills employed 60 women, 59 men and 39 children producing sheetings and shirtings on 10,432 spindles and 205 looms. By 1889 control of the east and west mills was again consolidated, with George M. Morse as president of the new firm and Nightingale as treasurer. This... Read more
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Congregational Church, 1911){kind=small}
Congregational Church, 1911
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Day-Kimball Hospital
"Day Kimball Hospital of Windham County opened its doors on September 1, 1894. It was the inspiration of two sisters, Miss Elizabeth and Gertrude Vinton, who had a vision for the “Windham County Infirmary.” Mrs. M. Day Kimball donated $5,000 for the construction of the infirmary building in memory of her recently deceased son, Day Kimball, with the condition that the institution be named after him. Other Kimball family members pledged an additional $4,000, and community members contributed another $1,000. With the $10,000 total donations, Day Kimball Hospital was born..." daykimball.org){kind=small}
Day-Kimball Hospital
"Day Kimball Hospital of Windham County opened its doors on September 1, 1894. It was the inspiration of two sisters, Miss Elizabeth and Gertrude Vinton, who had a vision for the “Windham County Infirmary.” Mrs. M. Day Kimball donated $5,000 for the construction of the infirmary building in memory of her recently deceased son, Day Kimball, with the condition that the institution be named after him. Other Kimball family members pledged an additional $4,000, and community members contributed another $1,000. With the $10,000 total donations, Day Kimball Hospital was born..." daykimball.org
"Day Kimball Hospital of Windham County opened its doors on September 1, 1894. It was the inspiration of two sisters, Miss Elizabeth and Gertrude Vinton, who had a vision for the “Windham County Infirmary.” Mrs. M. Day Kimball donated $5,000 for the construction of the infirmary building in memory of her recently deceased son, Day Kimball, with the condition that the institution be named after him. Other Kimball family members pledged an additional $4,000, and community members contributed another $1,000. With the $10,000 total donations, Day Kimball Hospital was born..." daykimball.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Municipal Building){kind=small}
Municipal Building
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - The John M Dean Pin Factory
museumofcthistory.org
"The John M. Dean Company was originally formed in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1899. John M. Dean was a native of Leads, England and he arrived in the United States during the late-1870s. His firm specialized in the manufacture of metal pins, these with applications ranging from textiles to talking machines. In 1910, Dean relocated the company from Lowell to Putnam, Connecticut, where a new factory was erected on Mechanics Street. Following the move, Dean appointed his son, Charles E. Dean, as president of the firm and he assumed the role of treasurer. His younger son, John M. Dean Jr., served as secretary of the company. Upon settling in Putnam, the range of goods produced by the John M. Dean Company was expanded to include textile pins and talking machine needles, as well as comb, faller, feeder, and card pins used in textile mills. Business increased substantially during the First World War, as many of these goods had previously been produced overseas and their importation was ceased or slowed throughout the conflict. John M. Dean remained associated with the company until the business was sold to the New York, New York-based Otto Heineman Phonograph Supply Company. Charles E. and John M. Dean Jr. were retained as managers of the Putnam plant, which operated as a division of the Otto Heineman Phonograph Supply Company until the later was reorganized as the General Phonograph Corporation in 1919. General Phonograph continued to operate the former John M. Dean Company as a phonograph needle plant into the middle of the 20th century, however, the John M. Dean Company has since been reestablished as an independent firm. The business continues to manufacture pins and other pointed metal products as well as performs secondary processes such as heat treating, polishing, and finishing..." connecticutmills.org){kind=small}
The John M Dean Pin Factory
museumofcthistory.org
"The John M. Dean Company was originally formed in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1899. John M. Dean was a native of Leads, England and he arrived in the United States during the late-1870s. His firm specialized in the manufacture of metal pins, these with applications ranging from textiles to talking machines. In 1910, Dean relocated the company from Lowell to Putnam, Connecticut, where a new factory was erected on Mechanics Street. Following the move, Dean appointed his son, Charles E. Dean, as president of the firm and he assumed the role of treasurer. His younger son, John M. Dean Jr., served as secretary of the company. Upon settling in Putnam, the range of goods produced by the John M. Dean Company was expanded to include textile pins and talking machine needles, as well as comb, faller, feeder, and card pins used in textile mills. Business increased substantially during the First World War, as many of these goods had previously... Read more
museumofcthistory.org
"The John M. Dean Company was originally formed in Lowell, Massachusetts in 1899. John M. Dean was a native of Leads, England and he arrived in the United States during the late-1870s. His firm specialized in the manufacture of metal pins, these with applications ranging from textiles to talking machines. In 1910, Dean relocated the company from Lowell to Putnam, Connecticut, where a new factory was erected on Mechanics Street. Following the move, Dean appointed his son, Charles E. Dean, as president of the firm and he assumed the role of treasurer. His younger son, John M. Dean Jr., served as secretary of the company. Upon settling in Putnam, the range of goods produced by the John M. Dean Company was expanded to include textile pins and talking machine needles, as well as comb, faller, feeder, and card pins used in textile mills. Business increased substantially during the First World War, as many of these goods had previously... Read more
Read more about John Mundy DEAN
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Putnam Woolen Co. No. 1
museumofcthistory.org){kind=small}
Putnam Woolen Co. No. 1
museumofcthistory.org
museumofcthistory.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Morse Mills
museumofcthistory.org
"M. S. Morse and Co. began construction of this mill on the west bank of the Quinebaug River in 1846. Stonemason Lafayette Waters built this mill and the very similar Nightingale and Allen mill across the river, also begun in 1846. Morse and the Nightingale firm combined in 1861 to build the dam, and shared equally the 360 horsepower the dam afforded. After the dam was built Morse withdrew from major involvement with the east-bank mills, but Nightingale retained shares in the Morse operation. In 1870 Morse employed 52 men, 44 women and 29 children to run 9,046 spindles and 200 looms in manufacture of cotton sheetings. By 1889 George M. Morse headed a new firm that controlled the mills on both sides of the river. Frame mill houses stand west of the Morse Mill along Church and Morse Sts. The mill has been converted to a cold storage warehouse. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org){kind=small}
Morse Mills
museumofcthistory.org
"M. S. Morse and Co. began construction of this mill on the west bank of the Quinebaug River in 1846. Stonemason Lafayette Waters built this mill and the very similar Nightingale and Allen mill across the river, also begun in 1846. Morse and the Nightingale firm combined in 1861 to build the dam, and shared equally the 360 horsepower the dam afforded. After the dam was built Morse withdrew from major involvement with the east-bank mills, but Nightingale retained shares in the Morse operation. In 1870 Morse employed 52 men, 44 women and 29 children to run 9,046 spindles and 200 looms in manufacture of cotton sheetings. By 1889 George M. Morse headed a new firm that controlled the mills on both sides of the river. Frame mill houses stand west of the Morse Mill along Church and Morse Sts. The mill has been converted to a cold storage warehouse. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org
museumofcthistory.org
"M. S. Morse and Co. began construction of this mill on the west bank of the Quinebaug River in 1846. Stonemason Lafayette Waters built this mill and the very similar Nightingale and Allen mill across the river, also begun in 1846. Morse and the Nightingale firm combined in 1861 to build the dam, and shared equally the 360 horsepower the dam afforded. After the dam was built Morse withdrew from major involvement with the east-bank mills, but Nightingale retained shares in the Morse operation. In 1870 Morse employed 52 men, 44 women and 29 children to run 9,046 spindles and 200 looms in manufacture of cotton sheetings. By 1889 George M. Morse headed a new firm that controlled the mills on both sides of the river. Frame mill houses stand west of the Morse Mill along Church and Morse Sts. The mill has been converted to a cold storage warehouse. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Putnam Woolen Mills
museumofcthistory.org){kind=small}
Putnam Woolen Mills
museumofcthistory.org
museumofcthistory.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Putnam Inn, E. C. Rogers, Prop., 1923){kind=small}
Putnam Inn, E. C. Rogers, Prop., 1923
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Pouhatan Mills, Putnam, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org
"George M. Morse built Powhatan Mill in 1872. It stands at the upper water privilege on the Quinebaug River in Putnam, about 1,000' upstream from the Morse family's 1846 cotton mill (at 241 Church Street). Hosea Ballou first developed this upper privilege in 1847, erecting a mill (since destroyed) on the west bank, opposite Powhatan. Morse ran 20,000 spindles for cotton manufacture here in 1884. The current occupant, Belding-Corticelli Thread Co., bought Powhatan in 1918. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org){kind=small}
Pouhatan Mills, Putnam, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org
"George M. Morse built Powhatan Mill in 1872. It stands at the upper water privilege on the Quinebaug River in Putnam, about 1,000' upstream from the Morse family's 1846 cotton mill (at 241 Church Street). Hosea Ballou first developed this upper privilege in 1847, erecting a mill (since destroyed) on the west bank, opposite Powhatan. Morse ran 20,000 spindles for cotton manufacture here in 1884. The current occupant, Belding-Corticelli Thread Co., bought Powhatan in 1918. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org
museumofcthistory.org
"George M. Morse built Powhatan Mill in 1872. It stands at the upper water privilege on the Quinebaug River in Putnam, about 1,000' upstream from the Morse family's 1846 cotton mill (at 241 Church Street). Hosea Ballou first developed this upper privilege in 1847, erecting a mill (since destroyed) on the west bank, opposite Powhatan. Morse ran 20,000 spindles for cotton manufacture here in 1884. The current occupant, Belding-Corticelli Thread Co., bought Powhatan in 1918. (Roth)" connecticutmills.org
Putnam, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Annhurst College){kind=small}
Annhurst College
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to PUTNAM
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 Putnam: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Putnam through the years.
1806 - One of the first cotton mills in the country was built in Putnam, CT in 1806
The Cargill Falls Mill, also known historically as the Wilkinson Mill, is a historic textile mill complex at 52-58 Pomfret Street in Putnam, Connecticut. Founded in 1806, it is one of the state's oldest mill complexes, and it retains examples of mill architecture spanning more than 175 years. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. wikipedia
1855 - Putnam, CT is incorporated
Originally known as Aspinock, then part of Killingly, Putnam was incorporated in 1855, carved out of Killingly, Pomfret, and Thompson and named in honor of General Israel Putnam of Revolutionary War fame.
1870 - Interesting Marriage
A clergyman of Putnam, Conn., recently married a couple on the cars, without the other passengers having any knowledge or suspicion of the transaction.
1870 - Putnam Happenings
The new road near Dressers', built by the Boston, Hartford & Erie railroad to prevent a grade crossing, is completed. It makes a heavy grade in the carriage road, but upon the whole is preferable to a grade crossing.
Mr. Martin, depot master, who recently lost his arm upon the road at this place, has recovered sufficiently to be at the depot, but has not yet resumed the duties of his station.
Moses Chandler was afflicted with a partial paralysis of the left arm, on Monday morning, as he sat a the breakfast table. The hand and forearm are entirely paralyzed. He is a man of nearly 70 years of age.
Mr. Martin, depot master, who recently lost his arm upon the road at this place, has recovered sufficiently to be at the depot, but has not yet resumed the duties of his station.
Moses Chandler was afflicted with a partial paralysis of the left arm, on Monday morning, as he sat a the breakfast table. The hand and forearm are entirely paralyzed. He is a man of nearly 70 years of age.
1895 - Putnam
Putnam, a post-village in Putnam township. Windham co, Conn., on the Quinnebaug River, and on the Norwich & Worcester Railroad, at its junction with the Eastern division of the New York & New England Railroad, 33 miles N. by E. of Norwich, and 26 miles S. by W. of Worcester. It contains 7 churches, a national bank, 2 newspaper offices, 5 cotton-factories, 2 woollen-mills, a savings bank, and a high school. Pop. about 2000; of township (1890) 4612.
1899 - Distracted Mother
Mrs. Chauncey Talbot of Putnam, Conn, Drowns Herself and Two-Year Old Boy.
Putnam, Conn., July 12 - Mrs Chauncey Talbot, aged 23 years, the wife of a well-known business man of this place, drowned herself and her 2-year-old boy in the Quinebaug River early this morning. The bodies were recovered later. The young woman left the house with her child some time between the hours of 12 midnight and 3 A. M. There absence was not discovered until four hours later, when a note, which had been left by Mrs Talbot, was found. It stated that her body and that of the boy would be found in the river at a certain point. A search was instantly begun and the two bodies were found at a point not far distant from the spot indicated in the note.
Two months ago an infant child died, and since then the young mother has grieved greatly. It is believed that her mourning made her a victim of the temporary aberration, which culminated in her dead.
Putnam, Conn., July 12 - Mrs Chauncey Talbot, aged 23 years, the wife of a well-known business man of this place, drowned herself and her 2-year-old boy in the Quinebaug River early this morning. The bodies were recovered later. The young woman left the house with her child some time between the hours of 12 midnight and 3 A. M. There absence was not discovered until four hours later, when a note, which had been left by Mrs Talbot, was found. It stated that her body and that of the boy would be found in the river at a certain point. A search was instantly begun and the two bodies were found at a point not far distant from the spot indicated in the note.
Two months ago an infant child died, and since then the young mother has grieved greatly. It is believed that her mourning made her a victim of the temporary aberration, which culminated in her dead.
1906
Putnam, a city and capital of Windham co., Conn., in Putnam township (town), on the Quinnebaug River and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 33 miles NNE. of Norwich. It has extensive manufactures of cotton, woollen, and silk goods, shoes, boxes, iron, etc. Pop. in 1900, 6667; of the town, 7348.
1912 - NOT OVER $100,000. TOTAL LOSS OF INCENDIARY FIRE AT PUTNAM, CONN.
Putnam, Conn., Nov. 22. -- The total loss resulting from the burning of half a dozen or more buildings in the business center of the city, last night will not exceed $100,000, it is estimated today and may be somewhat under that figure. The police say that all the indications are that the fire was set in accordance with a carefully laid plan and search is being made for a man who was to leave the lumber yard of the E. M. Wheaton company, where the fire started about the time it was discovered. The firemen were still pouring water on the smouldering ruins this morning.
Show more local history, news & stories
Whether you're a local looking for some new adventures or a visitor exploring this hidden gem, there are plenty of places to go and things to do in Putnam. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, here's a list to get you started:
Rotary Park: Begin your visit with a relaxing stroll through Rotary Park, located right in the heart of downtown Putnam. It's a beautiful spot to enjoy nature, with a riverwalk, picnic areas, and a gazebo.
Antique Shopping: Putnam is known as the "Antiques Capital of the United States." Explore the numerous antique shops lining Main Street and nearby areas. You might just find a unique treasure from the past.
Day Kimball Hospital Trails: If you're into hiking or just want to enjoy some fresh air, the trails around Day Kimball Hospital offer scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.
The Bradley Playhouse: Catch a show at The Bradley Playhouse. This community theater offers a variety of performances throughout the year, from musicals to dramas.
Bike Riding: Take a bike ride through the picturesque Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail. It's a great way to soak in the natural beauty of the region.
Tour the Putnam Bank Clock Tower: The Putnam Bank Clock Tower is an iconic...
Read more
Antique Shopping: Putnam is known as the "Antiques Capital of the United States." Explore the numerous antique shops lining Main Street and nearby areas. You might just find a unique treasure from the past.
Day Kimball Hospital Trails: If you're into hiking or just want to enjoy some fresh air, the trails around Day Kimball Hospital offer scenic views and a chance to connect with nature.
The Bradley Playhouse: Catch a show at The Bradley Playhouse. This community theater offers a variety of performances throughout the year, from musicals to dramas.
Bike Riding: Take a bike ride through the picturesque Quinebaug Valley Rail Trail. It's a great way to soak in the natural beauty of the region.
Tour the Putnam Bank Clock Tower: The Putnam Bank Clock Tower is an iconic...
GENEALOGY IN PUTNAM
Discover YOUR Roots: Putnam Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Putnam through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Putnam, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 214 ancestors who were born or died in Putnam.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Putnam, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Putnam.
View married ancestorsCONTINUE YOUR RESEARCH
Search Putnam Genealogy
Search by place or by ancestor name to keep exploring families connected to Putnam.
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: 12/14/2025 6:53:52 PM
COMMUNITY
Discussion & Local Contributions
Share corrections, memories, local history, or family connections that may help other researchers.