Journey back in time to Rockville, Connecticut, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Rockville, Connecticut, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Rockville
Rockville, Vernon, Tolland, Connecticut, USA
Rockville is a village in the town of Vernon.
Rockville was settled in 1726, incorporated as a city in 1889, and consolidated with the town of Vernon in 1965. The Snipsic Aqueduct Company was organized in October, 1847 with George Kellogg as the first president and Phineas Talcott first secretary and treasurer. waterworkshistory.us
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VINTAGE ROCKVILLE
Rockville Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Eldredge & Adams Monumental Works Rockville, Conn.
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Bird's Eye View of Rockville, Conn.
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Park Place, Rockville, Conn.
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Prospect Street. Rockville, Conn.
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Rockville High School, 1905
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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The Terraces (In Winter), 1906
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Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Central Fire Station
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Ellington Avenue
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Rock Mfg. Co.
THE ROCK MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
The plant of the Rock Manufacturing Company comprises twelve buildings at the present time. The main mill, which is 300 feet long and five and one-half stories high, attracts the attention of all visitors to the city. The equipment is modern throughout, including one of the finest and most up-to-date finishing departments in the country. The plant is equipped with 11 sets of carding machines, 36 spinning mules, 102 broad looms and 10,000 spindles. The company has a valuable (?) power, having two wheels of 125-horse power each, and also a steam engine of 150-horse power.
The Rock embraces what was formerly the Leeds Mill and lias a large group of buildings on West Main Street. Employment is given to 300 operatives. The yearly output of finished goods amounts to $1,250,000. Some idea of the magnitude of the business may he gained from the fact that the company annually pays to the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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American Woolen Mill
The American Mills Company was organized in the Rockville section of Vernon, Connecticut by Phineas Talcott and Nelson Kingsbury in 1847. The firm manufactured high-quality woolen textiles, such as cassimeres, and occupied a massive six-story stone and wood mill formerly located east of the present plant. At the time of its establishment, the American Mills Company numbered among several other prominent Rockville textile producers, such as the Springville Manufacturing Company on West Main Street, however, it was one of the first operations to benefit from non-local investment. The company also drew a large number of its employees from a large immigrant population, which helped Rockville develop into a bustling industrial center as the textile mills expanded rapidly in the post-Civil War period. The American Mills Company continued to operate and expand its Rockville plant into the early-20th century. In 1918, however, the firm and mill complex were sold to the ... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Residence A. N. Belding, Rockville, Conn. museumofcthistory.org
Rockville, Conn., from Fox Hill, East End museumofcthistory.org
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Rockville from Grand Ave. museumofcthistory.org
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Snipsic Lake
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Main St. in Winter, Looking West
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Methodist Church
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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J. J. Regan Mfg. Co.
THE JAMES J. REGAN MANUFACTURING COMPANY.
The James J. Regan Manufacturing Company, which is one of the town's most important industries, has undergone a marvelous growth since it was organized. Today the concern is recognized as one of the largest in the Inked States in the manufacture of knit goods for linings. It also occupies an enviable position among the woolen good- manufacturers of the country.
The equipment of the two mills, which comprise the plant of the James J. Regan Manufacturing Company, is thoroughly modern, and the product is well known for its high standard of quality and uniformity. The company's policy has been to produce the best in its line. Of late years the business has increased one hundred per cent.
The company operates 50 looms and 10,000 spindles, and its yearly output of cloth is 400,000 yards (woven) and 1,500,000 yards (knit). The company has 350 employees.
The officers of the James J. Began Manufacturing Company ... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Springville Mfg. Co.
THE SPRINGVILLE MANUFACTURING COMPAXY.
The Springville mill, which was established in 1833 by the late Chauncey Winchelh in 1866, just a third of a century later, underwent a wonderful expansion. At that time the property was purchased by the late George Maxwell and the late George Sykes, Avho soon commenced the removal of the old mill, replacing it with a much larger one of stone and brick, 300 feet long and 45 feet wide, with two wings, each 100x50 feet, and all four stories high, equipped with automatic sprinklers and all up-to-date appliances for tire protection. Other buildings are the dyehouse. boiler and engine house, and storehouse, all built of brick and modern and commodious. One hundred horse power is developed by water and 600 by three Large steam boilers. One large 200-horse power engine furnishes the steam power. A 75-horse power dynamo and engine furnish the electric lights. Eight sets of cards and 135 broad looms and 3. .300 spindles... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Residence of Mrs. Thomas Sykes, and Davis Avenue.
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Union Congregational Church and Bank Building
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Union St. looking North
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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The American mills Co., Rockville, Conn.
THE AMERICAN MILLS COMPANY.
Just east of the business center of the city is the main building of the American Mills Company, one of Rockville's industrial landmarks. It is one of the largest buildings used for manufacturing in the city, and is likewise one of the old and substantial concerns, making woolen and worsted goods in Rockville.
The plant, which is an extensive one. turns out an enormous quantity of finished product. It is equipped with the very latest machinery and keeps abreast of the times in every respect. The mill has 86 broad looms, 3 narrow looms. Vt sets of cards, 5,000 spindles. Its employees number 225.
The goods manufactured by the American Mills Company have figured prominently in bringing fame to Rockville as the home of fine woolens and worsteds. Their superior quality has been tested time and time again and found to be of the very highest standard. In addition to its regular line of fine fancy worsteds... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Hockanum Mfg. Co. museumofcthistory.org
In 1906 the Hockanum Mills Company was organized as a holding corporation by the stockholders of the Hockanum, Springville, New England and Minterburn Companies, with a view to centralizing the business. The capital stock is $6,000,000. Under the new plan the four mills combined for the buying of raw material. The selling of the finished product has also been facilitated by the change.
The officers of the Hockanum Mills Company at the present time are:
President— F. T. Maxwell.
Vice-President — Robert Maxwell.
Secretary and Treasurer — William Maxwell.
General Superintendent — David A. Sykes.
Assistant General Superintendent — Charles S. Bottomley.
Assistant Treasurer and Paymaster — A. Park Hammond.
Purchasing Agent — M. C. Mason.
Assistant Paymaster — George B. Hammond.
Office Managers — Hockanum. J. E. Maynard; New England, George B. Hammond; Minterburn, S. Tracy Noble.
This is the youngest of the four companies comprising the Hockanum Mills Company. It occupies the old site of the Rockville Warp Mills Company, being the first plant on the Hockanum Kiver. It was incorporated in 1906, and after tearing down the old and dilapidated buildings on the site, work was commenced on the erection of a handsome, modern concrete construction building, which is likely to stand for a generation. It is the largest mill in the city and one of the finest in New England of concrete construction.
The main building is 300 feet long by 06 feet wide, five stories high. It is equipped with the latest approved automatic sprinklers and an improved steam plant of 250-horse power has been installed in a boiler and engine house in the rear of the main building. A chimney of concrete construction 165 feet high, in connection with the mill, is one of the sights in the east... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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New England Co. Dam. museumofcthistory.org
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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New England Mfg. Co., Rockville, Conn. museumofcthistory.org
THE NEW ENGLAND COMPANY.
The New England's group of buildings on Vernon Avenue include a large frame and brick structure, also dyehouse and boiler house, constituting an important factor in Rockville's industrial life. The finished product amounts to nearly 350,000 yards annually.
The plant will compare favorably with the other plants in the Hockanum Mills Company. Its equipment is first class in every respect, there being 9 sets of cards at the present time. 114 broad looms and 600 spindles. The mill is equipped with dynamos for providing their own light. Power is furnished by steam engines of 225-horse power. Employment is provided for 300 operatives.
The old wooden water wheel, which has been in use at the New England mill since 1860, was used for the last time on Thursday, August 20, 1909. Work commenced on the following day on the tearing out of the old wheel. While the new turbine water wheel was... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Rockville Worsted Co. and Old Stone Mill museumofcthistory.org
THE ROCKVILLE WORSTED COMPANY.
This is Rockville's youngest industry. It is only about a year old. On September 6, 1909, Edmund Corcoran of Philadelphia, a practical woolen manufacturer of many years experience, purchased of A. N. Belding the brick mill on East Main Street, known as the Fitch Mill, which previous to its purchase by Mr. Belding had been part of the James J. Regan Manufacturing Company's plant. In December, 1909. the incorporators of the company organized by elected the following officers: President, Frank E. Weedon; vice-president, Thomas M. Corcoran; secretary. Parley B. Leonard: treasurer, Edmund Corcoran; assistant treasurer, Thomas Corcoran, Jr.
Since purchasing the so-called Fitch Mill. Mr. Corcoran has made numerous changes and what repairs were necessary. The mill was equipped with modern machinery. Already there are 5'-? Knowles looms in operation and 100 hands are employed. It is the ... Read more
The parent mill of Belding Bros. & Co., which is located in this city, was started in 1866, and it has been enlarged and improved from time to time, until today, it bears little likeness to its former self.
On March 30, 1909, Belding Bros. & Co., purchased of the James J. Regan Manufacturing Company the Stone mill, formerly known as the White Mill, and Mill No. 4, formerly known as the Fitch Mill. The latter was sold to Edmond Corcoran of Philadelphia and has been converted into a modern worsted mill. The former mill has been thoroughly overhauled and has been added to the extensive plant of Belding Bros. & Co., in this city. New floors have been put in throughout. All the water has been put onto one water wheel, two new 250-horse power boilers have been installed and a new 350-horse power engine to be used in the event of trouble with the water, or if the water should be low. The entire... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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Rock Manufacturing Co. museumofcthistory.org
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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White Corbin Div. U.S. Envelope Co., Rockville, Conn. museumofcthistory.org
WHITE, CORBIN & CO.
White, Corbin & Co., now one of the divisions of the United States Envelope Company, was established by the late Cyrus White and the late Lewis A. Corbin, pioneer envelope makers of the country. They commenced in 1855 in a small way, manufacturing envelopes in a frame building 83x39 feet, which they erected. The Puffer machine, capable of turning out 10,000 envelopes a day, which was considered a wonderful output, was used. The business in those days amounted to about $8,000 per annum. Today a business of $600,000 yearly is done and the machines produce 2,000,000 envelopes per day.
The late William H. Prescott, whose services as bookkeeper and accountant had made him indispensable to the firm, was admitted to partnership in 1866, the firm's name becoming White, Corbin & Co. Under the skillful guidance of Mr. Prescott, following the retirement of Mr. White in 1870, the... Read more
Rockville, Connecticut, USA
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The Hof Brau Haus
GENEALOGY SHOP
Genealogy Gifts & Finds
Discover gifts inspired by Rockville, plus books and genealogy resources for exploring your family history.
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.
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.
In 1821, Colonel Francis McLean built the first textile mill in what is now Rockville in partnership with George and Allyn Kellogg and Ralph Talcott, next to a spot known as "the Rock" with capital of $16,000.
For some years Colonel Francis McLean had fostered many and varied enterprises. He was a man of great mental vigor and the possessor of an indomitable will. In his youth there was evident this same intensity of character. Work, heavy and constant on his father's farm, developed a physique of great power. Referring to his military service, the Colonel remarks : "At 18 years old I became a soldier, then was chosen corporal, then a sergeant, orderly sergeant, ensign, lieutenant, captain, major, and at last colonel." He adds : "I went up too fast from one office to another for my good." This was the caliber of a leading spirit — generous, high-minded, and firm in principle. Such nobility became the bulwark of the early institutions of our town. In 1821 Colonel McLean, George and Allen Kellogg and Ralph Talcott organized for the regular manufacture of satinets. They erected a building 80x30 and three stories high, on the present Rock Site. This structure loomed up so mightily and was...
Rockville, a flourishing post-village in Vernon township, Tolland co. of Connecticut, on Hockanum river, about 12 miles N. E. from Hartford. It contains 4 churches, 7 stores, and 2 excellent academies. Capital invested in woollen and cotton manufactures, $500,000.
The common council has submitted its best offer to the local gas company for lighting the streets with electric lights. The amount is considerable more than what the Westinghouse electric company offers to furnish the lights for, and unless the local company accepts the terms it is probable that the Westinghouse company will receive the contract.
genealogybank.com
Springfield Republican
Springfield, Massachusetts
February 09, 1890
1895 - Rockville
Rockville, a flourishing city in Vernon township, Tolland co., Conn., 15 miles E.N.E. of Hartford. The Rockville Branch Railroad, which is 4 or 5 miles long, connects at Vernon with the New York & New England Railroad, and another branch railroad connects at Melrose. Rockville has abundant water-power, supplied by Snipsie Lake, the outlet of which (Hockanum River) has here a fall of 280 feet. It contains 6 churches, 2 opera-houses, a high school, 2 national banks, 2 other banks, 2 newspaper offices, 1 cotton- and 5 woollen-mills, gas- and electric-lighting. works, and manufactures of silk, stockinet, and envelopes. Pop. 8000.
ROCKVILLE, Conn., July 4. - George Weber may lose his sight through the premature discharge of a bottle of powder. The boy had this morning filled the bottle with powder and attached a fuse, which he lighted. He received the entire charge in the face and was shockingly wounded.
The New York Times
New York, New York
July 5, 1896
1900 - BOY DROWNED AT ROCKVILLE - Searching Party Finds His Body After Dragging a String of Lakes.
Rockville, Conn., June 20.- The body of Barney Fynol, 14 years old was found in Adams Mill pond here just before noon today. The lad had been missing since yesterday afternoon. The last seen of the young Fynol was when he returned from school yesterday afternoon. Shortly after reaching home he strolled off and as there was a circus in town nothing was though of his absence at first, but then at eleven he did not return his parents became extremely anxious. It was then learned that he had taken his fishing pole with him.
A searching party was organized and proceeded soon after daylight to a string of lakes, the first of which is Adams Pond. On the bank of the pond was found his fishing pole, and floating on the water was the youngster’s cap. Parties began dragging the lake and at eleven o’clock this morning the searching party with the aid of an iron rake pulled the body to the surface.
New Haven Register
New Haven, Connecticut
June 20, 1900
1906
Rockville, a city of Tolland co., Conn., 15 miles NE. of Hartford, on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R. It has abundant water-power, supplied by Snipsic Lake, the outlet of which is the Hockanum RIver. The city has cotton and woollen-mills and manufactures of silk and envelopes. Pop. in 1900, 7287.
Here's a list of some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy in and around Rockville:
Vernon Rails-to-Trails: If you enjoy walking, running, or biking, the Vernon Rails-to-Trails is a fantastic option. This trail system follows the path of a former railway, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts.
Henry Park: Henry Park is a lovely spot for a family picnic, a game of frisbee, or a leisurely stroll. It features a playground, sports fields, and a pond where you can feed the ducks.
New England Civil War Museum: Located in Rockville's historic district, this museum houses an impressive collection of Civil War artifacts and memorabilia. History buffs will find this museum fascinating.
Rockville Historic District: Take a walk through the charming streets of Rockville's historic district and admire the well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The district is home to beautiful old homes, churches, and the town green.
Hockanum River Linear Park: This park offers a peaceful natural setting with walking trails along the Hockanum River. ...
History of Rockville, Connecticut, USA
, 1906){kind=small}
 power, having two wheels of 125-horse power each,
and also a steam engine of 150-horse power.
The Rock embraces what was formerly the Leeds Mill and lias a large group of buildings on West Main Street. Employment is given to 300 operatives. The yearly output of finished goods amounts to $1,250,000. Some idea of the magnitude of the business may he gained from the fact that the company annually pays to the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad Company about $12,000 in freight charges.
The Rock Manufacturing Company's product, fine coatings, thibets, coverts and uniform cloths, are known far and wide for their tine texture, splendid quality and general excellence.
The Rock Manufacturing Company made the cloth worn by President Benjamin Harrison and Vice-President Levi P. Morton at the centennial celebration of the inauguration of George Washington as president of the United States in New York City, April 30, 1889.
The cloth is what is known as a "Clay Twill." It was made from a very fine grade of worsted yarn. There were six thousand seven hundred ends and one hundred and twelve picks of filling to the inch, the dye being alozarine.
Frederick Swindells, a thoroughly practical man in the woolen business, familiar with every detail of manufacture, has been with the company since 1891, first as superintendent and then as agent. He has been president of the company since 1905. Arthur T. Bissell is the secretary and treasurer and Frederick W. Swindells, son of the president, is the superintendent of the mill.
Two buildings, 180x44, one story high, of regular mill construction, were completed in July, 1909. These are used for finishing purposes.
A two-story regular mill construction building, 80x30 feet in size, fire proof, was completed in December, 1909. This is being used for a storehouse.
A CENTURY OF Vernon, Connecticut 1808—1908
PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF SPECIAL HISTORICAL COMMITTEE.
ROCKVILLE, CONN.
PRESS OF T. F. RADY & COMPANY
JAN. 1911 ){kind=small}
 and 1,500,000 yards (knit). The company has 350 employees.
The officers of the James J. Began Manufacturing Company are: President and treasurer, Francis J. Regan; vice-president and assistant treasurer, Herbert J. Regan. George C. Rice has been with the company for a number of years as bead book-
keeper and is a trustworthy and valuable employee.
A CENTURY OF Vernon, Connecticut 1808—1908
PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF SPECIAL HISTORICAL COMMITTEE.
ROCKVILLE, CONN.
PRESS OF T. F. RADY & COMPANY
JAN. 1911
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