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History of Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Shelton, Connecticut, USA
(Huntington)
Explore Shelton, 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 Shelton Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
Shelton, Fairfield, Connecticut, USA
Parts of what is now Shelton has previously been called Corum, Ripton and Huntington before being incorporated as the city of Shelton in 1919.
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Shelton Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - The Canal Looking North from Viaduct, Shelton, Conn.
"...the Ousatonic Water Company in 1863 began to construct a dam across the Housatonic River, and after several washouts, it was completed in 1870. Unfortunately, the completed dam washed out in 1891, necessitating a different, sloping apron style of construction for its replacement. The Company then began to promote Huntington as a site for industry, advertising its canal as a source of water power. It rented parcels of its acreage to companies that by 1896 numbered twenty-five. to accommodate the new businesses and to carry their freight, the railroad was extended from Derby in 1888 through Shelton to Newtown. To cross over the canal and railroad, an iron viaduct Bridge was constructed that year as well. In 1899, a trolley line was built in the City, linking Shelton with Derby and nearby towns..." www.electronicvalley.com/ tour /Sheltonhistory.htm){kind=small}
The Canal Looking North from Viaduct, Shelton, Conn.
"...the Ousatonic Water Company in 1863 began to construct a dam across the Housatonic River, and after several washouts, it was completed in 1870. Unfortunately, the completed dam washed out in 1891, necessitating a different, sloping apron style of construction for its replacement. The Company then began to promote Huntington as a site for industry, advertising its canal as a source of water power. It rented parcels of its acreage to companies that by 1896 numbered twenty-five. to accommodate the new businesses and to carry their freight, the railroad was extended from Derby in 1888 through Shelton to Newtown. To cross over the canal and railroad, an iron viaduct Bridge was constructed that year as well. In 1899, a trolley line was built in the City, linking Shelton with Derby and nearby towns..." www.electronicvalley.com/ tour / Sheltonhistory.htm
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Trap Falls Reservoir, Huntington, Conn. Suburb of Bridgeport, Conn.){kind=small}
Trap Falls Reservoir, Huntington, Conn. Suburb of Bridgeport, Conn.
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - View South from Viaduct, Shelton, Conn.){kind=small}
View South from Viaduct, Shelton, Conn.
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Viaduct Square){kind=small}
Viaduct Square
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Oronoque Dam, 1907){kind=small}
Oronoque Dam, 1907
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Methodist Church){kind=small}
Methodist Church
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - M.E. and R.C. Churches){kind=small}
M.E. and R.C. Churches
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Riverview Park, 1911){kind=small}
Riverview Park, 1911
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Coram Ave. from Fairmont Park looking North, 1912){kind=small}
Coram Ave. from Fairmont Park looking North, 1912
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Howe Ave. looking North from Central St., 1912){kind=small}
Howe Ave. looking North from Central St., 1912
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Commodore Hull School, 1915){kind=small}
Commodore Hull School, 1915
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Housatonic River){kind=small}
Housatonic River
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - Howe Avenue at Bridge Street, 1947){kind=small}
Howe Avenue at Bridge Street, 1947
Shelton, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
 - St. Joseph's Church - Convent and School, 1947){kind=small}
St. Joseph's Church - Convent and School, 1947
Celebrate the Holidays with our unique Gift Items
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to SHELTON
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.
Discover Shelton: History, News, Travel, and Stories
1819 - Huntington
Huntington, a post town, is situated on the west side of the Ousatonick river, being 17 miles from New-Haven, and 45 from Hartford. It is bounded north on Newtown, south on Stratford and Trumbull, west on Reading and Weston, and east on the Ousatonick river, which separates the town from Oxford and Derby.
The township is about 10 miles long, from northwest to southeast, and averaging nearly 6 miles miles broad, from east to west, containing an area of about 56 square miles...
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
Huntington, a post town, is situated on the west side of the Ousatonick river, being 17 miles from New-Haven, and 45 from Hartford. It is bounded north on Newtown, south on Stratford and Trumbull, west on Reading and Weston, and east on the Ousatonick river, which separates the town from Oxford and Derby.
The township is about 10 miles long, from northwest to southeast, and averaging nearly 6 miles miles broad, from east to west, containing an area of about 56 square miles...
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
1854 - Huntington
Huntington, a post-township of Fairfield co., Connecticut, on the W. side of the Housatonic river, about 18 miles W. from New Haven. Population, 1301.
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.
Huntington, a post-township of Fairfield co., Connecticut, on the W. side of the Housatonic river, about 18 miles W. from New Haven. Population, 1301.
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.
1875 - Stopping Time
A man in Shelton, Conn., bought a watch at an auction sale. He put it in his pantaloons pocket. When he got home he laid his pantaloons on the floor, and in the night his wife thought she heard a mouse in the room. She got up and reached for it, at last tracing it to the pantaloons, and with a stick pounded the watch all to pieces.
Lowell Daily Citizen and News
Lowell, Massachusetts
April 06, 1875
A man in Shelton, Conn., bought a watch at an auction sale. He put it in his pantaloons pocket. When he got home he laid his pantaloons on the floor, and in the night his wife thought she heard a mouse in the room. She got up and reached for it, at last tracing it to the pantaloons, and with a stick pounded the watch all to pieces.
Lowell Daily Citizen and News
Lowell, Massachusetts
April 06, 1875
1887 - MCARTHY’S FATAL NAP. While Intoxicated He Falls Asleep on the Railroad at Derby and is Run Over.
John McCarthy a moulder employed at DeForest’s iron works at Shelton, while asleep on the track of the Naugatuck railroad at Derby last night was struck by the south bound train which passes that point about 11 o’clock. He was so terribly bruised that it is though impossible for him to live the day out. He had been drinking liquor freely during the night and while in an intoxicated condition wandered on the track and fell asleep near Stilling’s saloon. He resided in Brooklyn but has friends in Naugatuck and his acquaintances speak well of him. He was a young unmarried man.
New Haven Register
New Haven, Connecticut
June 16, 1887
John McCarthy a moulder employed at DeForest’s iron works at Shelton, while asleep on the track of the Naugatuck railroad at Derby last night was struck by the south bound train which passes that point about 11 o’clock. He was so terribly bruised that it is though impossible for him to live the day out. He had been drinking liquor freely during the night and while in an intoxicated condition wandered on the track and fell asleep near Stilling’s saloon. He resided in Brooklyn but has friends in Naugatuck and his acquaintances speak well of him. He was a young unmarried man.
New Haven Register
New Haven, Connecticut
June 16, 1887
1890 - A FATAL CONNECTICUT FIRE.
Shelton, Conn., April 25. - Fire was discovered in the Birmingham Bone Comb manufactory on Division Street, yesterday. The flames spread to the Housatonic Brass Company's building, then to the Radcliff woolen mill, Horace Wheeler's grocery store, Newell's printing establishment and two dwelling houses.
MRS. MARIE SLIE, aged 85 years, who occupied a tenement in the Wheeler building, was burned so terribly before she could be taken from the house that she died in a few hours. MRS. JULIA HOPKINS and LEONARD SMITH were removed from the blazing buildings badly burned.
Eight buildings, with contents, were destroyed, involving a total loss of over $50,000. They were insured to the amount of $30,000. One of the buildings destroyed was an old landmark, which was known as the "LaFayette House" because the famous Frenchman stopped in it for several hours on one of his trips to this country. It was nearly two hundred years old.
Trenton Times
Trenton, New Jersey
April 25, 1890
Shelton, Conn., April 25. - Fire was discovered in the Birmingham Bone Comb manufactory on Division Street, yesterday. The flames spread to the Housatonic Brass Company's building, then to the Radcliff woolen mill, Horace Wheeler's grocery store, Newell's printing establishment and two dwelling houses.
MRS. MARIE SLIE, aged 85 years, who occupied a tenement in the Wheeler building, was burned so terribly before she could be taken from the house that she died in a few hours. MRS. JULIA HOPKINS and LEONARD SMITH were removed from the blazing buildings badly burned.
Eight buildings, with contents, were destroyed, involving a total loss of over $50,000. They were insured to the amount of $30,000. One of the buildings destroyed was an old landmark, which was known as the "LaFayette House" because the famous Frenchman stopped in it for several hours on one of his trips to this country. It was nearly two hundred years old.
Trenton Times
Trenton, New Jersey
April 25, 1890
1894 FREIGHT TRAIN WRECKED.
There was a bad smash-up on the Berkshire division of the Consolidated railroad at the Derby meadows near Shelton and only about 100 feet away from the bridge at 11 o'clock yesterday forenoon. A switching engine attached to some freight cars was backing down grade and was unable to slow up in time to get out of the way of a special freight train that was coming up from the rear.
The presence of the special was discovered in time for the switcher to stop, but the brakes apparently refused to work, and the engine of the freight ran into the tender of the switcher and wrecked it. Eight coal cars were thrown off the spilings into the meadows 20 feet below.
William Keileher, a brakeman, who lives at 25 Hedge street, was caught in the wreck and had one of his arms broken and suffered other internal injuries. He was taken to the hospital. He will recover.
An unsuccessful attempt was made to wreck the fast freight on the Air Line road between midnight and 2 o'clock yesterday... Read MORE...
There was a bad smash-up on the Berkshire division of the Consolidated railroad at the Derby meadows near Shelton and only about 100 feet away from the bridge at 11 o'clock yesterday forenoon. A switching engine attached to some freight cars was backing down grade and was unable to slow up in time to get out of the way of a special freight train that was coming up from the rear.
The presence of the special was discovered in time for the switcher to stop, but the brakes apparently refused to work, and the engine of the freight ran into the tender of the switcher and wrecked it. Eight coal cars were thrown off the spilings into the meadows 20 feet below.
William Keileher, a brakeman, who lives at 25 Hedge street, was caught in the wreck and had one of his arms broken and suffered other internal injuries. He was taken to the hospital. He will recover.
An unsuccessful attempt was made to wreck the fast freight on the Air Line road between midnight and 2 o'clock yesterday... Read MORE...
1895 - Huntington
Huntington, a post-township of Fairfield co., Conn., is bounded on the E. and N.E. by the Housatonic River. It contains a£ named Huntington, which is 13 miles W. of New Haven, and a hamlet named Shelton. It has 2 paper-mills, and manufactures of silverware, brackets, carriage joints, hooks and eyes, &c. Pop. 1527.
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
Huntington, a post-township of Fairfield co., Conn., is bounded on the E. and N.E. by the Housatonic River. It contains a£ named Huntington, which is 13 miles W. of New Haven, and a hamlet named Shelton. It has 2 paper-mills, and manufactures of silverware, brackets, carriage joints, hooks and eyes, &c. Pop. 1527.
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
1895 - Shelton
Shel'ton, a village in Huntington township, Fairfield co., Conn., on the Housatonic River, opposite Birmingham, and + mile from Birmingham Station. It has manufactures of paper, silver-plated goods, hosiery, and pins, P. 1362.
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
Shel'ton, a village in Huntington township, Fairfield co., Conn., on the Housatonic River, opposite Birmingham, and + mile from Birmingham Station. It has manufactures of paper, silver-plated goods, hosiery, and pins, P. 1362.
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
1901 - TORNADO IN CONNECTICUT
Path Swept Through Huntington Village - One Man Fatally Hurt.
Special to The New York Times.
ANSONIA, Conn. Sept. 16. - A tornado that swept in a fifty-foot patch through the farming community of Huntington last evening tore the three-story house of John Frawley from its foundations and turned it completely over. Mr. and Mrs. Frawley, who were at tea, were caught in a mass of debris and Mr. Frawley was fatally hurt.
The wind came with a roar like an express train. Trees were snapped squarely off, barns blown down, and telegraph poles torn from the ground.
The barn of Oscar Hubbell completely disappeared. Not a board has been found. Eight other barns were practically destroyed. A five-acre field of tall corn belonging to Daniel McGuire was left entirely bare of vegetation. That the tornado swept a territory thinly inhabited and with houses well sheltered is all that prevented serious loss of life.
It was accompanied by lightning and torrents of... Read MORE...
Path Swept Through Huntington Village - One Man Fatally Hurt.
Special to The New York Times.
ANSONIA, Conn. Sept. 16. - A tornado that swept in a fifty-foot patch through the farming community of Huntington last evening tore the three-story house of John Frawley from its foundations and turned it completely over. Mr. and Mrs. Frawley, who were at tea, were caught in a mass of debris and Mr. Frawley was fatally hurt.
The wind came with a roar like an express train. Trees were snapped squarely off, barns blown down, and telegraph poles torn from the ground.
The barn of Oscar Hubbell completely disappeared. Not a board has been found. Eight other barns were practically destroyed. A five-acre field of tall corn belonging to Daniel McGuire was left entirely bare of vegetation. That the tornado swept a territory thinly inhabited and with houses well sheltered is all that prevented serious loss of life.
It was accompanied by lightning and torrents of... Read MORE...
1906
Shelton, a post-borough of Fairfield co., Conn., on the Housatonic River, opposite Birmingham. It has various manufactures. Pop. in 1900, 2837.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
Shelton, a post-borough of Fairfield co., Conn., on the Housatonic River, opposite Birmingham. It has various manufactures. Pop. in 1900, 2837.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
1921 - EIGHT DEAD; 25 HURT IN CAR CRASH. TROLLEYS MEET HEAD ON NEAR HIGHBRIDGE, CONN.
EXPLOSION AND FIRE FROM GASOLINE ADDS TO CASUALTY LIST -- 5-GALLON CAN CARRIED IN FRONT VESTIBULE OF CAR -- FOUR OF VICTIMS CHILDREN.
Shelton, Conn., Feb. 22. - Eight persons were burned to death and 25 injured this afternoon when two trolley cars collided head-on on the Bridgeport - Shelton line near High Bridge, in the southern part of this town.
The Dead:
MILTON CHERITREE of Shelton, motorman of the Bridgeport bound car.
EDITH WILKINSON, four years old, of Shelton.
NANCY WILKINSON, three years old, her sister.
FREDA GOLDBERG, 15 years old, of Derby.
HARRY GOLDBERG, 13, her brother.
PETER KOCK, 26, of Shelton.
An unidentified girl and and unidentified woman.
A five gallon can of gasoline, which was in the front part of the Bridgeport-bound trolley car, exploded and caused a fierce fire to burn the two cars, John J. Phelan, coroner of Fairfield county, declared tonight. The coroner expressed the opinion that there would have been no loss of life and probably very few... Read MORE...
EXPLOSION AND FIRE FROM GASOLINE ADDS TO CASUALTY LIST -- 5-GALLON CAN CARRIED IN FRONT VESTIBULE OF CAR -- FOUR OF VICTIMS CHILDREN.
Shelton, Conn., Feb. 22. - Eight persons were burned to death and 25 injured this afternoon when two trolley cars collided head-on on the Bridgeport - Shelton line near High Bridge, in the southern part of this town.
The Dead:
MILTON CHERITREE of Shelton, motorman of the Bridgeport bound car.
EDITH WILKINSON, four years old, of Shelton.
NANCY WILKINSON, three years old, her sister.
FREDA GOLDBERG, 15 years old, of Derby.
HARRY GOLDBERG, 13, her brother.
PETER KOCK, 26, of Shelton.
An unidentified girl and and unidentified woman.
A five gallon can of gasoline, which was in the front part of the Bridgeport-bound trolley car, exploded and caused a fierce fire to burn the two cars, John J. Phelan, coroner of Fairfield county, declared tonight. The coroner expressed the opinion that there would have been no loss of life and probably very few... Read MORE...
2023 - Whether you're interested in exploring the outdoors, enjoying cultural experiences, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Shelton has something for everyone. Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Shelton:
Indian Well State Park:
Start your outdoor adventure at Indian Well State Park, located along the Housatonic River. You can swim, picnic, fish, or hike on the park's trails. The park also offers picturesque views and a peaceful setting for nature enthusiasts.
Shelton Lakes Recreation Path:
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Shelton Lakes Recreation Path, which winds through beautiful natural surroundings and connects several parks in the area. It's a great way to stay active and appreciate Shelton's scenery.
Sports and Recreation:
Shelton has a range of sports facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, and sports fields. The Brownson Country Club and the Highland Golf Club are popular options for golf enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails:
Explore the numerous hiking trails in Shelton, such as the Shelton Lakes Greenway, which offers a mix of woodlands and wetlands. You can also visit the nearby Osbornedale State Park for more hiking options.
Shelton... Read MORE...
Indian Well State Park:
Start your outdoor adventure at Indian Well State Park, located along the Housatonic River. You can swim, picnic, fish, or hike on the park's trails. The park also offers picturesque views and a peaceful setting for nature enthusiasts.
Shelton Lakes Recreation Path:
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Shelton Lakes Recreation Path, which winds through beautiful natural surroundings and connects several parks in the area. It's a great way to stay active and appreciate Shelton's scenery.
Sports and Recreation:
Shelton has a range of sports facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, and sports fields. The Brownson Country Club and the Highland Golf Club are popular options for golf enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails:
Explore the numerous hiking trails in Shelton, such as the Shelton Lakes Greenway, which offers a mix of woodlands and wetlands. You can also visit the nearby Osbornedale State Park for more hiking options.
Shelton... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Shelton Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Shelton, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 37 ancestors who were born or died in Shelton.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Shelton, Connecticut, USA
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