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History of Derby, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Derby, Connecticut, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Derby, Connecticut, USA.
About Derby
In 1819, the first industrial training school was established in Derby by Josiah Holbrook.
Derby is Connecticut's smallest town. courant.com
Derby is known for its scenic beauty, with the Housatonic River running through it, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Historically, Derby was a hub for manufacturing, particularly in the areas of textiles, metalworking, and electronics. While the industrial landscape has changed over the years, the city still maintains a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
In terms of cultural attractions, Derby has museums, historic sites, and landmarks that showcase its heritage and significance in American history. The Osborne Homestead Museum, located in Derby, is the former residence of a prominent industrialist and is now a museum open to the public.
Derby Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to DERBY

CONNECTICUT Gift Idea - Apizza, Burger on Toast, White Clam Pizza - I Love Connecticut! - CT Mug for Genealogists Family History
Featuring iconic local delicacies, the design of this mug captures the essence of Connecticut's food culture. It pays homage to the Apizza, a unique and mouthwatering pizza style that originated in New Haven. The legendary Louis' Lunch Burger, said to be the birthplace of the hamburger, is also prominently featured. And of course, there's a nod to the classic White Clam Pizza, a coastal favorite that's a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.

SAVIN ROCK, CT Memories - Vintage Amusement Park Connecticut Postcards Ceramic Mug
Take a nostalgic trip to Connecticut’s beloved Savin Rock amusement park with this charming ceramic mug. Featuring vintage-inspired images and iconic landmarks, it’s perfect for reminiscing about summer days, family outings, and the golden age of amusement parks.

CONNECTICUT Roots Mug: Bed-and-Breakfast Enthusiast Edition
Start your day with a sip of history and charm from our Connecticut-inspired ceramic mug, proudly proclaiming: "My ancestors came from Connecticut, that explains a lot about my love for charming bed-and-breakfasts and discussing the nuances of colonial architecture." This delightful mug is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life, like cozy mornings at quaint inns and lively conversations about the elegance of colonial design.
Discover Derby: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Derby through the years.
New Haven county. The Indian name of this town was Paugasset. It was purchased of the Indians, and incorporated in 1675. The surface of the town is uneven, with some fertile meadow on the banks of the rivers. Derby is watered by the Housatonick and Naugatuck rivers. Derby Landing, Smithville, and Humpherysville, are the principal places of business.
The Landing is on the east side of the Housatonick, just below the junction of that river with the Naugatuck, and is 8 miles N.W. from New Haven, and 14 from the mouth of the river at Stratford on Long Island Sound. Vessels of 10 feet draught of water can pass to the Landing, from which wood and other commodities are transported by water.
Smithville is located in view of the Landing, and commands a beautiful prospect. It has extensive manufactures of copper, in sheets and wire, augurs, carriage springs and axletrees, and other operations by the waters of the Naugatuck, passing through a canal of about a mile in...
Show more local history, news & stories
Special to The New York Times.
DERBY, Conn., April 9. - When making a trip from Bridgeport to Waterbury early to-day over the tracks of the New York, Hew Haven & Hartford Railroad, Freight Engine 468 of the mogul type, blew up at Wheeler's Farms, three miles below Derby. The engine was drawing a train of thirty-five loaded cars, and the three forward cars were destroyed.
Some of the trainment[sic] jumped, and one of them, James Templeton, a brakeman of New Haven, suffered a fractured skull. Harry W. Kowe, the fireman, of Winsted, although badly scalded about the back and suffering extreme pain, walked from the scene of the accident to Naugatuck Junction, from which place he was taken to the hospital at Bridgeport. Frank Gilbert, engineers of Waterbury, was scalded about the hands.
The locomotive was completely wrecked, and the debris strewn about over the tracks, while the roadbed was also torn up for some...
Seymour Land Trust: If you're a nature enthusiast, you'll love exploring the Seymour Land Trust's various hiking trails. It's a great place for birdwatching, photography, and getting in touch with the natural beauty of the area.
Indian Well State Park: Just a short drive from Derby, this state park is a favorite spot for swimming, picnicking, and fishing. The park's namesake, the "Indian Well," is a waterfall and rock formation worth seeing.
Griffin Hospital Nature Trail: This nature trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or jog. It's a hidden gem that's popular among locals for its peaceful surroundings.
Ansonia Nature Center: Located nearby in Ansonia, this nature center is a great place for families. They offer...
Discover YOUR Roots: Derby Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Derby through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Derby, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 339 ancestors who were born or died in Derby.
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