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History of Bethany, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Bethany, Connecticut, USA
Visit Bethany, Connecticut, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.Do You Have Bethany Roots? Share MY Ancestral Story!

Bethany, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
1638 - December 11: Land north of New Haven including eastern Bethany purchased from Montawese and Sawseunck, of the Wangunk Tribe living in the North Haven area; for the next 146 years, eastern Bethany is part of the Town of New Haven.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety / bhs-facts.htm
There is MUCH more to discover about Bethany, Connecticut, USA. Read on!
Discover Bethany: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1664 - (Bethany, CT) - Alexander Bryan of Milford buys Lebanon Swamp (Bethany Bog) in Bethany from Nehantond, a Naugatuck Indian, for 30 shillings;
he sells it to New Haven ten years later. Nehantond seems to be the earliest landowner of record in Bethany area.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
he sells it to New Haven ten years later. Nehantond seems to be the earliest landowner of record in Bethany area.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1700 – Proprietors in Milford purchase from the Paugusset Indians a tract of land in western Bethany between Bladen’s Brook and Lebanon Brook (now called Hockanum Brook).
This tract is known as the Two-Bit Purchase – two bits being the price of a share in the purchase...
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
This tract is known as the Two-Bit Purchase – two bits being the price of a share in the purchase...
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1702 – Proprietors in Milford purchase from the Paugusset Indians a tract of land in northwestern Bethany between Lebanon Brook and the Waterbury line. This tract is known as the One-Bit Purchase.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1717 - Bethany, CT was first settled as part of Woodbridge
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
1738 – Amity Parish is incorporated by the General Assembly of the Connecticut Colony. The Parish territory includes most of the present townships of Bethany and Woodbridge. Amity Parish includes the Two-Bit Purchase but not the One-Bit Purchase.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1762 – The Amity Parish is subdivided and the northern part is incorporated by the General Assembly as the Bethany Parish; it is named for the Biblical village on the Mount of Olives where Jesus Christ raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44).
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1763 - The Bethany Congregational Church is organized and Rev. Stephen Hawley begins his 41-year pastorate.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1769 - (Bethany, CT) - Construction begun on First Meeting House of Congregational Church erected on old Bethany Green (corner of Dayton and Amity Roads). Completed in 1773.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
In 1784, the Connecticut General Assembly incorporated the Bethany Parish into the town of Woodbridge.
connecticuthistory.org/ bethany-small-town-perseverance- in-the-face-of-growing-industrialization
connecticuthistory.org/ bethany-small-town-perseverance- in-the-face-of-growing-industrialization
1831 – The First Church of Christ Congregational in Bethany Center is completed...
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1832 - Bethany was incorporated as a town in 1832.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
1839 - Bethany
Bethany, Connecticut
New Haven county. Taken from Woodbridge in 1832. It lies 10 miles N. by W. from New Haven. Some portions of this town is good land and well cultivated, but a large part of it is mountainous, and fit only for growth of wood. Beacon mountain, between Bethany and Naugatuck river, presents some wild and picturesque features.
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
Bethany, Connecticut
New Haven county. Taken from Woodbridge in 1832. It lies 10 miles N. by W. from New Haven. Some portions of this town is good land and well cultivated, but a large part of it is mountainous, and fit only for growth of wood. Beacon mountain, between Bethany and Naugatuck river, presents some wild and picturesque features.
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
1840 - 1,170 people live in Bethany according to the U.S. Census
1844 - (Bethany, CT) - In 1844, an act of legislature took the town’s Straitsville area, along with parts of Waterbury and Oxford, to form Naugatuck.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ bethany/
1854 - Bethany
Bethany, a post-township of New Haven county, Connecticut, 8 miles N. by W. from New Haven. Population, 914.
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.
Bethany, a post-township of New Haven county, Connecticut, 8 miles N. by W. from New Haven. Population, 914.
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.
1858 – First Woodbridge-Bethany Agricultural Society Fair held in Woodbridge. Some held on Fair Grounds in Bethany on present Fairwood Road. Continued until about 1890.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1870 - 1,135 people live in Bethany, according to the U.S. Census
1894 – Bethany Lake is built on the West River by the New Haven Water Company; when the dam is filled, an earlier dam called the Nailworks Dam is inundated.
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
www.bethany-ct.com/ historicalSociety/ bhs-facts.htm
1895 - Bethany
Bethany, a post-township of New Haven co., Conn., about 9 miles N.N.W. of New Haven, is bounded on the W. by Naugatuck River. It has 3 churches. Pop. 1135.
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
Bethany, a post-township of New Haven co., Conn., about 9 miles N.N.W. of New Haven, is bounded on the W. by Naugatuck River. It has 3 churches. Pop. 1135.
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
1900 - 517 people live in Bethany, according the U.S. Census
1914 – First Bethany Town Hall built on Amity Road at Bethany Center.
The building at 512 Amity Road in Bethany was erected in 1914 (with a small addition built in 1952) to serve as the Town Hall. In 1977, part of an elementary school on Peck Road was renovated for use as a new Town Hall.
historicbuildingsct.com
The building at 512 Amity Road in Bethany was erected in 1914 (with a small addition built in 1952) to serve as the Town Hall. In 1977, part of an elementary school on Peck Road was renovated for use as a new Town Hall.
historicbuildingsct.com
1916
Bethany, a post-township (town) of New Haven co., Conn., about 9 miles NNW. of New Haven, is bounded on the W. by Naugatuck River. Pop. in 1900, 517.
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
Bethany, a post-township (town) of New Haven co., Conn., about 9 miles NNW. of New Haven, is bounded on the W. by Naugatuck River. Pop. in 1900, 517.
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
1920 - 411 people live in Bethany, according to U.S. Census
1922 - (Bethany, CT) - Harris Whittemore Jr. of Naugatuck, recognizing the commercial potential of the area, purchased land and began building an airfield.
What pilots first called Bethany Field, later became Bethany Airport, one of the earliest private airports in New England.
connecticuthistory.org/ a-busy-airfield-in-bethany/
What pilots first called Bethany Field, later became Bethany Airport, one of the earliest private airports in New England.
connecticuthistory.org/ a-busy-airfield-in-bethany/
1930 - 480 people live in Bethany, according to U.S. Census
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Bethany, Connecticut:
Bethany Veterans Memorial Park: Start your visit to Bethany at the Veterans Memorial Park, a beautiful green space that honors local veterans. It's a peaceful place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax in a serene environment.
Larkin State Park Trail: If you're a hiker or nature lover, you'll want to explore the Larkin State Park Trail. This trail offers scenic views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. It's perfect for a day of hiking or a relaxing walk.
Bethany Farms Vineyard: Wine enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Bethany Farms Vineyard. This family-owned vineyard offers wine tastings in a rustic and welcoming setting. It's a great place to sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Amity Wine & Spirit Co.: If you prefer a wider selection of wines, head to Amity Wine & Spirit Co., a well-stocked liquor store that carries a vast array of wines, spirits, and craft beers. You can find the perfect bottle to... Read MORE...
Bethany Veterans Memorial Park: Start your visit to Bethany at the Veterans Memorial Park, a beautiful green space that honors local veterans. It's a peaceful place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax in a serene environment.
Larkin State Park Trail: If you're a hiker or nature lover, you'll want to explore the Larkin State Park Trail. This trail offers scenic views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. It's perfect for a day of hiking or a relaxing walk.
Bethany Farms Vineyard: Wine enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Bethany Farms Vineyard. This family-owned vineyard offers wine tastings in a rustic and welcoming setting. It's a great place to sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Amity Wine & Spirit Co.: If you prefer a wider selection of wines, head to Amity Wine & Spirit Co., a well-stocked liquor store that carries a vast array of wines, spirits, and craft beers. You can find the perfect bottle to... Read MORE...
Discover MY Roots: Bethany Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Bethany, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 88 ancestors who were born or died in Bethany.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Genealogy Resources for Bethany
Our Bethany 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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