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History of Guilford, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Guilford, Connecticut, USA
Explore Guilford, 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 Guilford Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
Guilford, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
The Henry Whitfield House in Guilford, built by founder Henry Whitfield in 1639, is Connecticut's oldest house and the oldest stone house in New England.
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Guilford Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
Guilford, Conn.
"The Henry Whitfield House is a historic house located at 248 Old Whitfield Street in Guilford, Connecticut, down the street from the town green. This house dates from 1639, having been built just before the town of Guilford was settled. It is the oldest house in Connecticut and the oldest stone house in New England. The house, with its massive stone walls, also served as a fort to protect the community. Henry Whitfield, for whom the house was built, was a Puritan minister who had come from England to flee religious persecution. The house was remodeled in 1868 and opened to the public in 1899 as the first museum of the State of Connecticut, the Henry Whitfield State Museum. The house was restored in 1902-04 and in the 1930s and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1997. It was named a State Archeological Preserve in 2006..." wikipedia){kind=small}
Old Stone House (Erected 1639)
Guilford, Conn.
"The Henry Whitfield House is a historic house located at 248 Old Whitfield Street in Guilford, Connecticut, down the street from the town green. This house dates from 1639, having been built just before the town of Guilford was settled. It is the oldest house in Connecticut and the oldest stone house in New England. The house, with its massive stone walls, also served as a fort to protect the community. Henry Whitfield, for whom the house was built, was a Puritan minister who had come from England to flee religious persecution. The house was remodeled in 1868 and opened to the public in 1899 as the first museum of the State of Connecticut, the Henry Whitfield State Museum. The house was restored in 1902-04 and in the 1930s and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1997. It was named a State Archeological Preserve in 2006..." wikipedia
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
The Acadian House, built 1670. Guilford, Conn.
Where several Acadian peasants from Grand Pre, Nova Scotia, were sheltered by the won, having been put ashore here from British ships in 1755.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Great Harbor, Leetes Island, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Crandlewood Tower
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Guilford Point House, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Guilford Institute, 1909
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Club House and Cottages, Sachem Head
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Faulkner's Island Light House, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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First Church, Guilford, Conn., 1910
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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I.S. Spencer Sons Mfg. Co., Fair Street, Guilford, Conn.
museumofcthistory.org
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Guilford Green and Soldiers' Monument, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Whitfield St., looking North, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Scene at Guilford Lake, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Third Congregational Church, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Town Hall, Guilford, Conn.
Guilford, Connecticut, USA
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Bernice's Restaurant
Guilford, Conn.
Discover Guilford: History, News, Travel, and Stories
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1639 - Gulford, CT is settled
Originally called Menunkatucket, the Quinnipiac sold it, along with land stretching from present day Niantic to Branford, to Puritans led by Henry Whitfield. It was settled in 1639, renamed Guilford, and admitted to New Haven Colony in 1643.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ guilford/
Originally called Menunkatucket, the Quinnipiac sold it, along with land stretching from present day Niantic to Branford, to Puritans led by Henry Whitfield. It was settled in 1639, renamed Guilford, and admitted to New Haven Colony in 1643.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ guilford/
1643 - First church built on the "green" in Guilford
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1743 - Protestant Episcopal Church built in Guilford
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1771 - (Guilford, CT) - St. Alban's Masonic lodge, F. A. & M. was instituted in 1771.
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
On May 23, 1777, Guilford residents raided the British provisions at Sag Harbor on Long Island for a key Revolutionary War victory.
courant.com
courant.com
1793 - (Guilford, CT) - When Nicholas Loysel, a Frenchman, learned of the beheading of King Louis XVI of France, he painted his house black. It remained that way for many years.
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1819 - Guilford
Guilford, and ancient and populous maritime post township, is situated upon Long-Island sound, 15 miles east of New-Haven, and 35 south from Hartford; bounded on the north by Durham, on the east by Hammonassett river, which separates it from Killingworth, on the south by Long Island sound, and on the west by Branford. Its mean length from north to south is about eleven miles, and its mean breadth nearly seven; comprising about 72 square miles. The surface and face of the country are various; on the border of the sound, are some tracts of alluvial; the interior is broken and rough, being rocky and hilly; and in some sections mountainous...
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
Guilford, and ancient and populous maritime post township, is situated upon Long-Island sound, 15 miles east of New-Haven, and 35 south from Hartford; bounded on the north by Durham, on the east by Hammonassett river, which separates it from Killingworth, on the south by Long Island sound, and on the west by Branford. Its mean length from north to south is about eleven miles, and its mean breadth nearly seven; comprising about 72 square miles. The surface and face of the country are various; on the border of the sound, are some tracts of alluvial; the interior is broken and rough, being rocky and hilly; and in some sections mountainous...
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
1838 - Guilford Methodist Church organized
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1839 - Guilford
Guilford, Connecticut
New Haven county. This town, the Menunkatuc of the Indians, was first settled in 1639. The town was settled by a party of Non-Conformists from England, at the head of which was the Rev. Henry Whitfield. Mr. Whitfield's house, built of stone, in 1640, is now standing, occupied, and in good repair. The cement used in building it is said to be harder than the stone itself. This building was used by the first settlers as a fort and place of refuge against the attacks of the natives. The first marriage in the town was solemnized in this building. The treat on the occasion was pork and peas. Guilford borough was incorporated in 1815. It is handsomely located two miles from Long Island Sound, on a tract of alluvial plain, and near a small stream called the Menunkatuc. The buildings in the borough are neat, but somewhat antiquated in their appearance.—Guilford is a place of resort for sea air and bathing. The accommodations are very good. The scenery in the vicinity of... Read MORE...
Guilford, Connecticut
New Haven county. This town, the Menunkatuc of the Indians, was first settled in 1639. The town was settled by a party of Non-Conformists from England, at the head of which was the Rev. Henry Whitfield. Mr. Whitfield's house, built of stone, in 1640, is now standing, occupied, and in good repair. The cement used in building it is said to be harder than the stone itself. This building was used by the first settlers as a fort and place of refuge against the attacks of the natives. The first marriage in the town was solemnized in this building. The treat on the occasion was pork and peas. Guilford borough was incorporated in 1815. It is handsomely located two miles from Long Island Sound, on a tract of alluvial plain, and near a small stream called the Menunkatuc. The buildings in the borough are neat, but somewhat antiquated in their appearance.—Guilford is a place of resort for sea air and bathing. The accommodations are very good. The scenery in the vicinity of... Read MORE...
1847 - The first iron foundry in Guilford was established at Jones' Bridge in 1847.
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1854 - Guilford
Guilford, a beautiful post-borough of New Haven county, Connecticut, near Long Island sound, and on the New Haven and New London railroad, 16 miles E. by S. from New Haven. In the centre is a fine square ornamented with shade trees. Fronting it are the churches, 2 Congregational, 1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist, the principal stores, and a hotel. The Point, about a mile S. of the village, is much resorted to in the summer months as a watering place. Guilford is the birthplace and present residence of Fitz Greene Halleck, one of our most eminent American poets. Population of the borough, about 2000 ; of the township, 2653.
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.
Guilford, a beautiful post-borough of New Haven county, Connecticut, near Long Island sound, and on the New Haven and New London railroad, 16 miles E. by S. from New Haven. In the centre is a fine square ornamented with shade trees. Fronting it are the churches, 2 Congregational, 1 Methodist, and 1 Baptist, the principal stores, and a hotel. The Point, about a mile S. of the village, is much resorted to in the summer months as a watering place. Guilford is the birthplace and present residence of Fitz Greene Halleck, one of our most eminent American poets. Population of the borough, about 2000 ; of the township, 2653.
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 - Justice?
Justice must move very slowly in Guilford, Conn. Some six weeks ago, a girl was charged with stealing a diamond pin worth $100, and was committed to await her trial for the theft. The pin, which had not been stolen, but only lost, was found within ten days after the charge was made, and yet, it is stated, the girl still remains in jail.
Lowell Daily Citizen and News
Lowell, Massachusetts
September 07, 1858
Justice must move very slowly in Guilford, Conn. Some six weeks ago, a girl was charged with stealing a diamond pin worth $100, and was committed to await her trial for the theft. The pin, which had not been stolen, but only lost, was found within ten days after the charge was made, and yet, it is stated, the girl still remains in jail.
Lowell Daily Citizen and News
Lowell, Massachusetts
September 07, 1858
1859 - Guilford Fair
The first Guilford Fair was held in the fall of 1859. It was run by the Guilford Agricultural Society.
The first Guilford Fair was held in the fall of 1859. It was run by the Guilford Agricultural Society.
1859
GUILFORD, a township in New Haven co., Connecticut, 52 m. S of Hartford. Pop. 2,421.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
GUILFORD, a township in New Haven co., Connecticut, 52 m. S of Hartford. Pop. 2,421.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
1868 - The oldest house in the United States
is believed, by some to be a stone edifice in Guilford, Conn. It was built in 1640, the stone being brought on hand-barrows from a ledge at some distance from the site of the building. The cement with which the walls were laid up is said to be harder than the stone itself. The first wedding in Guilford took place in this edifice, the supper provided being pork and beans.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
November 21, 1868
is believed, by some to be a stone edifice in Guilford, Conn. It was built in 1640, the stone being brought on hand-barrows from a ledge at some distance from the site of the building. The cement with which the walls were laid up is said to be harder than the stone itself. The first wedding in Guilford took place in this edifice, the supper provided being pork and beans.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
November 21, 1868
1869 - Fitz Greene Halleck Monument
The monument erected to the memory of Fitz Greene Halleck, at Guilford, Conn., was dedicated on the 8th, with appropriate ceremonies. About 3,000 persons were in attendance.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
July 17, 1869
The monument erected to the memory of Fitz Greene Halleck, at Guilford, Conn., was dedicated on the 8th, with appropriate ceremonies. About 3,000 persons were in attendance.
St Joseph Herald
Saint Joseph, Michigan
July 17, 1869
1875 - Savings Bank founded in Guilford, CT
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1877 - Shore Line Sentinel (weekly newspaper) began publishing in Guilford
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1881 - The canning industry came to Guilford in 1881 with the opening of Sachem's Head Canning Company.
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1891 - Guilford Free Library constructed
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1894 - (Guilford, CT) - Charles H. Scholey purchased the Shore Line Times from Rev. E. M. Jerome of Fair Haven, and brought the newspaper operation to Guilford.
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1895 - Guilford
Guilford, a beautiful post-borough of New Haven co, Conn., in Guilford township, on Long Island Sound, and on the Shore Line Railroad, 16 miles E. of New Haven. It contains 5 churches, a savings-bank, the Guilford Institute, a newspaper office, &c. Guilford was the birthplace of Fitz-Greene Halleck. The township has 6 churches, an iron-foundry, and a manufactory of school-furniture. Pp. of the township in 1890, 2780.
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
Guilford, a beautiful post-borough of New Haven co, Conn., in Guilford township, on Long Island Sound, and on the Shore Line Railroad, 16 miles E. of New Haven. It contains 5 churches, a savings-bank, the Guilford Institute, a newspaper office, &c. Guilford was the birthplace of Fitz-Greene Halleck. The township has 6 churches, an iron-foundry, and a manufactory of school-furniture. Pp. of the township in 1890, 2780.
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
1910 - Population of Guilford, CT is 3,001
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
A Modern History of New Haven and Eastern New Haven County, Volume 1 By Everett Gleason Hill
1916
Guilford, a banking post-borough of New Haven co., Conn., in Guilford township (town), on Long Island Sound and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 16 miles E. of New Haven. It has a foundry, wagon-wheel and canning-factories. Guilford was the birthplace of Fitz- Greene Halleck. Pop. in 1900, 1512 ; of the town, 2785.
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
Guilford, a banking post-borough of New Haven co., Conn., in Guilford township (town), on Long Island Sound and on the New York, New Haven and Hartford R., 16 miles E. of New Haven. It has a foundry, wagon-wheel and canning-factories. Guilford was the birthplace of Fitz- Greene Halleck. Pop. in 1900, 1512 ; of the town, 2785.
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
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in Guilford:
Guilford Green:
Start your exploration in the heart of Guilford at the town green. It's a picturesque, historical area surrounded by shops and restaurants. It's also a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Henry Whitfield State Museum:
Visit the Henry Whitfield State Museum, the oldest stone house in New England. This 17th-century house provides insight into the early colonial history of the region.
Bishop's Orchards:
Enjoy a quintessential New England experience at Bishop's Orchards. Depending on the season, you can pick your own fruits, taste fresh cider, or explore the farm market.
Guilford Art Center:
If you appreciate art, Guilford Art Center is a must-visit. It often features exhibits and workshops showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
Jacobs Beach:
Spend a relaxing day at Jacobs Beach. It's a beautiful sandy spot along the Long Island Sound, perfect for picnics, swimming, or simply enjoying the view.
Chaffinch Island... Read MORE...
Guilford Green:
Start your exploration in the heart of Guilford at the town green. It's a picturesque, historical area surrounded by shops and restaurants. It's also a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Henry Whitfield State Museum:
Visit the Henry Whitfield State Museum, the oldest stone house in New England. This 17th-century house provides insight into the early colonial history of the region.
Bishop's Orchards:
Enjoy a quintessential New England experience at Bishop's Orchards. Depending on the season, you can pick your own fruits, taste fresh cider, or explore the farm market.
Guilford Art Center:
If you appreciate art, Guilford Art Center is a must-visit. It often features exhibits and workshops showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
Jacobs Beach:
Spend a relaxing day at Jacobs Beach. It's a beautiful sandy spot along the Long Island Sound, perfect for picnics, swimming, or simply enjoying the view.
Chaffinch Island... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Guilford Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Guilford, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about 146 ancestors who were born or died in Guilford.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Guilford, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Guilford.View Them Now
Genealogy Resources for Guilford
Discover Unique Gift Ideas from or related to Guilford
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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