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History of Franklin, Connecticut, USA
Journey back in time to Franklin, Connecticut, USA
Visit Franklin, Connecticut, USA. Discover its history. Learn about the people who lived there through stories, old newspaper articles, pictures, postcards and ancestry.
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Franklin, New London, Connecticut, USA
In 1663, one John Ayer of Haverhill, Massachusetts, bought approximately 300 acres of land from the Indians, - as much, according to legend, as he could walk around in a day. His was the first permanent settlement in the area and this land has never been out of the Ayer name, having been passed in direct male descent from father to son for ten generations. Two more generations are in waiting.
Whether the said John Ayer at some time returned for his family is not certainly known but in due time some of them came to him. He had been in trouble with the Indians in Massachusetts but seems to have had no problems with the few he encountered in Connecticut. His cabin stood near the rock with the plaque bearing his name at Ayer's Gap, placed there by descendants many years later. The mountains around him harbored rattlesnakes and he is said to have brought in hogs to exterminate them.
Like Rome, Franklin, then West Farms, was established on seven hills: Hearthstone, Center or Middle, Pleasure, Meetinghouse, Blue, Little Lebanon and Portipaug/ Pautipaug. Her territory originally embraced also the western half of what became Sprague and the eastern part of New Concord which became Bozrah...
www.mainelementhosting.com/ franklin/ default.asp?contentID=509
Franklin Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Franklin, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
![Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fPlaces%2fDetails%2f937&media=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fContent%2fancestorimages%2ffranklin_ct_2.jpg&description=Franklin, Connecticut, USA - Residence of Col. Jacob Kingsbury, of Franklin.
"Jacob Kingsbury was born July 6, 1756, in Franklin County, Connecticut. In 1775, Kingsbury enlisted as a private in the Continental Army. He served in General Anthony Wayne’s Indian
campaigns and was promoted to lieutenant of infantry in 1789. On November 24, 1799, he married Sarah Palmer Ellis. Upon promotion, Lieutenant Colonel Kingsbury was given command of Fort Wilkinson, Georgia, and later was one of the principal builders of the fort at
Bellefontaine. He was promoted to colonel inspector-general before retiring from the army in 1815. After retiring, he returned to his family home in Franklin, Connecticut, where he died on July 1, 1837." www.mohistory.org){kind=small}
Residence of Col. Jacob Kingsbury, of Franklin.
"Jacob Kingsbury was born July 6, 1756, in Franklin County, Connecticut. In 1775, Kingsbury enlisted as a private in the Continental Army. He served in General Anthony Wayne’s Indian
campaigns and was promoted to lieutenant of infantry in 1789. On November 24, 1799, he married Sarah Palmer Ellis. Upon promotion, Lieutenant Colonel Kingsbury was given command of Fort Wilkinson, Georgia, and later was one of the principal builders of the fort at
Bellefontaine. He was promoted to colonel inspector-general before retiring from the army in 1815. After retiring, he returned to his family home in Franklin, Connecticut, where he died on July 1, 1837." www.mohistory.org
Franklin, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
![Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fPlaces%2fDetails%2f937&media=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fContent%2fancestorimages%2ffranklin_ct_3.jpg&description=Franklin, Connecticut, USA - Bailey's Ravine, Franklin, Conn.
"Ayers Gap is a rugged place that conceals an exquisite cascading waterfall amidst crags of exposed rock outcrops. There are flowing brooks, waterfalls, stately hemlocks and the cool, moist aroma of the preserve's interior gorge, also known as Bailey's Ravine. Above the ravine, a blazed trail follows the spine of a ridge, affording a terrific view east across the Franklin countryside." www.nature.org){kind=small}
Bailey's Ravine, Franklin, Conn.
"Ayers Gap is a rugged place that conceals an exquisite cascading waterfall amidst crags of exposed rock outcrops. There are flowing brooks, waterfalls, stately hemlocks and the cool, moist aroma of the preserve's interior gorge, also known as Bailey's Ravine. Above the ravine, a blazed trail follows the spine of a ridge, affording a terrific view east across the Franklin countryside." www.nature.org
Franklin, Connecticut, USA
Postcard
Water Nymph at Bailey's Ravine, Franklin, Conn.
Discover Franklin: History, News, Travel, and Stories
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1786 - (Franklin, CT) - Originally called West Farms, the town of Franklin in the New London County hills of east-central Connecticut separated from Norwich and incorporated in 1786.
It took its new name in honor of Benjamin Franklin.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ franklin/
It took its new name in honor of Benjamin Franklin.
connecticuthistory.org/ towns-page/ franklin/
1819 - Franklin
Franklin is a post township, situated on the northern border of the county, 34 miles from Hartford; bounded on the northeast by Windham, and the Shetucket river, which separates it from Lisbon, on the southeast by Norwich, on the southwest by Bozrah, and on the northwest by Lebanon, in Windham county. Its average length from northeast to southwest is 5 miles, and its average breadth 4 miles, comprising about 20 square miles.
The township is diversified with hills and dales, and the geological structure and soil are of a granitic character, the latter being generally a gravelly loam; but in some small sections it is a rich, deep, chocolate colored loam...
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
Franklin is a post township, situated on the northern border of the county, 34 miles from Hartford; bounded on the northeast by Windham, and the Shetucket river, which separates it from Lisbon, on the southeast by Norwich, on the southwest by Bozrah, and on the northwest by Lebanon, in Windham county. Its average length from northeast to southwest is 5 miles, and its average breadth 4 miles, comprising about 20 square miles.
The township is diversified with hills and dales, and the geological structure and soil are of a granitic character, the latter being generally a gravelly loam; but in some small sections it is a rich, deep, chocolate colored loam...
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
1839 - Franklin
Franklin, Connecticut
New London county. Shetucket river separates this town from Lisbon. The surface of Franklin is uneven; the soil is a gravelly loam, more fit for grazing than tillage. There is a woolen factory on Beaver brook, a branch of the Shetucket, but the chief business of the people is rearing sheep, and other agricultural pursuits. Population, 1830, 1,194. It lies 34 miles E.S.E. from Hartford and 7 N. by W. from Norwich. Franklin was taken from Norwich in 1786.
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. Alphabetically arranged. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
Franklin, Connecticut
New London county. Shetucket river separates this town from Lisbon. The surface of Franklin is uneven; the soil is a gravelly loam, more fit for grazing than tillage. There is a woolen factory on Beaver brook, a branch of the Shetucket, but the chief business of the people is rearing sheep, and other agricultural pursuits. Population, 1830, 1,194. It lies 34 miles E.S.E. from Hartford and 7 N. by W. from Norwich. Franklin was taken from Norwich in 1786.
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. Alphabetically arranged. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
1854 - Franklin
Franklin, a post-township of New London county, Connecticut, 30 miles E. by S. from Hartford. Population, 895.
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.
Franklin, a post-township of New London county, Connecticut, 30 miles E. by S. from Hartford. Population, 895.
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.
1859
FRANKLIN, a township of New London co., in the state of Connecticut, 37 m. SE of Hartford, watered by Shetucket and Susquetonscut rivers and Beaver brook. It has a hilly surface. Its soil, consisting of gravelly loam, affords good pasturage. Pop. 1,000.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
FRANKLIN, a township of New London co., in the state of Connecticut, 37 m. SE of Hartford, watered by Shetucket and Susquetonscut rivers and Beaver brook. It has a hilly surface. Its soil, consisting of gravelly loam, affords good pasturage. Pop. 1,000.
A Gazetteer of the World: Or, Dictionary of Geographical Knowledge, Publisher A. Fullarton, 1859
1895 - Franklin
Franklin, a post-township of New London co., Conn., on the New London Northern Railroad, 7 miles N.W. of Norwich. It has a church, a grist-mill, and 2 saw-mills. Pop. 731.
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
Franklin, a post-township of New London co., Conn., on the New London Northern Railroad, 7 miles N.W. of Norwich. It has a church, a grist-mill, and 2 saw-mills. Pop. 731.
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
1916
Franklin, a post-township (town) of New London co., Conn., on the New London Northern R., 7 miles NW. of Norwich. Pop. in 1900, 646.
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
Franklin, a post-township (town) of New London co., Conn., on the New London Northern R., 7 miles NW. of Norwich. Pop. in 1900, 646.
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
2023 - Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Franklin:
Franklin Farmers Market: Start your day by exploring the local farmers market. It's a great place to pick up fresh produce, handmade crafts, and maybe even strike up a conversation with some locals.
Devil's Hopyard State Park: If you're a nature lover, this state park is a must-visit. It's known for its scenic trails, especially the Chapman Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall. Perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking.
Visit a Local Vineyard: Connecticut has a growing wine scene, and there might be a vineyard near Franklin. Check out a local winery, take a tour, and enjoy some wine tasting.
Franklin Historical Society Museum: Learn about the town's history by visiting the local historical society museum. It's a great way to gain insight into the roots of the community.
Quiet Corner Tea and Coffee Room: For a cozy and relaxing afternoon, visit a local tea and coffee room. It's a great spot to unwind with a good book or catch up with friends.
Explore Mystic... Read MORE...
Franklin Farmers Market: Start your day by exploring the local farmers market. It's a great place to pick up fresh produce, handmade crafts, and maybe even strike up a conversation with some locals.
Devil's Hopyard State Park: If you're a nature lover, this state park is a must-visit. It's known for its scenic trails, especially the Chapman Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall. Perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking.
Visit a Local Vineyard: Connecticut has a growing wine scene, and there might be a vineyard near Franklin. Check out a local winery, take a tour, and enjoy some wine tasting.
Franklin Historical Society Museum: Learn about the town's history by visiting the local historical society museum. It's a great way to gain insight into the roots of the community.
Quiet Corner Tea and Coffee Room: For a cozy and relaxing afternoon, visit a local tea and coffee room. It's a great spot to unwind with a good book or catch up with friends.
Explore Mystic... Read MORE...
Our Franklin Gift Ideas
Discover Your Roots: Franklin Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Franklin, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were born or died in Franklin.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
John JOHNSON (1649, Guilford, Connecticut, USA - 1716, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Nathaniel RUDD (1652, Norwalk, Connecticut, USA (Rowayton) (South Norwalk) (East Norwalk) - 18 April 1727, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)
Mary POST (November 1662, Norwich, Connecticut, USA (Norwichtown) (Yantic) (Greeneville) (Occum) (Taftville) - 13 November 1705, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)John TRACY (19 January 1673, Norwich, Connecticut, USA (Norwichtown) (Yantic) (Greeneville) (Occum) (Taftville) - 27 March 1726, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Elizabeth BUSHNELL (31 January 1685, Norwich, Connecticut, USA (Norwichtown) (Yantic) (Greeneville) (Occum) (Taftville) - 21 August 1768, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Abigail HARTSHORN (28 April 1686, Reading, Massachusetts, USA - 22 October 1727, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Winslow TRACY (9 February 1689, Norwich, Connecticut, USA (Norwichtown) (Yantic) (Greeneville) (Occum) (Taftville) - 22 January 1768, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Jonathan RUDD (22 May 1693, Norwich, Connecticut, USA (Norwichtown) (Yantic) (Greeneville) (Occum) (Taftville) - 29 August 1772, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Job BARSTOW (1710, - 14 September 1794, Franklin, Connecticut, USA)Ancestors Who Were Married in Franklin, Connecticut, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Franklin.View Them Now
Nathaniel RUDD (22 May 1684 - 20 February 1760) and Rebecca WALDO (6 August 1686 - 27 September 1727) married 27 December 1709Samuel BURNHAM (10 December 1764 - 4 June 1835) and Hannah G WOODWORTH (17 February 1760 - 23 June 1830) married 28 December 1785
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NOTE: If you don't know your ancestor's whole name or are unsure of the spelling, specify part of the name.Updated: 10/6/2023 8:34:23 AM