History of Franklin, Connecticut, USA

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/

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

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. 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.

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

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

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...