In Durham, Connecticut, captured moments of time afford
a precious glimpse into the lives of the early residents
of this small, central Connecticut town. Situated between
Hartford and New Haven, Durham was a natural stopping
place for many early travelers, but with its rich farmland
and plentiful sources of water power, it quickly became
much more. Given Durham’s proximity to Yale University,
most of its residents were very well-educated farmers.
This resulted in a colorful social history and a beautiful
collection of architectural styles along the main roads.
Grand celebrations, patriotic and agricultural, are shown
here as well as a pictorial progression through more that
200 years of life in rural New England. In the captions that
accompany each picture, those familiar with the town will
recognize names of local streets and landmarks and meet
the people for whom the places are named. Those who only
know Durham through the Durham Fair will gain insight
into the beginnings of this very popular event.