7 Towns 1 Region

Indigenous Roots and Early Settlements

Before European colonization, the Valley was home to Native American tribes such as the Paugussett and Pootatuck. The area now known as Derby was called Paugasset, a name reflecting its indigenous heritage. European settlers established a trading post there in 1642, and by 1675, it was incorporated as the town of Derby, encompassing present-day Ansonia, Seymour, Oxford, and parts of Beacon Falls¹.

The Rise of Industry and Community Formation

Derby: The Original Hub

Derby's strategic location at the confluence of the Housatonic and Naugatuck Rivers made it a focal point for early industry, including shipbuilding and manufacturing². As the town grew, distinct communities within its borders began to emerge, eventually leading to the formation of new municipalities.

Seymour: From Humphreysville to Independence

Originally part of Derby, the area known as Humphreysville—named after Revolutionary War hero David Humphreys—developed into a manufacturing center. In 1850, it was incorporated as the town of Seymour, honoring Governor Thomas H. Seymour³.

Naugatuck: A Consolidated Borough

Settled in 1701, Naugatuck became a town in 1844, formed from parts of Waterbury, Bethany, and Oxford⁴. It gained prominence in the rubber industry, notably with the establishment of the United States Rubber Company (later Uniroyal). In 1895, Naugatuck became the only town in Connecticut that is both a consolidated borough and a town⁵.

Beacon Falls: A Patchwork Community

Incorporated in 1871, Beacon Falls was formed from portions of Bethany, Oxford, Naugatuck, and Seymour⁶. Its name derives from Beacon Hill, a local landmark. Despite its relatively small size, Beacon Falls developed a distinct identity rooted in manufacturing and tight-knit community life.

Ansonia: The Copper City

Ansonia began as a borough of Derby in 1864 and became a separate town in 1889. It was named after Anson Greene Phelps, who established copper and brass mills in the area. Ansonia was incorporated as a city in 1893, consolidating with the town in the process⁷.

Shelton: From Stratford to City Status

Originally part of Stratford, the area became the town of Huntington in 1789. The industrial village of Shelton, named after industrialist Edward N. Shelton, was incorporated as a city in 1915. In 1919, the town of Huntington consolidated with the city of Shelton to form the present-day city⁸.

Interwoven Histories and Shared Heritage

The towns of the Valley share a common industrial heritage, with the rivers providing power and transportation that fueled economic and social growth. Many of these towns originated from Derby¹, reflecting a shared lineage. Today, while each town maintains its unique identity, they collectively contribute to the rich tapestry of the Naugatuck Valley.

From brass to rubber, shipbuilding to textiles, the Valley served as a manufacturing powerhouse during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This legacy still defines much of the region's culture and landscape—think mill buildings turned apartments, worker housing turned family neighborhoods, and industrial corridors that once employed thousands.

The Naugatuck Valley's history is a testament to the dynamic interplay of geography, industry, and community. From its Native American roots to its industrial achievements and municipal evolutions, the Valley stands as a cohesive region with a shared past and a collaborative future. Understanding this history enriches our appreciation for each town and highlights the strength found in our unity.

Sources

• "Derby, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derby%2C_Connecticut

• City of Derby – History. https://www.derbyct.gov/history-of-derby

• "Seymour, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seymour%2C_Connecticut

• "Naugatuck, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naugatuck%2C_Connecticut

• "Naugatuck." ConnecticutHistory.org. https://connecticuthistory.org/towns-page/naugatuck/

• "Beacon Falls, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beacon_Falls%2C_Connecticut

• "Ansonia, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ansonia%2C_Connecticut

• "Shelton, Connecticut." Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelton%2C_Connecticut