Welcome to Southbury, a town with a rich tapestry of history that stretches back over three centuries. Established in 1673 as part of Woodbury, Southbury is a place where history mingles with modernity. Originally inhabited by the Pootatuck Native Americans, the area became part of the European settlers’ expansion in the 17th century.
The first settlers arrived in Southbury in 1673, when the land was purchased from the Pootatuck tribe. These settlers were primarily Puritans looking to establish a new community. By 1733, the Southbury Ecclesiastical Society had built a meetinghouse, marking the beginning of a more structured settlement. Southbury officially became its own town in 1787, separating from Woodbury after more than a century of shared history.
Southbury’s development over time was significantly influenced by its natural resources, particularly its rivers. In the 1800s, the Pomperaug and Housatonic Rivers powered mills, tanneries, and distilleries, driving the town’s industrial growth. However, as the Industrial Revolution progressed, many businesses relocated to larger cities like Waterbury, sparking a shift in Southbury’s economic landscape.
One of the most intriguing chapters in Southbury’s history unfolded in the 1920s when Russian expatriates, including Count Ilya Tolstoy, son of famed author Leo Tolstoy, established an artists’ colony known as Churaevka or ‘Russian Village.’ This enclave became a cultural hub, attracting notable figures like composer Sergei Rachmaninoff. Though the community has largely disappeared, the St. Sergius Chapel, designed by Nicholas Roerich, stands as a testament to this unique part of Southbury’s past.
In 1937, Southbury found itself at the center of a significant event when residents discovered plans by the German American Bund, a pro-Nazi group, to establish a training facility in the town. In a remarkable display of civic action, the community swiftly enacted a zoning law prohibiting military activities, effectively thwarting the Bund’s plans and preserving the town’s peaceful character.
The post-war era brought significant change as the construction of Interstate 84 in the 1960s transformed Southbury into a more accessible and connected community. This development spurred growth and attracted new residents, leading to the establishment of Heritage Village in 1967, one of the first planned retirement communities in the nation.
Today, Southbury is a blend of the past and present, with historic sites coexisting alongside modern amenities. Its commitment to preserving open spaces ensures that while the town continues to grow, its natural beauty and historical significance remain intact. As you explore Southbury, you’ll find a community that cherishes its unique heritage while embracing the future.
