Fairfield County

Family Bible of Thomas Wells of Stratford

Bible

The Bible record details the lineage of Thomas Wells of Stratford, born August 1, 1718, and his wife Sarah Laborie, married in 1742. Sarah passed away in 1763, leaving five children: Bathsheba, James, Thomas, Sarah, and Elias. Thomas Wells died in 1791, with several family members noted for their birth and death dates. His son, also named Thomas, married Anna Grant in 1780, having four children before his death in 1860. The record reflects the family’s history and connections as preserved by the New Milford Historical Society.

Progress of the Colony

1654 Map of the Colony of Connecticut

In 1698, Connecticut’s General Assembly established a two-house Legislature, requiring concurrence for law enactment. The colony faced military expenses due to the war with France, issuing paper money for a Canadian expedition. By 1713, Connecticut had 17,000 residents, 38 towns, and a growing economy based on trade with New York, Boston, and the West Indies. The colony actively participated in the French and Indian Wars, significantly contributing to military efforts. Post-war, Connecticut saw rapid growth and eventually ceded lands to the U.S. while retaining some for local indemnity and education funds, laying the groundwork for future prosperity.