A Brief History of Mansfield

Incorporated in 1702, the Town of Mansfield was part of a tract of land acquired from the Mohegans by a group of settlers in Norwich. Most of the first settlers were farmers, and Mansfield has remained largely a rural town. Rivers powered saw mills and grist mills from the early days, and during the nineteenth century mainly textiles, but also steel products, bits and augers, bells, bronze cannons, gunpowder, and organ pipes, were manufactured in Mansfield. The first silk mill in the United States was built at Hanks Hill in 1810, and for many years, Mansfield led the country in silk production.

Today, Mansfield serves as a regional cultural center with its many theater, music, and museum programs. Come and enjoy the beauty and historic traditions that the Town of Mansfield has offered for more than 300 years.

For more information contact the:

Mansfield Historical Society:
954 Storrs Road (Route 195)
P.O. Box 145
Storrs, CT 06268-0145
Phone: 860-429-6575
E-mail: contact form

"The Mansfield Historical Society, founded in 1957, preserves and interprets over 300 years of Mansfield history through its museum exhibits, programs, research library, and publications."