To The Editor:

On behalf of the Newtown Historical Society, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to our recent fundraising campaign. Because of your generosity and support, we are now the proud owners of four remarkable historical documents that are deeply important to Newtown’s story. We also extend special thanks to the Newtown Bee for publicizing the documents when they became available and for promoting our fundraising campaign to help secure their purchase.

The first acquisition is the two-part journal of Thomas Toucey, Newtown’s first settled minister of the Congregational Church and the town’s first physician. One journal records his formal partnerships with three women weavers. The second details his medical activities, offering a rare glimpse into early life and medical practice in our community.

The second document is the account book of Philo Tousey Platt, a valuable record of farming activities in the Poverty Hollow area. It also documents working arrangements with several nearby Black residents, making it an especially meaningful and important piece of Newtown’s history.

We have also acquired Ziba Blakslee’s 1795 silversmith account book and Charles Short’s 1842 hatbox maker’s journal. Journals kept by craftsmen are rare and highly desirable historical resources. Charles Short’s journal is another fascinating piece of local history, reflecting the work of a hatbox maker, joiner, and furniture maker.

These acquisitions are more than just old papers. They are irreplaceable connections to the people, work, and daily life that helped shape our town. Your support has ensured that these documents will be preserved for future historians, researchers, and residents seeking a deeper understanding of Newtown’s past.

Thank you for recognizing the importance of preserving Newtown’s historical records and for helping protect these treasures for generations to come.

Sheila Powers

Board President

The Newtown Historical Society