Thursday, December 5, 2024
From the 'Turnback Tuesday' archives: Naugatuck River history
This week's "Turnback Tuesday" features a photo of the Naugatuck River as it goes under the Route 34 bridge and alongside Downtown Derby.
The Naugatuck River proper starts in Torrington where its east and west branches meet.
The total length is 40.2 miles, and the river empties into the Housatonic River at Derby. “Naugatuck” is derived from an Algonquian term that means “lone tree by the fishing place.” Originally, the Native Americans used the river’s abundant food source.
Since the 19th century, the Naugatuck River has had a long history of industry using the water for washing and power generation.
Due to this industry, the river suffered great damage by 1915 that wasn't improved upon until the early 1970’s. With the help of the DEP and the Valley community, progress has been made towards the river’s restoration.
Passageways have been constructed at the dams along the river. Having made great strides with cleanup efforts, the return of fish is now quite apparent. This can be seen on any given day in the spring and summer along the Derby Greenway. Bald eagles and osprey can be spotted in the trees along the river, as well as nests from our aquatic birds that dot the edge.
[Originally posted on this date in 2017.]
Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.
Recuperation journey 2.0: Looking at the sky
Today's sunset seen through the window. Grateful for my view.
Oxford Parks and Recreation to hold tree lighting Friday at Town Hall
OXFORD - Join us at Oxford Town Hall at 6 p.m. Friday for our annual Town Tree Lighting.
Santa will arrive via firetruck and will be at the gazebo to greet children! Town Hall is located at 486 Oxford Road.
Santa will arrive via firetruck and will be at the gazebo to greet children! Town Hall is located at 486 Oxford Road.
There is no admission, but please remember we will be taking non-perishable food donations together with Oxford Ambulance to Stuff an Ambulance.
Toy donations for the CT State Police Toy Drive will also be greatly appreciated! Please consider bringing a toy for this very important collection.
Enjoy our 2024 holiday season kick-off with music and a hot cocoa and cookie while they last.
Toy donations for the CT State Police Toy Drive will also be greatly appreciated! Please consider bringing a toy for this very important collection.
Enjoy our 2024 holiday season kick-off with music and a hot cocoa and cookie while they last.
