Derby Hall of Famer of the Week served in Civil War, state legislature

Our Derby Hall of Famer of the Week David Torrance was born in Scotland, but made his mark in Derby. 

His connection to another Derby Hall of Famer, William Wooster, during his service in the Civil War eventually brought him to Derby where he embarked on a legal career that brought him great distinction.

 https://electronicvalley.org/.../Hall.../torrancce,David.htm

Sharing 'Turnback Tuesday' memory from this date in 2017

This week's "Turnback Tuesday" features Judge William S. Downs, who for many years was a prominent lawyer in both Derby and Shelton. 

Judge Downs was born on March 16, 1857 in Derby and served as assistant clerk to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1884 and 1885 and in the same capacity for the Senate in 1886. He was also both the prosecuting attorney for the Town Court as well as judge of the City Court for the borough of Birmingham. 

Downs died on October 24, 1918.

Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.

'Turnback Tuesday' salutes Derby native Harold Yudkin

Harold B. Yudkin

Turnback Tuesday salutes a man whose love of history will always be remembered at the Derby Public Library. 
Harold B. Yudkin was born and raised in Derby. 
After graduating high school in 1928, he later enlisted into the Army Air Corps and served during WWII. 
After passing the CT Bar in 1938, Harold was a successful lawyer for 60+ years. Upon his retirement, Yudkin turned his attention to history by writing and giving lectures at the Derby Public Library. 
In 2006, Selma Yudkin donated money to the Library in memory of her husband. 
And thanks to the Harold B. Yudkin Historic Fund, the Library is able to preserve the many treasures here as well as those received in the future.

A big thank you goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history with the community each week.