This two-sided marker from the CT Historical Commission, with the familiar white lettering on a blue background, is located in the heart of Thomaston’s municipal complex by Town Hall and the Police Department. Although the marker has a good location, it’s sad to say that the marker is in a very distressed condition. Both sides have badly streaked and faded paint. The front side is in a more advanced state of failure than it’s reverse side, because some of the front’s white lettering has been completely obscured by time and the elements. The marker recounts Thomaston’s history as a spin-off of Farmington, and its various name changes, mergers, and split-offs over the years. Seth Thomas, the legendary clockmaker, settled here in 1813, and because his clocks were in such demand, a railroad was built to connect what was soon known as «Thomas Town» to Waterbury. It’s a great testament to one of the Pioneers of Industry that called Connecticut«home». The full inscription reads: Originally part of the Farmington Proprietors’ purchase in 1684 of Mattatuck Plantation, the Thomaston area achieved independence in 1739, being set off as the Northbury Parish. In 1780 Northbury and Westbury united to form Watertown. By 1795 Northbury separated again to become Plymouth, with the Thomaston section designated«Plymouth Hollow.» Seth Thomas came to the Hollow in 1813 to manufacture clocks on the present factory site. His influence helped to route the Naugatuck Railroad through Plymouth Hollow, linking it with the growing brass center at Waterbury. By 1856 Thomas was labeling his clocks with«Thomas Town» as the place of manufacture. [ back ] On July 6, 1875, separation from Plymouth was confirmed by the State Legislature. Thomas Town became Thomaston in memory of Seth Thomas and his famous clocks. A century later diversified industries, a sanitary sewerage system, a new library, modern schools and highways, special housing for the elderly, and sectional playgrounds exist. In addition an attractive business center, seven churches and several recreational parks all indicate that Thomaston has progressed beyond the dreams of our forefathers. Erected by the Town of Thomaston the Thomaston Historical Society, Inc. and the Connecticut Historical Commission 1973.
