William Phelps Talk

This special presentation will explore the fascinating and curious adventures of William Phelps, an English Puritan who sailed to American in 1630 and eventually became one of the founding fathers of Windsor, Connecticut.  Larry Phelps, a Windsor resident, genealogical enthusiast, and 10th-generation descendant of William Phelps, will guide event attendees through an historic journey of colonial life in Connecticut as he details the adventures of a trailblazer who was instrumental in shaping Windsor and state government. 

William Phelps was one of the founders of Dorchester, Massachusetts, and Windsor, Connecticut, and was one of eight individuals selected to lead the first democratic town government in the American colonies in 1637.  He was foreman of the first grand jury in New England and served most of his life in early colonial government.  The discussion is part of a planned series of talks about the life and times of the extended Phelps family, and the contributions the clan made within New England.  Free.  To RSVP or for more information, visit www.simsburyfreelibrary.org,  or call (860) 408-1336.

About the Simsbury Free Library
The Simsbury Free Library (the Simsbury Genealogical and Historical Research Library) opened on the second floor of the Hopmeadow District School in 1874.  In 1890, the Library’s collection was moved to its present location at 749 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury.  Today the Simsbury Free Library (SFL) seeks to promote interest in genealogy and history by providing access to research material and expertise, artifacts, and educational and cultural programs.  It seeks to help patrons connect with the past and to learn from and be inspired by those who have gone before them.  The SFL provides a relaxed setting in which people can pursue family research history at their own pace.  For everyone from seasoned genealogy veterans to beginners, the SFL has the staff and resources necessary to help visitors develop the skills required to create family trees, search local histories, look up census records, explore vital records, etc.  
 
The Simsbury Free Library – the Gracious Yellow Lady – is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. as well as by appointment.