The Norton Legacy: A Chronological Account of Agriculture and Public Service in Cheshire
The history of the Norton family in Cheshire, Connecticut, reflects a continuous presence in agriculture and local government from the mid-18th century through 2025. This account presents a structured, chronological overview of the family’s land holdings, business operations, and civic involvement, with attention to individuals, dates, and locations relevant to the town’s historical record.
1757–1891: Establishment and Early Generations
The Norton family established its agricultural presence in Cheshire in 1757, prior to the town’s incorporation in 1780. The family farm, located at 466 Academy Road, began as a colonial land holding and remained under continuous operation by members of the Norton and Perry families for 268 years.
By the late 19th century, stewardship of the property had passed to Samuel L. Norton and his wife, Elizabeth Booth Norton. Under their management, the farm continued as an active agricultural enterprise within a predominantly rural community. Their work sustained the farm’s role as a local producer during a period of transition in regional agriculture.
1892–1930: Early Life of Birdsey Booth Norton
Birdsey Booth Norton was born in Cheshire on February 17, 1892, the son of Samuel L. Norton and Elizabeth Booth Norton. He was raised on the family farm at Academy Road. He later married Ruby Munson French. His sister, Ruth Norton Booth, was also part of this generation and remained connected to the local community.
In 1930, Birdsey Norton entered public office. He was elected First Selectman of Cheshire, succeeding Frank L. Rice. This marked the beginning of his extended role in municipal leadership.
1931–1953: Municipal Leadership and Community Activity
Birdsey Norton served as First Selectman for 24 years, from 1930 through the early 1950s. His tenure included the periods of the Great Depression, World War II, and early post-war development. During this time, he was involved in administrative decisions affecting infrastructure, land use, and community planning.
The Norton family also participated in local recreational activities during this period:
- October 15, 1944: At New Capitol Alleys, a weekly one-baller bowling event drew 39 participants. Don Norton, son of Birdsey Norton, recorded a high single score of 217 and received first prize of $15. Birdsey Norton placed second with a score of 213 and tied for third place with a score of 211, receiving $10 and $2.50 respectively.
- December 3, 1949: Birdsey Norton won a weekly one-ball tournament at Casino Alleys on State Street with a score of 221.
In 1953, during planning for a new high school on South Main Street, the Board of Education considered naming the school after Birdsey Norton in recognition of his role in securing the 49-acre site. Alternative proposals included “Cheshire Memorial High School,” supported by the American Legion R. A. Storrs Post 92. On August 18, 1953, the Board selected the name “Cheshire High School.”
1954–1955: Death and Memorial Recognition
Birdsey Norton remained active in his official duties until shortly before his death. On July 22, 1954, he presided over a Board of Registration session. On July 24, 1954, he suffered a heart attack and was transported to Waterbury Hospital, where he died later that day at age 62.
Funeral services were held on July 28, 1954, at his residence on Academy Road. Burial followed at Hillside Cemetery.
He was affiliated with Temple Lodge, AF & AM, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.
On January 17, 1955, Board of Education Chairman Mark Bishop announced that a new elementary school in the Brook’s Vale area would be named the Birdsey B. Norton School. The building was designed by architect Gordon MacMaster and constructed by Radford B. Anderlot. The 10-room school opened in September 1955.
1956–2025: Continued Farm Operations and Closure
The Norton Brothers Fruit Farm continued operations as a seventh-generation family business through the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Management included family members such as Jim Norton and Sonya Norton.
The farm became known locally for direct-to-consumer agriculture, including pick-your-own produce and seasonal offerings. Products included apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, blueberries, and raspberries. Seasonal activities included hayrides and the sale of Christmas trees.
The family’s historical and genealogical records were compiled by Walter W. Norton. These materials are preserved in archival collections at Yale University.
In May 2025, the Norton Brothers Fruit Farm and its associated farm stand permanently closed. The closure marked the end of 268 years of continuous agricultural use at the Academy Road property. Subsequent discussions regarding the future of the site have involved considerations of land use and development within the town of Cheshire.
This account documents the Norton family’s sustained involvement in agriculture and municipal governance, with specific reference to individuals, events, and institutions that contributed to Cheshire’s historical development over nearly three centuries.
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