Edward Wooster facts for kids
Edward Wooster (born in England in 1622, died July 8, 1689) was an early English settler in Colonial America. He is known as the first person to permanently settle in Derby, Connecticut.
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Who Was Edward Wooster?
Edward Wooster first appears in historical records in 1642. He was one of the first colonists to live in Milford, Connecticut. In 1651, he received special permission to settle an area called "Paugusset." This area later became known as Derby.
Edward Wooster's Role in the Community
Edward Wooster helped his new settlement in many ways. In 1669, he was chosen to be the constable of Paugusset. A constable was like a police officer back then. They helped keep order and enforce rules.
The "Wolf Killer"
Wooster earned a special nickname: "the wolf killer." He was very good at hunting wolves. These animals were a threat to the settlers' livestock. The town even paid him a reward for helping to get rid of the wolves. In 1659, he asked the court in New Haven for payment. He had killed seven wolves in or near "Paugassett," which was the name for Derby at that time.
Edward Wooster's Legacy
Edward Wooster passed away on July 8, 1689. His tombstone in Derby shares a special message about his life and importance to the area. It reminds everyone that he was the very first permanent settler in Derby.
