Herman Hotchkiss facts for kids
Herman Hotchkiss (born July 1, 1765 – died February 20, 1836) was an important early settler in East Haven, Connecticut. Many people consider him the founder of Fair Haven, Connecticut. He didn't discover the area, as other Europeans found it in 1639. Instead, he helped Fair Haven grow by investing a lot of money and effort into building it up.
Who Was Herman Hotchkiss?
Herman Hotchkiss was born in 1765. He lived during a time when many new towns were being settled and built in America. He played a key role in developing Fair Haven.
Records from the North Congregational Church in New Haven, Connecticut show that Herman Hotchkiss married Elizabeth Ford on July 28, 1793.
Building Fair Haven
Herman Hotchkiss started building in Fair Haven in 1806. He built the first permanent house in the community. This house was two stories tall. He also built a barn and sheds for horses.
Hotchkiss saw that Fair Haven had a lot of potential for business. In 1811, he teamed up with his business partner, James Barnes. They bought land near where the Dragon Bridge was planned.
Together, Hotchkiss and Barnes built important structures. They built wharves (docks for boats). They also built a store, a tavern, and a hotel. Hotchkiss kept buying land in the area until he passed away in 1836. His work helped Fair Haven become a thriving community.
His Final Resting Place
Herman Hotchkiss was buried at the Fair Haven Union Cemetery. His grave has an Obelisk monument.
