Ralph Keeler facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ralph Keeler
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| Born | 1613 |
| Died | September 10, 1672 |
| Occupation | carpenter, realtor, chimney-viewer |
| Spouse(s) | first wife unknown, Sarah Howes Whelpley, widow of Henry Whelpley, of Norwalk (m. 1663, Fairfield, Connecticut) |
| Children | John Keeler, Ralph Keeler, Isabel Keeler, Rebecca Keeler, Elizabeth Keeler, Samuel Keeler |
Ralph Keeler (also spelled Keiler) was an important early settler in Connecticut, United States. He helped start two towns: Hartford and Norwalk. He was born in 1613 and passed away on September 10, 1672.
Contents
Early Life and Move to America
Ralph Keeler was likely born in a place called Lawford in Essex, England, around the year 1613.
He came to America and settled in Hartford around 1639. He owned a piece of land there. In 1645, he had a job called "chimney-viewer." This meant he checked chimneys to make sure they were safe and working correctly.
Helping to Build Norwalk
Ralph Keeler was one of the people who signed an agreement in June 1650 to start a new town called Norwalk. This was a big step in creating the community.
Around 1651 or 1652, he sold his land in Hartford and moved to Norwalk. His brother, Walter Keeler, also settled there.
In Norwalk, Ralph continued to be an active member of the community. In 1668, he was named a freeman. This meant he was a respected adult male who could vote and participate in town decisions.
He was also a skilled carpenter. In September 1668, he and another settler, Walter Hoyt, were hired to cut wood and build a house for the local minister, Reverend Thomas Hanford. Ralph Keeler was also hired to build a long fence for the town.
Ralph Keeler's Legacy
Ralph Keeler is remembered as a founder of both Hartford and Norwalk. His name is carved on special stones in both towns. These stones honor the people who helped establish these early settlements.
Notable Family Members
Ralph Keeler has many descendants who have done important things. Some of them include:
- Edwin O. Keeler: He was the first mayor of Norwalk when it became a city (from 1893 to 1894). He also served as the Lieutenant Governor of Connecticut from 1901 to 1903.
- Anson F. Keeler: He was also a mayor of Norwalk (from 1927 to 1930). He served in the Connecticut Senate and was the Connecticut State Comptroller from 1933 to 1935.
- Norman Rockwell: A very famous American painter known for his pictures of everyday life.
