Walter Hoyt facts for kids

Walter Hoyt (born September 6, 1618 – died 1698) was an important early settler of Norwalk, Connecticut. He helped found the town. He was also known by other names like Haite, Hayte, Hoit, and Haight.

Walter Hoyt served in the government of the Connecticut Colony. He was a deputy for Norwalk in the General Court from 1658 to 1662. Later, when the name changed, he continued as a deputy of the Connecticut General Assembly until 1681. In 1672, he was also a selectman for Norwalk. This meant he helped manage the town's affairs.

Walter Hoyt's Early Life

Walter Hoyt was born in England. His parents were Simon Haite and Deborah Stowers. He came to America when he was just ten years old in 1628. He traveled with his father and his brother, Nicholas Hoyt.

Helping Norwalk Grow

In 1640, Walter Hoyt owned a good amount of land in Windsor, Connecticut. By 1653, he moved to Norwalk. He was one of the very first people to settle there.

Walter Hoyt was active in the government. He served many times in the General Court of the Connecticut Colony. This was like the state legislature back then. He helped make decisions for the colony in many sessions between 1658 and 1681.

In 1672, Walter Hoyt was among those who suggested starting a new settlement. This new place was planned near Norwalk. He also worked with Ralph Keeler on an important project. They were hired to cut wood and build a house for Reverend Thomas Hanford.

Walter Hoyt also voted in town meetings in Norwalk. In 1685, the General Court officially recognized him as one of Norwalk's founders.

Walter Hoyt's Family Life

Walter Hoyt had four children. His first wife's name is not known. After she passed away, he married Rhoda Tinker Hobbs Taylor in 1653. They were married in Windsor, Connecticut. Walter and Rhoda had one child together, Zerubbabel Hoyt. His other three children were from his first marriage.

• John Hoyt (1644–1711), who married Mary Lindall.
• Elizabeth Hoyt, who married Samuel Sension.
• Hannah Hoyt, who married Judah Gregory.
• Zerubbabel Hoyt (1652–1739), who married Hannah Knapp.

Remembering Walter Hoyt

A place called Hoyt's Hill is named after Walter Hoyt. This historic hill is in the Green area of Norwalk. It is at the corner of East Avenue and Willow Street. People have called it Hoyt's Hill since at least 1679.

Walter Hoyt's name is also on the Founders Stone. This stone lists the names of the first settlers of Norwalk. It is located in the East Norwalk Historical Cemetery.