Stepney, Connecticut
1801
The Bridgeport-Newtown Turnpike, a toll road, opens — the forerunner of the present Route 25.
1817
The one-acre Parade ground “Birdsey’s Plain/Stepney Green” is purchased for $140 by the Birdsey’s Plain Rifle Company.
1823
The parish of New Stratford becomes a separate town named Monroe. The town is named for the popular President James Monroe.
1833
Monroe and Newtown Turnpike opens, connecting Stepney to Danbury via Hattertown Road.
1839
The first of the twin churches on the Stepney Green — Methodist-Episcopal church is dedicated.
1840
The Housatonic Railroad arrives in Stepney, ushering in industry and a new era.
1848
The second of the twin churches — the Baptist Meetinghouse — is dedicated.
1850
Monroe establishes 7 school districts:
- Stepney
- East Village
- Birdsey’s Plain
- Cutler’s Farm
- Centre
- Elm Street
- Walker’s Farm
