[3] Wallingford, Connecticut, is deeply woven into the fabric of early American history, from its founding to its connection with some of the most influential figures of the colonial era.

Established on October 10, 1667, by the Connecticut General Assembly, Wallingford was founded by a group of 38 planters and freemen, including notable figures such as John Moss, Samuel Street, and Robert Wallace.

By May 12, 1670, the settlement had grown to include 126 residents living in temporary housing, and by 1675, 40 permanent homes had been constructed, signaling the town's early growth and stability.

This event reflects the lingering fears and superstitions of the era, even as the fervor of the Salem witch trials had begun to fade.

The railroad connected Wallingford to larger markets in the Northeast, facilitating the transport of goods, including the town's famous silver products, and spurring the development of new industries.

One of the key figures in this industry was Samuel Simpson, a local industrialist and philanthropist who played a pivotal role in Wallingford’s rise as a center of silver manufacturing.

Born in 1800, Beach became the owner of the New York Sun and was known for pioneering the "penny press," making newspapers affordable to the general public.

On August 9, 1878, a devastating tornado struck the town, leaving a path of destruction and claiming the lives of at least 29, and possibly as many as 34, residents.

The 20th century marked a period of suburbanization for Wallingford, as the town transitioned from an industrial hub to a residential community while retaining its economic diversity.

The post-World War II era saw significant growth in Wallingford’s population, driven by the suburban boom that reshaped much of America.

New housing developments sprang up, attracting families looking for a balance between the conveniences of city life and the charm of a smaller town.

The pharmaceutical giant established a research and development facility in Wallingford's MedWay Industrial Park, becoming the town's largest taxpayer and a key contributor to its economy.

The town of Wallingford sits astride the Quinnipiac River in northern New Haven County, roughly 90 miles northeast of New York City.

Ten buildings and districts in Wallingford are listed on the National Register of Historic Places:[27] *Consolidated borough and town