History

The land was part of an original purchase from the Indians in 1662 for thirty coats - about $100. It included Machimoodus, "the place of noises." So named from subterranean sounds formerly heard there. Layout of highways began in 1669. The first settlement was along Creek Row in 1685. Ferry service across the Connecticut River began in 1695 and ended with the completion of the swing bridge in 1913. The First Ecclesiastical Society was formed in 1704. Shipbuilding and manufacture of cotton goods flourished and declined here during the two centuries before the steamboat era ended in the 1930's. From earliest settlement many streams provided water power for mills. The militia served in three wars, with notable contributions during the Revolution. Areas of town are known as Millingtion, Hadlyme, North Plains, Leesville, Johnsonville, Moodus, Little Haddam, and the East Haddam Landings.

Settlers of East Haddam

1685-1699 Nicholas Ackley, John Bates, John Booge, Daniel Brainard Jr., Thomas Hungerford, Samuel and William Spencer, Abraham and John Willey.

Notable East Haddamites

The Reverend Stephen Hosmer - first minister, Joseph Spencer - major general in Revolution Epaproditus Champion - Commissary, General Nathan Hale - teacher patriot and martyr, Dyar Throop - first judge of county court, Jonathan O. Moseley - U.S Representative, William H Goodspeed - shipbuilder, William E Nichols - inventor and manufacturer, Luther Boardman - silver plating & britannia, Morgan G. Bulkeley - Governor and US Senator, Francis H Parker - local Historian.