History Close to Home – Native Americans & Early Settlers…It’s Complicated! (Hybrid)

Chickens Warrups, John Read, Long Lots and an Oblong? Find out about these people and places from Redding’s early history (and more!) with Brent Colley, Redding’s town historian. Brent talks about the Native Americans who called this area home, along with the town’s first European settlers.

Brent Colley grew up in Redding and comes from a family that called this town home for five generations. He credits his grandfather, Harry Colley, for instilling a curiosityand a love for the town’s past. Colley leads walking tours, slide shows and speaking engagements that showcase the people, places, and events that have enriched the histories and shaped the landscapes of Branchville, Georgetown, and Redding.

Brent also created and maintains the town’s comprehensive online resource: historyofredding.net. In addition to his passion for all things history, Brent is First Selectman of Sharon, CT, where he currently lives with his wife, Christine, and their three children.

History Close to Home is an occasional series delving into the unique and fascinating history of both Redding and the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re a newcomer to Redding, or an old-timer, this series offers opportunities to learn more about our collective stories and shared past.