Central Hilltoppers
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Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Why Hilltoppers?
Surefire Ways to Tell if You Are From Bridgeport
Surefire Ways To Tell If You Are From Bridgeport
1. "Iranistan" has only three syllables, and none of them contain an "i."
2. No matter what store they put on the corner of North and Park, it will always be called King Cole.
3. The Duchess at the nexus of North and Boston will forever be Maraczi's. Tomlinson is also The Greek's.
4. The mall in Trumbull is better known as Korvette's.
5. You're used to hearing people pronounce "Shelton" without a semblance of a "t."
6. Anywhere north of Trumbull is called "up the line."
7. You had a bike from Rocky Voccola's.
8. You actually shopped downtown, especially at Christmas.
9. You're used to asking people what parish they are from.
10. You have no problem going to urban places like Yankee Stadium.
11. You couldn't tell the Candelite from the Pix.
12. You attended cartoon-laden matinees at the Hi-Way, Merritt or Beverly.
13. You are fully aware of, and don't have a problem with Greek pizza.
14. On the same topic, terms like "ahbeets," "mani-goat" and "scamotes" need no translation.
15. When you mention Central High School, there is no need to throw in the city's name as a qualifier.
16. The paper is still the Bridgeport Post.
17. Notre Dame H. S. and SHU are still in Bridgeport.
18. You know NOT to tell the guy at the Canteen "what's on that dog" until he has it in the cradle.
19. You ate Pizza from Mario the Bakers if you were in the North End and Jennys on the West side
20. Seaside Park is still the only beach in the area with no homes built on it and a dump behind it - never stopped any of us from going there - day or night.
21. You went Ice Skating on Sunday afternoons at Wonderland of Ice.
22. You went sled riding at Fairchild Wheeler or Beardsley Park depending upon who was driving, parents Beardsley Park - friends Fairchild Wheeler
23. Connoisseurs of hot dogs: Dog's were always eaten at Homas next to Remington at the Point.
24. The Midway was the social event of the summer.
25. It was and always will be the Barnum & Bailey Circus at Seaside.
26. St. V's needed no explanation to define what it was (i.e He's at St. V's...) .
27. Various areas of town if not defined by parish were called the Hollow, the NorthEnd, Southside, Eastside.
28. Who didn't shop at Skydels? Or Nydens?
29. Who hasn't had at least one meal at DrumStik Barbecue or Galaxy Diner?
30. The parking lot across from McD's on Main St was the "lot" (Mr & Mrs. Pool Hall)
31. The end of Seaside was the "Point"
32. If you were from the East Side you ate pizza at Valley Farms.
33. The Harding/Central game was the only Thanksgiving game that mattered.
34. You walked to Grants on Boston Ave. or Shoppers Fair at the other end.
35. You knew that if there were "chop sides" you didn't want to be on the weaker team.
36. You remember the groceries going underground at King Cole.
37. You knew the Pacelli's had the best jelly donuts in the world.
38. McDonalds on State Street will always be Junior's.
39. At least once, everyone went to Seaside to see Howe!
40. Everyone knew where the real Morrows "NUT HOUSE" was, Main and Fairfield.
41. Everyone always knew there was a difference between the East Side and the East End.
42. Number 13 could always take you home unless it was truly late, then you'd have to take 2 and walk fast!
This list started when Ace Holleran wrote the first 15 or so "facts" and emailed them to one friend in an experiment to see how far the chain would go. She passed it along to her list. It's traveled all over the world.
1. "Iranistan" has only three syllables, and none of them contain an "i."
2. No matter what store they put on the corner of North and Park, it will always be called King Cole.
3. The Duchess at the nexus of North and Boston will forever be Maraczi's. Tomlinson is also The Greek's.
4. The mall in Trumbull is better known as Korvette's.
5. You're used to hearing people pronounce "Shelton" without a semblance of a "t."
6. Anywhere north of Trumbull is called "up the line."
7. You had a bike from Rocky Voccola's.
8. You actually shopped downtown, especially at Christmas.
9. You're used to asking people what parish they are from.
10. You have no problem going to urban places like Yankee Stadium.
11. You couldn't tell the Candelite from the Pix.
12. You attended cartoon-laden matinees at the Hi-Way, Merritt or Beverly.
13. You are fully aware of, and don't have a problem with Greek pizza.
14. On the same topic, terms like "ahbeets," "mani-goat" and "scamotes" need no translation.
15. When you mention Central High School, there is no need to throw in the city's name as a qualifier.
16. The paper is still the Bridgeport Post.
17. Notre Dame H. S. and SHU are still in Bridgeport.
18. You know NOT to tell the guy at the Canteen "what's on that dog" until he has it in the cradle.
19. You ate Pizza from Mario the Bakers if you were in the North End and Jennys on the West side
20. Seaside Park is still the only beach in the area with no homes built on it and a dump behind it - never stopped any of us from going there - day or night.
21. You went Ice Skating on Sunday afternoons at Wonderland of Ice.
22. You went sled riding at Fairchild Wheeler or Beardsley Park depending upon who was driving, parents Beardsley Park - friends Fairchild Wheeler
23. Connoisseurs of hot dogs: Dog's were always eaten at Homas next to Remington at the Point.
24. The Midway was the social event of the summer.
25. It was and always will be the Barnum & Bailey Circus at Seaside.
26. St. V's needed no explanation to define what it was (i.e He's at St. V's...) .
27. Various areas of town if not defined by parish were called the Hollow, the NorthEnd, Southside, Eastside.
28. Who didn't shop at Skydels? Or Nydens?
29. Who hasn't had at least one meal at DrumStik Barbecue or Galaxy Diner?
30. The parking lot across from McD's on Main St was the "lot" (Mr & Mrs. Pool Hall)
31. The end of Seaside was the "Point"
32. If you were from the East Side you ate pizza at Valley Farms.
33. The Harding/Central game was the only Thanksgiving game that mattered.
34. You walked to Grants on Boston Ave. or Shoppers Fair at the other end.
35. You knew that if there were "chop sides" you didn't want to be on the weaker team.
36. You remember the groceries going underground at King Cole.
37. You knew the Pacelli's had the best jelly donuts in the world.
38. McDonalds on State Street will always be Junior's.
39. At least once, everyone went to Seaside to see Howe!
40. Everyone knew where the real Morrows "NUT HOUSE" was, Main and Fairfield.
41. Everyone always knew there was a difference between the East Side and the East End.
42. Number 13 could always take you home unless it was truly late, then you'd have to take 2 and walk fast!
This list started when Ace Holleran wrote the first 15 or so "facts" and emailed them to one friend in an experiment to see how far the chain would go. She passed it along to her list. It's traveled all over the world.
Bridgeport Trivia
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Answer 25 questions in a row correct and you will get into the Bridgeport Trivia Hall of Fame. Warning, it is harder than it looks.  Start Bridgeport Trivia
Hall of Fame
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Places we used to go
Contributed by Ronald E. Rondyke
Many people went to Pleasure Beach via the rickity old wooden bridge to go on the rides or use the beach. WICC had their antenna towers there.
Some use to go Savin Rock in West Haven for the rides and the foods. Especially the Crinkle Cut potatoes in the paper cones.
Others use to go to Jimmy's and watch the grill being loaded up with hot dogs being split and the rolls being toasted on the other grill.
Many people use to also go to the Buglight or Contes for Dogs, hamburgers, Chow Mein Sandwiches or Lobster rolls.
Whenever my dad and I needed a new suit for Easter, we use to go Levitt's on Main and Fairfield Avenues.
I use to go to Thom McCan's on East Main Street for a pair of PF Flyer sneakers or US Keds.
Most of the kids use to hang out at Jean's on East Main Street after school for a 'coke' or a ice cream sundae. Plus dance to the latest tunes on the juke box
There were a lot of theaters in Bridgeport at one time; The Hippodrome, American Strand, Lyric,Globe,Capital,Rialto,Rivoli which were there long before the Beverly and the Hi Way! Among a lot of others like the Lowes Poli and the Majestic. Where everyone went for the very latest in new movies.
We use to have the 'shoe shine stands' at the railroad station and the PAL use to have the school age kids set up on street corners to offer people a shine.
Besides Howlands and Reads Department stores, there was also Woolworth's, Grants, Blinns craft and model car shop behind Howlands.
The place to go for a really oversized sandwich was the Windmill Restaurant out in Stratford. One would also go out the 'Cricket' by the airport and grab a footlong hot dog. Or they could run out to Monroe to Jackies for a foot long.
Many working people use to go Whites Diner up on Boston Avenue for a meal. Or out to the Hi Way Diner. Perhaps even over to the Howard Johnsons.
In the Downtown area some would go to the 'Coney Island' and get a hotdog,etc. Then go next door to the Penny Arcade to play a few games.
Others would go up to the 'Main Line Diner' on Main street for a meal.
The 'old' Port Jefferson Ferry use to dock at Stratford Avenue Bridge and take people to "P.J." The 'old' Brickerhoff Ferry use to take people from there to Pleasure Beach Park,too!
The U.I. was on the lower end of East Main Street and powered the city. Kozdeba's was on the corner of East Main Street and Stratford Avenue where many a person use to purchase their appliances.
On East Main Street we use to have our own butcher, shoe repair and over on Pembroke Street was the chicken store. 'Doc Eddo's' was the place to go for the those who had paper routes to pick up their pile of papers and fold them before going on their rounds.
Also to get 'penny candy!' Who could forget the Raybestos womens softball team or the Connecticut Yankees Drum and Bugle Corp?
How about the 'Ice Cream Palor' out in Westport and the "Pig's Trough?"
Then,too, the old Barnum Festival Parades, and the fireworks and the circus or the carnival.
The guys use to tell the girls about taking them down to Seaside Park and show them the "Submarine Races" or they would show them HOWE standing up.
Another 'hotdog stand ' I forgot to mention is Homa's at the end of Main Street.
Paintings of Old Bridgeport
I would like to thank Lou Trapasso for letting us show his beautiful paintings of
Old Bridgeport on our site. If you would like to learn more about the paintings you can visit Lou's web site at : http://picturepainter.com/ |
Jokes from Central's Literary Magazine
Here's a few you might not have heard, from Central's Literary Magazines
The Pen and the Criterion
After you are done please click on link at the bottom and vote for your Favorite Joke - Remember its Number!!- "I can't make up my mind whether to go in for painting or poetry."
"Well, if I might advise you, painting."
"You've seen some of my pictures then?"
"No, but I've heard some of your poems."
The Criterion, January, 1914 - Rolleri - "There's a fellow I'd like to see in the Bridgeport Hospital."
Doorfee - "Well, why don't you go up and see him."
Rolleri - "He's not there yet."
The Pen, 1928 - Bill Perry - "Father, one of the boys said I looked like you."
Mr. Perry - "Well, what did you say?"
Bill Perry - "Nothing. He was a lot bigger than I."
The Pen, 1928 - Raskind: Got a minute to spare?
Slovatsky: Sure thing, what'll you have?
Raskind: Tell me all you know
The Criterion, October, 1917 - He: Why were you weeping in the picture show?
She: It was a moving picture
The Criterion, October, 1917 - "My first wife said if I married again, she'd dig her way out of the grave and haunt me."
"But you did marry again."
"Yes, but I buried her face down. Let her dig!"
The Pen, April, 1924 - Prof. - "You're a fine speciman! Here I've taught you everything I know and still you don't know anything."
The Pen, November, 1924 - Teacher: Your last paper was very difficult to read. Your work should be written so that the most ignorant will be able to understand it.
Pupil: I see. What part didn't you understand?
The Pen, December, 1924 - Voice on Phone - John Smith is sick and won't be able to attend classes today.
Mr. Fiske - All right. Who is this?
Voice on Phone - This is my brother
The Pen, January, 1930 - Pupil - "May I borrow some ink?"
Teacher - "Are you sure its borrowed?"
Pupil - "O, yes, you'll get it back on my English paper!"
The Pen, November, 1928 - "Pa, you remember you promised to give me $5.00 if I passed in school this marking period."
"Yes, Tom"
"Well, Pa, you ain't gonna have that expense."
The Pen, November, 1928 - A college professor, who had no use for the weaker sex, asked a question of his class. He called on a typical flapper and hearing no response asked for her again.
She said, "Well, I did answer, I shook my head."
The prof. returned, "Well, am I supposed to hear it rattle way up here?"
The Pen, June, 1929 - Little girls shouldn't tell stories; they might grow up to be women novelists
The Pen, April, 1929 - Teacher - Now, how much time did you spend on your Latin last night?
Student - Oh, I should judge between 30 and 40 minutes.
Teacher - I see - about 10 minutes.
The Pen, November, 1929 - Mrs. Wright - "Seiler, give me an example of a paradox."
Seiler - "Well, Washington fought all his life for liberty and then went and got married."
The Pen, March, 1928 - Madame Hawes: "Keeping you after school hurts me more than it does you."
Forret: "Don't be too severe with yourself, Madame."
The Pen, March, 1928 - Teacher (to student) "You're not fit for decent company. Come up here with me."
The Criterion, April, 1911 - Teacher : A fool can ask questions that a wise man can't answer.
Pupil : That's why we all flunked.
The Criterion, March, 1918 - Your father asked me if I could support you in the style to which you are accustomed.
And what did you say to him?
Why I told him I certainly could as long as you kept your present weight.
The Criterion, April, 1920 - Patrick O'Day was looking for work. He finally entered a barber shop, and inquired whether or not he could obtain employment.
"What can you do?" said the proprieter. "Can you paint the barber pole?"
"Shure, if you give me some striped paint"
The Criterion, January, 1917 - Bill - Where's your brother?
Jill - Oh he's down-town learning to drill.
Bill - Ah! is he going to be a soldier?
Jill - No, a dentist
The Criterion, Easter, 1916 - Husband - But you must admit that men have better judgement than women.
Wife - Oh yes, you married me and I married you.
The Criterion, Christmas, 1915 - Proud father - You ought to see that kid of mine. He's grown a foot since you last saw him.
Duplicate - That's nothing; my boy has two feet now.
The Criterion, January, 1917 - "If there were four flies on a table and I killed one, how many would be left?", inquired the Teacher.
"One", answered the bright little girl," the dead one"
The Criterion, February, 1915 - The following is told of a certain principal of a high school :
One day at school he gave a bright boy a sum in algebra, and, although the problem was comparatively easy the boy couldn't do it
The principal then said, "You ought to be ashamed of yourself. At your age George Washington was a surveyor."
The boy looked him straight in the eyes and replied :
"Yes, sir; and at your age he was President of the United States."
The Criterion, Easter, 1913 - Physics Prof. (after a long-winded explanation): "And now, gentlemen, we get x equal to zero."
Student in the back of the room. "Wew! All that work for nothing!"
The Criterion, April, 1912 - Upon being introduced to Pat O'Reilly a man asked him if he was related to Tim O'Reilly. "Distantly", replied Pat. "Tim was my mother's first child and I was her twelfth."
The Criterion, Thanksgiving, 1913
Dates in Bridgeport History
Dates in Bridgeport History
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January 1 1874 Gustave "First in Flight" Whitehead was born.
January 2 1958 The Connecticut Turnpike officially opened January 3 1993 An article in the Connecticut Post informs the public of the Golden Hill Paugussett Nation land claims in Bridgeport and Trumbull. January 4 1830 Charles Stratton, better known as Tom Thumb, was born in Bridgeport. January 5 1948 Central High alumnus James Shannon leaves Governor 's office. January 6 1996 Blizzard hits Bridgeport, 17 inches of snow recorded. January 7 1948 Congress Junior High School burns down. January 8 1919 Baseball Hall of Famer James O’Rourke Died January 8 1649 Joseph Middlebrook along with 8 others settled in the Pequonnock (Bridgeport) district of Fairfield and was granted by the town of Fairfield one home lots consisting of 2 1/2 acres January 10 1958 Congragation B'nai Israel dedicates its second Park Avenue Temple. January 11 1943 Future Staff Sergeant William D Carson, casualty of the Vietnam War. was born in Bridgeport. As a member of the Army, SSG Carson served our country until December 25th, 1966 in South Vietnam. January 12 1906 The Mohegan Springs Bottling Plant was destroyed by fire with a $35,000 loss January 13 1957 The Wham-O Company developed the first plastic Frisbee. The most popular theory as to how this flying disc came to be dates back to the 1920s when Yale students invented a game of catch by tossing around metal pie tins from the Frisbee Baking Company in nearby Bridgeport, Connecticut. January 14 1840 The Lexington, a paddlewheeler, sank just south of BPT January 15 1872 Mr. Ferry, of Connecticut, presented a memorial of citizens of Bridgeport, Connecticut, to the United States Senate praying that the influence of the Government may be exerted to induce all the great powers to enter into treaties of arbitration for the settlement of international disputes; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. January 16 1810 The warden and burgesses met and established by-laws for the community, one of which restrained swine from going at large with borough limits. January 16 1882 Bridgeport Public Library located at 440 Main Street opens its doors to the residents of the city. January 17 1917 John Curtis, Medal of Honor Winner dies. January 18 1894 Civil War General William Henry Noble died. January 21 1777 Captain Thaddeus Bennett dies in the Revolutionary War. January 22 1958 Igor Sikorsky received Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Citizen's Award. January 23 1866 Cars commenced to travel over the tracks of the Bridgeport Horse Railroad. January 24 1964 Future Cinncinatti Reds pitcher, Ron Dibble, is born in Bridgeport. January 25 1986 Former University of Bridgeport player Manute Bol has 15 blocked shots for the Washington Bullets. January 27 1777 Captain Thaddeus Bennett, of Bridgeport, dies in the Revolutionary War. January 30 1945 Col. Henry Mucci of Bridgeport and Army Rangers raid a Japanese prisoner of war camp and frees prisoners. January 31 1927 The Drag, Mae West's play about gay men, opened in Bridgeport Connecticut. February 2 2002 Dick Alexander, who was the area's first black radio announcer when his career began decades ago at WICC in Bridgeport, died February 5 1892 A federal building is erected on the corner of Broad and Cannon St. on the site of the old St. John's Church and opened to the public. February 7 1883 George W. Hills first published the Daily Post in East Bridgeport in 1883. February 9 1928 Walt Kelly's cartoon appears in "The Spectator", the student newspaper at Harding. February 10 1863 Tom Thumb and Lavinia Warren married February 11 1840 The Housatonic Railroad opened with the first train travelling from Bridgeport to New Milford. February 12 1902 Major League Baseball player Kiddo Davis born in Bridgeport. February 15 1795 Harvey Hubble was born in Bridgeport February 16 1946 1st commercially designed helicopter tested in Bridgeport February 20 1934 The Bizzard of 1934 struck Bridgeport. February 21 1947 Edwin Land demonstrated an instant camera and associated film. Called the Land Camera, it was in commercial sale less than two years later. February 22 1815 Parade in Bridgeport celebrating peace between Britain and America. There was also a ball later in the evening at Knapp's Hotel. February 27 1976 Downtown Caberet Theatre's official opening with VAUDEVILLE TROUPE March 1 1850 The Rev. William Jennings was installed as minister at the new Black Rock Congregational Church. March 3 1920 Two time U.S. Open winning golfer Julius Boros is born in Bridgeport March 3 1982 Bridgeport Fire Captain Francis D. Federici died in line of duty. March 4 1983 Major League Baseball player Kiddo Davis died in Bridgeport. March 4 1938 Angus MacLise was born in Bridgeport. He would go on to become the first drummer for the classic rock band, The Velvet Underground. March 7 1948 Central High alumnus James Shannon takes over as governor of Connecticut when the governor dies in office. March 10 1860 Abraham Lincoln spoke to a large crowd in Washington Hall in Bridgeport. March 10 1970 Bridgeport Fireman Robert Siksay died in line of duty March 10 1860 Abraham Lincoln ate his first fried oyster dinner at the home of Frederick Wood in Bridgeport. March 11 1988 Blizzard of 1888 hits Bridgeport creating drifts of up to 14 feet. March 13 1865 Bridgeport's William Henry Noble is brevetted Brigadier General in the Union Army. March 15 2002 Creighton eliminated Florida in the 1st round of the 2002 NCAA Tournament when Bridgeport's Terrell Taylor fit a game winning 3 point shot giving Creighton an 83-82 victory. Taylor was 8 of 10 from the 3 point line in the second half. March 17 2004 John Mayer plays at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport March 18 1999 Bridgeport Firefighter Walter J. Flyntz died in line of duty March 19 2003 Mayor Ganim was convicted on multiple federal charges. March 20 1979 Bridgeport's Romanesque-style railroad station, vacant since the 1975 construction of the new station,was destroyed by fire. March 21 1983 Bridgeport Fire Captain Albert McGovern died in line of duty March 22 2003 Central High School wins wins State Basketball Boys Championship. March 22 1969 Dedication of Bridgeport Courthouse March 28 1949 The movie, The Red Pony, starring Robert Mitchuum opens in the US. April 1 1854 A new jail was erected on Broad Street. April 3 1876 PT Barnum's official term as mayor ended. April 4 1897 Christian Science had its beginning in Bridgeport when a group of 10 people met in the home of George M. Cleland at 67 Seeley Street, and decided to begin having Christian Science meetings. April 5 1875 P.T. Barnum was elected mayor of Bridgeport. April 6 1947 John Ratzenberger (Cliff Claven) is born in Black Rock. April 7 1891 P.T. Barnum died April 8 1795 The American Telegraphe newspaper begins publication in Bridgeport. April 9, 2002 Quote from President George W. Bush while he was in Bridgeport: "And so, in my State of the -- my State of the Union -- or state -- my speech to the nation, whatever you want to call it, speech to the nation -- I asked Americans to give 4,000 years -- 4,000 hours over the next -- the rest of your life." April 10 1865 A great celebration was held in Bridgeport celebrating the fall of Richmond and the surrender of Lee's army. April 12 1841 Isaac Sherman, the first Mayor of Bridgeport is named postmaster. April 13 1944 Executive Order 9435 signed, Authorizing the Secretary of the Navy To Take Possession of and To Operate the Plants and Facilities of Jenkins Brothers, Inc., at Bridgeport, Connecticut April 14 2003 Aerosmith plays at the Harboryard Arena. April 15 1869 E.E. Hubell, George E. Wheaton, John Knowles, and H.R. Parrott are elected as the first police comissioners of Bridgeport. April 18 1889 Bridgeport was enlarged as the borough of West Stratford was taken in. April 19 1957 The movie, Heaven Knows Mr. Allison, starring Robert Mitchuum opens in the US. April 19 1973 Bridgeport Fireman William Keogh died in line of fire April 20 1861 A great war meeting was held in Bridgeport. Mayor Sterling presided. April 22, 1876 Jim O’Rourke got the first hit in the first game in the National League April 23 1987 L'Ambiance tragedy, where a partially-completed apartment complex collapsed in 1987, killing 28 construction workers. April 26 1872 James "Orator" o'Rourke first entered the major leagues with the Middleton Mansfields. April 27 2004 Elton John played at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport April 28 2004 Elton John played at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport April 29 2003 Cher played at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport April 30 1995 Bridgeport Jai Alai fronton had its last night. May 1 1902 The first prototype gasoline-powered Locomobile is completed at the company's factory in Bridgeport, Connecticut. May 5 2003 LL Cool J and Lil Kim play at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport May 6 1891 Adriana Caselotti voice of Disney's Snow White is born in Bridgeport May 10 1924 Mrs. Warren Harding helps lay cornerstone for Warren Harding High School. May 11 2000 Pope John Paul II named Bishop Edward M. Egan of Bridgeport, Conn., the new head of the New York archdiocese. May 12 1909 Pope John Paul II named Bishop Edward M. Egan of Bridgeport, Conn., the new head of the New York archdiocese. Edwin Herbert Land was born in Bridgeport. Among other things, he invented inexpensive filters for polarizing light, instant polaroid photography, and his retinex theory of color vision. At one time, he was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's richest scientist. May 14 1906 15 tons of powder exploded and Remington woods caught fire. May 16 1917 Bridgeport based Bassick Company is formed by the consolidation of the Burns and Bassick Company, the Universal Carter Company of New Jersey, and the M.B. Schenck Company of Connecticut. May 17 1970 Chris Smith UCONN all time leading basketball scorer is born. May 21 1807 The Bridgeport Bank opens with a capital stock of 200,000 in a house on Water Street. May 21 1998 Bluefish plays the first baseball game at Harbor Yard May 22 1955 Police in Bridgeport, Conn. cancel a scheduled dance headlined by Fats Domino, because, authorities say, "rock and roll dances might be featured." They justify their action noting "a recent near riot at the New Haven Arena," where rock and roll dances were featured. May 25 1971 Major League Baseball player Angel Echevarria born in Bridgeport. May 26 1959 Frisbee becomes a registered trademark of Wham-O Company. It was named for William Russell Frisbie of Bridgeport former owner of Frisbie Pie Company. May 29 1997 The owners of the Bridgeport Bluefish reveals the name of their new minor league baseball team at a press conference. June 1 1976 Bridgeport Jai Alai's opening night. June 2 1831 P.T. Barnum's circus first began tour of the U.S. June 4 1836 CHARTER DAY!!! Bridgeport was officially incorporated as a city. June 5 1771 James Beardsley , who became a wealthy cattle baron, was born. June 8 1877 Fire at hat factory on Crecent Avenue killed 11 people. June 11 1821 Bridgeport holds its first Town meeting with General Enoch Foote presiding. June 12 1886 Bridgeport based Western Union Company gains control of telegraph line from New York to Boston. June 13 1695 Rev. Charles Chauncey was ordaineed as first pastor of the "First Church of Christ in Stratfield." June 14 1942 The first bazooka, a rocket gun, was produced in Bridgeport, CT. June 14 1952 Bridgeport born Julius Boros wins US Open. June 14 1987 Lakers with Bridgeport's Wes Matthews win NBA Championship. June 15 1930 Bridgeport Harbor Lighthouse Keeper Daniel F. McCoart rescued three persons whose boat had lost its rudder in a rough sea. The keeper towed the vessel into Bridgeport Harbor. June 16 1936 Opening of Barnum Museum. June 16 1878 Neal Ball's historic first Triple Play in Major League Basball June 18 1891 Jacob Scheele became the last person hanged in the Bridgeport Jail. June 19, 1909 A statue is unveiled in Beardsley Park dedicated to James. W. Beardsley. June 21, 1979 Angus MacLise died. Angus was born in Bridgeport on March 4, 1938 and was the first drummer for the classic rock band The Velvet Underground. June 22 1988 Lakers with Bridgeport's Wes Matthews win their second straight championship. June 23 1963 Julius Boros wins US Open again June 28 1905 St. Vincent's Medical Center formally opens following a call for a new Catholic hospital. June 29 1978 Actor Bob Crane was bludgeoned to death in Scottsdale, Arizona, in a murder case that was never officially solved. June 30 1853 General Assembly, stated that "from and after the first day of October next, the Supreme court of Errors, the Superior court and the County court in the county of Fairfield," should be held in Bridgeport. July 1 1997 Actor Robert Mitchum died. July 3 1959 Future St. Loius Cardinal, Kurt Kepshire, is born in Bridgeport July 4 1863 Williams Hicks performs heroic acts at Gettysburg which would later win him the Medal of Honor. July 4 1893 The bronze statue of PT Barnum is unveiled in Seaside Park. July 5 1810 P.T. Barnum is born in Bethel. His father was names Philo and his grandfather Ephraim was a captain in the Revolutionary War. July 7 1886 Medal of Honor Winner John MacKenzie was born. July 9 1819 Elias Howe was born. July 12 1911 The Federal Express of the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad, carrying the St. Louis Cardinals to Boston, plunges down an 18-foot embankment outside Bridgeport, CT, killing 14 passengers. The team's Pullmans were originally just behind the baggage coaches near the front. When noise prevented the players from sleeping, manager Bresnahan requested the car be changed. The day coach that replaced the players' car was crushed and splintered. The players help remove bodies and rescue the injured, then board a special train to Boston, where the day's game is postponed. The railroad pays each player $25 for his rescue work and for lost belongings. July 13 1878 Professor C.F. Ritchel of Bridgeport appears on the cover of Harper's weekly demonstrating his new flying machine. July 13 1969 Blind Faith, with Eric Clapton, appear in a concert at Kennedy Stadium. July 14 1893 The Bridgeport Traction Company was formed from the Bridgeport Horse railway company, The Bridgeport Railway company and the East End Railway Company. July 15 1883 Tom Thumb died. July 19 1909 Cornelius “Neal” Ball completes Major League baseball’s very first Unassisted Triple Play. July 21 1903 Roy Neuberger, future founder of the Neuberger Museum of Art is born in Bridgeport. July 22 1918 Due to World War I, the Eastern League of baseball gets shut down, leaving the Bridgeport Giants in second place. July 23 1862 William Noble of Bridgeport is commissioned as Colonel of the 17th Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers. July 24 1917 Bridgeport holds World War I parade. July 25 1936 The audience at the Park Theater in Bridgeport, Connecticut applauded the closing night performance of Macbeth directed by Orsen Welles. July 26 1883 Elias Howe's Bridgeport factory burns down. July 27 1979 Bridgeport Lieutenant Nicholas Soltis died in line of duty July 28 1771 Lt. David Sherman and Captain John Burr were both struck and killed by lightning while worshipping at a meeting house. July 29 1905 11 inches of rain in 16 hours broke dam at Beardsley Park causing a flood August 1 1968 The Doors perform in a concert at Kennedy Stadium. August 4 1930 The first baseball night game in Bridgeport is played at Newfield Park as the Bridgeport Bears took on the Springfield Ponies. August 5 1862 John Curtis performed heroic acts at Battle of Baton Rouge which would later earn him a Medal of Honor. August 6 1917 Robert Mitchum is born in Bridgeport. August 6 1953 The Diocese of Bridgeport was established August 7 1956 Bridgeport, Connecticut: Mechanics and Farmers Savings Bank opens first drive-up window August 8 1849 The new Black Rock meeting house was dedicated, August 9 1867 The Remington Corporation's global headquarters was created August 10 1930 A small sailboat capsized near the Harbor Lighthouse station with two boys on board. One of the boys couldn't swim and was held up by the other boy until Keeper McCoart arrived and saved both boys from the water. August 11 1896 Harvey Hubbell of Bridgeport, CT received a patent for the pull-chain, electric-light socket! August 12 1943 Actress Deborah Walley, who was Photoplays Most Popular Actress of 1961 (Gidget) is born. August 14 1901 Gustave Whitehead achieves first motorized flight. August 15 1887 The city signed its first street lighting contract at fifty cents a lamp. By 1890 there were 108 street lamps. August 16 1813 Future Civil War general William Henry Noble is born in Bridgeport. August 17 1876 The Soldiers and Sailor's Monument at Seaside park was dedicated. August 20 1824 General Lafayette visited the Borough of Bridgeport and stayed at Knapp's Hotel. August 23 1894 The first electric trolley was started over the Bridgeport tracks. August 24 1852 Major League Hall of Famer Jim O'Rourke is born. August 24 1861 Union Loyalists sack the offices of the pro-peace Bridgeport Weekly Farmer newspaper. August 25 1913 Walt Kelly, cartoonist, was born in Bridgeport. August 26 1950 Bridgeport loses in final of Little League World Series to Houston August 26 1968 Jimi Hendrix performs at Kennedy Stadium. August 28 1965 Fred Deluca founds his Subway chain in Bridgeport. August 29 1891 The Post Publishing Company was incorporated. The Post and The Telegram were published. August 29 1975 Bridgeport Fireman John S. Wilczynski died in line of duty September 1 1850 P.T. Barnum introduces to America the "Swedish Nightingale", Jenny Lind, the celebrated European soprano. September 1, 1850 Future Hall of Famer James Henry O’Rourke was born in Bridgeport September 4 1848 Louis Latimer, son of a former slave and a pioneer in the development of the electric light is born. September 5 1875 PT Barnum was elected mayor of Bridgeport. September 7 1825 PT Barnum's father dies leaving his mother with five children of whom Barnum at the age of fifteen was the oldest. September 14 1776 Edward Borroughs, of Bridgeport, dies in the Revolutionary War. September 15, 1885 PT Barnum's elephant, Jumbo dies after being struck by a freight train in St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada. September 19 2003 Nadine Domond is inducted into NE Basketball Hall of Fame September 21 1938 One of the worst hurricanes to ever hit Bridgeport does heavy damage to the Black Rock Yacht Club and the Pleasure Beach Pier. September 22 1904 When Jim O'Rourke took the field as catcher for the New York Giants, he set a still-unbroken record for oldest player ever to play in the National League September 23 1713 The Widow Hubbell was voted to be tavern keeper for this year. September 25 1917 The First Connecticut Ambulance Corps, known as "Bridgeport's Own" is ordered to the Western front of France during World War I. September 26 2003 Rayovac Corp. buys Bridgeport based Remington Products Co. September 27 2003 Fleetwood Mac plays at the Arena at Harbor Yard in Bridgeport September 28 1909 Cartoonist Al Capp is born. September 29 1777 Lt. Nathan Seeley, of Bridgeport, dies in the Revolutionary War. October 1 1897 Statue for Henry Bergh, founder of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and commisioned by PT Barnum is unveled at the entrance to Seaside Park. October 2 1882 Southern New England Telephone Company (SNET) was formed. October 3 1867 Elias Howe died. October 3 1836 Isaac Sherman Jr. elected first Mayor of Bridgeport. October 4 1948 The first Pogo strip appeared in the New York Star. October 5 1836 First meeting of the court of common council of Bridgeport was held at the high school. October 6 1866 Brothers Henry and James House, along with several passengers, drive their steam car six miles from Bridgeport to Stratford. October 7 1933 Bridgeport's Kiddo Davis and NY Giants win World Series. Kiddo bats .368 October 8 1936 The Hindenburg flew over Bridgeport. October 10 1927 Gustave Whitehead died. October 12, 1885 First horse-drawn cars put in service by Bridgeport and West Stratford Horse Railroad Company. October 15 1957 Cornelius “Neal” Ball , who had first unassisted triple play in the Major Leagues, dies and is buried in Bridgeport. October 16 1943 The US Navy accepted its first helicopter, a Sikorsky YR-4B (HNS-1), at Bridgeport, Connecticut, following a 60 minute acceptance test flight by Lieutenant Commander F. A. Erickson, US Coast Guard. October 17 1954 Piloting a Sikorsky XH-39, Warrant Officer Billy I. Wester, USA, established a world helicopter altitude record of 24,500 feet at Bridgeport, Conn. October 18 1918 The first issue of Bridgeport High “The Criterion” is published. October 22 1982 The movie, First Blood, starring Brian Dennehy opens in the US. October 20 1894 Holy Ghost Orthodox Church, 1540 East Main St., is founded. October 24 1908 Bridgeport's Locomobile becomes first Americam made car to win International Auto Race (Vanderbilt) October 25 1898 Nonpareil Cork Company factory damaged by fire - Driver of fire engine killed responding to alarm. October 28 1948 President Truman visited Bridgeport October 29 1923 Future Silent Screen Star Louise Brooks dances with a troupe at the Majestic Theatre. October 31 2001 The FBI announced indictment charges against Mayor Joseph Ganim November 1 1967 Bridgeport Mayor Hugh Curran leads dedication ceremonies, with Jasper's widow Vida McLevy as a guest, in which the old City Hall is renamed McLevy Hall. November 5 1979 Cartoonist Al Capp died. November 6 1960 John F. Kennedy visted Bridgeport, campaigning, two days before the presidential elections. November 7 1933 The Socialist Party of Bridgeport, Connecticut, won a stunning victory in the municipal election, garnering 48 percent of the votes cast in a three-way race and putting Jasper McLevy in the mayor's seat. November 8 1904 U.S. Patent #774,250 is issued to Harvey Hubbell of Bridgeport for the first detachable electric plug. November 9 1978 Bridgeport Fireman Nicolas Auriemma died in line of duty November 11 1986 Bridgeport Fire Lieutenant William M. Hathaway died in line of duty November 11 1914 Warner Brothers buys the patent for the brassiere. November 12 1865 The Bridgeport Brass Company was incoporated. November 13 1865 PT Barnum's New American Museum opens in Bridgeport. November 14 2003 Kiss and Aerosmith performs at the Harboryard Arena. November 15 1944 The movie, Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo, starring Robert Mitchuum opens in the US. November 17 1972 Walter Luckett appears on the cover of Sports Illustrated. November 19 1962 Jasper McLevy, who served as mayor for 24 years, dies. November 20, 1887 Nighttime blaze reduced most of the winter quarter of P.T. Barnum's circus. November 21, 1926 WICC begins broadcasting. November 22 1970 Elton John concert held at University of Bridgeport. November 23 2003 John Fabrizi sworn in as Mayor of Bridgeport. November 26, 1971 Bridgeport Police Lieutenant Harry Lattanzi died in line of duty November 29 1980 Bridgeport Patolman Gerald DiJoseph died in line of duty November 29 1945 Sikorsky test pilot Jimmy Viner and Capt. Jackson Beighle, AAF (acting as hoist operator) used a R-5 with a new hydraulic hoist to lift two men from a large barge breaking apart in a storm on Penfield Reef (off of Bridgeport, Conn). This effort, made in heavy rain and sixty mile per hour winds, marked the first use of a helicopter hoist to lift men from peril. December 2 2002 Bridgeport City Council adopts a resolution authorizing the Mayor of Bridgeport to execute an agreement between the City of Bridgeport and the Golden Hill Tribe of the Paugussett Indian Nation concerning Indian Gaming Casino. December 6 1982 Kurt Kepshire drafted by St. Louis Cardinals from the Cincinnati Reds in the Rule V draft. December 8 1842 P.T. Barnum announces the appearance of General Tom Thumb on his museum bills. December 12 1845 Midnight blaze in George Well's Oyster Saloon burned down half the downtown area. The downtown area moved up from the water to the present day Main Street as a result. December 17 1967 WEDW TV channel 49 in Bridgeport, CT (PBS) begins broadcasting. December 19 1859 Congregation B'nai Israel is chartered. December 20 1898 The First Connecticut Volunteer Artillery which was formed from men from the vicinity of Bridgeport, Connecticut, for the Spanish American War was mustered out of service ten days after the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war. December 21 1888 Future Major League Baseball player George Curry is born in Bridgeport. December 22 1892 James W. Beardsley, who donated 100 acres of land to the city for a park, comes to an untimely end. December 24 1842 People's Bank originally chartered as the Bridgeport Savings Bank, the institution accepts its first deposit of $24 from Helen Moore. Deposits at the end of the first week of business totaled $97. December 26 1933 Medal of Honor Winner John Mackenzie died. December 28 1963 Major League Baseball player Ray Keating died. December 29 1949 First US television station operating in the UHF spectrum begins regular services in Bridgeport, Connecticut. December 31 1991 Bridgeport Mayor Joseph P. Ganim negotiates around the clock with unions trying to keep the University of Bridgeport from closing. |
Last Remains of PT's Mansion
The last remains of Barnum's mansions
By Tony Spinelli Connecticut Post Staff Writer 03/02/2009
A drive along Clinton Avenue in Bridgeport reveals dozens of fine, large, old homes that in the 1800s were the not-so-humble abodes of some wealthy and substantial people. And the most splendid "show homes" of all those in the West End neighborhood were those owned by Bridgeport's most famous resident, Phineas Taylor Barnum. As one of the country's first 19th century self-made millionaires, P.T. Barnum built himself four magnificent homes in the city. "Barnum spared no expense on his homes, especially his first home, dubbed Iranistan [on the corner of Fairfield Avenue and Iranistan Avenue] with a total construction cost of more than $150,000 of 19th century money," said Alessandra Wood, collections manager for the Barnum Museum. According to measuring worth.com, $150,000 in 1847 dollars has the same "purchase power" as $4,047,048 in 2008 dollars. The homes were not only grand -- incorporating cut stone and fancy woodwork -- they also featured the leading technology of their day.
"You can imagine the amenities," Wood said. "Iranistan had gas lighting and indoor plumbing in 1847. He spared no expense and his homes were world-renowned. His stationery had pictures of Iranistan on it, and the legend has it that opera star Jenny Lind decided to tour with Barnum after seeing a picture of his home." Ironically, while these homes were among the finest in the city, little of them remain today, mostly in the form of gates and fences. Iranistan, completed in 1848, exists only in drawings and artists' models. Stone street markers still stand on State and Yale streets, denoting the location of Lindencroft, Barnum's second, smaller mansion, built in 1860 after a period of recovery from bankruptcy.
Parts of Waldemere -- a huge, gingerbread home facing Long Island Sound -- still exist but only because they were incorporated into other homes. A house on Rennell Street and Atlantic Avenue in the South End used part of a bedroom wing, and a Victorian home on the beach in Stratford's Lordship section came from the center parlor of Waldemere. It was floated out to Lordship on a barge more than a century ago. "Being here, you get a crazy feeling of Barnum's life and the things he did," said Katie Bowe, who has lived in the home for years. Her parents, the actors Nancy Marchand [of the "Lou Grant" TV series] fame and Paul Sparer, acquired the property in 1977. Now it is in her possession. "My parents loved Victorian things and decorated the house that way," she said. Stone and wrought iron gates, displaying a large letter "M," are all that remain standing of Marina, Barnum's fourth and last home in Bridgeport's South End. As for the decor, a chandelier is all that is left, and is in the collection of the Barnum Museum.
Other bits and pieces are said to surface now and then at antique sales. Barnum could have built his mansions anywhere, including New York City, where his Barnum's American Museum was famous for its curiosities like giants and bearded ladies. But he chose Bridgeport, according to Wood, because he was native to the state (he was born in Bethel in 1810), was once mayor of Bridgeport and because it was on the rail line between New York and Boston. "It was a way to have a lot of land, a grand estate, and still be accessible to New York City," Wood said. The palatial homes Barnum built for his family tell a lot about his personality, said Mary Witkowski, director of historical collections at the Bridgeport Public Library. "Barnum was someone, who early on immediately liked the things of the world, even the architecture he chose for his houses," Witkowski said. "His houses were among the finest." Barnum's Homes Iranistan, at Iranistan and Fairfield avenues. It took 500 carpenters and laborers to build it in 1847 and was completed in 1848. It was famous for its "onion" domes and architectural effects that suggest the Persian world. Barnum lived in it during the years his Barnum's American Museum in New York City was a phenomenon, and during the time he toured the United States with opera star Jenny Lind. Then came a period of fires at home (Iranistan burned down in 1857) and at work, bankruptcy and living in rented homes and apartments for several years, until he restored his solvency. Lindencroft, located 500 yards west of Iranistan, between Fairfield Avenue and State Street. Barnum lived in the stately, but not oversized home, from 1860 to 1869. It was sold to other parties through the years and no longer stands.
Barnum lived in this home near State and Yale streets during the period of the Civil War, which brought rioting and fires to New York City. Waldemere, on what is now called Marina Circle on the south side of the University of Bridgeport campus, adjacent to Seaside Park. The property originally extended from Atlantic Street. Barnum lived in the huge, ornate gingerbread home by Long Island Sound, from 1869 to 1888. It was in this splendid Victorian home that Barnum served as mayor of Bridgeport and began his years as a circus impresario. Marina, next door to Waldemere, on what is now Marina Circle at Iranistan and Waldemere avenues. This was Barnum's final home, from 1888 until his death in 1891. He built it to satisfy his new younger wife, Nancy, who wanted no part of Waldemere and its memories of Barnum's late wife, Charity. A simpler home than the others, but one that had every modern upgrade at the time, including electricity. Designed by the same Bridgeport architect, Marina resembled the Barnum Museum, although less ornate.
By Tony Spinelli Connecticut Post Staff Writer 03/02/2009
A drive along Clinton Avenue in Bridgeport reveals dozens of fine, large, old homes that in the 1800s were the not-so-humble abodes of some wealthy and substantial people. And the most splendid "show homes" of all those in the West End neighborhood were those owned by Bridgeport's most famous resident, Phineas Taylor Barnum. As one of the country's first 19th century self-made millionaires, P.T. Barnum built himself four magnificent homes in the city. "Barnum spared no expense on his homes, especially his first home, dubbed Iranistan [on the corner of Fairfield Avenue and Iranistan Avenue] with a total construction cost of more than $150,000 of 19th century money," said Alessandra Wood, collections manager for the Barnum Museum. According to measuring worth.com, $150,000 in 1847 dollars has the same "purchase power" as $4,047,048 in 2008 dollars. The homes were not only grand -- incorporating cut stone and fancy woodwork -- they also featured the leading technology of their day.
"You can imagine the amenities," Wood said. "Iranistan had gas lighting and indoor plumbing in 1847. He spared no expense and his homes were world-renowned. His stationery had pictures of Iranistan on it, and the legend has it that opera star Jenny Lind decided to tour with Barnum after seeing a picture of his home." Ironically, while these homes were among the finest in the city, little of them remain today, mostly in the form of gates and fences. Iranistan, completed in 1848, exists only in drawings and artists' models. Stone street markers still stand on State and Yale streets, denoting the location of Lindencroft, Barnum's second, smaller mansion, built in 1860 after a period of recovery from bankruptcy.
Parts of Waldemere -- a huge, gingerbread home facing Long Island Sound -- still exist but only because they were incorporated into other homes. A house on Rennell Street and Atlantic Avenue in the South End used part of a bedroom wing, and a Victorian home on the beach in Stratford's Lordship section came from the center parlor of Waldemere. It was floated out to Lordship on a barge more than a century ago. "Being here, you get a crazy feeling of Barnum's life and the things he did," said Katie Bowe, who has lived in the home for years. Her parents, the actors Nancy Marchand [of the "Lou Grant" TV series] fame and Paul Sparer, acquired the property in 1977. Now it is in her possession. "My parents loved Victorian things and decorated the house that way," she said. Stone and wrought iron gates, displaying a large letter "M," are all that remain standing of Marina, Barnum's fourth and last home in Bridgeport's South End. As for the decor, a chandelier is all that is left, and is in the collection of the Barnum Museum.
Other bits and pieces are said to surface now and then at antique sales. Barnum could have built his mansions anywhere, including New York City, where his Barnum's American Museum was famous for its curiosities like giants and bearded ladies. But he chose Bridgeport, according to Wood, because he was native to the state (he was born in Bethel in 1810), was once mayor of Bridgeport and because it was on the rail line between New York and Boston. "It was a way to have a lot of land, a grand estate, and still be accessible to New York City," Wood said. The palatial homes Barnum built for his family tell a lot about his personality, said Mary Witkowski, director of historical collections at the Bridgeport Public Library. "Barnum was someone, who early on immediately liked the things of the world, even the architecture he chose for his houses," Witkowski said. "His houses were among the finest." Barnum's Homes Iranistan, at Iranistan and Fairfield avenues. It took 500 carpenters and laborers to build it in 1847 and was completed in 1848. It was famous for its "onion" domes and architectural effects that suggest the Persian world. Barnum lived in it during the years his Barnum's American Museum in New York City was a phenomenon, and during the time he toured the United States with opera star Jenny Lind. Then came a period of fires at home (Iranistan burned down in 1857) and at work, bankruptcy and living in rented homes and apartments for several years, until he restored his solvency. Lindencroft, located 500 yards west of Iranistan, between Fairfield Avenue and State Street. Barnum lived in the stately, but not oversized home, from 1860 to 1869. It was sold to other parties through the years and no longer stands.
Barnum lived in this home near State and Yale streets during the period of the Civil War, which brought rioting and fires to New York City. Waldemere, on what is now called Marina Circle on the south side of the University of Bridgeport campus, adjacent to Seaside Park. The property originally extended from Atlantic Street. Barnum lived in the huge, ornate gingerbread home by Long Island Sound, from 1869 to 1888. It was in this splendid Victorian home that Barnum served as mayor of Bridgeport and began his years as a circus impresario. Marina, next door to Waldemere, on what is now Marina Circle at Iranistan and Waldemere avenues. This was Barnum's final home, from 1888 until his death in 1891. He built it to satisfy his new younger wife, Nancy, who wanted no part of Waldemere and its memories of Barnum's late wife, Charity. A simpler home than the others, but one that had every modern upgrade at the time, including electricity. Designed by the same Bridgeport architect, Marina resembled the Barnum Museum, although less ornate.
History Links
Maps
Bridgeport People
- Wikipedia List of Bridgeport People
- P.T. Barnum, Mayor of Bridgeport
- The Last Remains of P.T. Barnum's Masions
- When Barnum took Manhattan
- Richard Belzer - Actor, Comedian
- Albert Bender- and Men in Black
- Al Capp - Cartoonist
- Adriana Caselotti - Voice of Snow White
- John Curtis - Medal of Honor Winner
- Robert De Forest - Mayor
- Fred DeLuca - Subway Founder
- Brian Dennehy - Actor
- Alfred Fones - Dental Hygienist Pioneer
- William Hincks - Medal of Honor Winner
- William Hincks Article
- Henry Alonzo House - Inventor
- Maureen Howard - Writer
- Harvey Hubbell - Inventor, Industrialist
- Arline Judge- B-Movie Actress
- Walt Kelly - Cartoonist
- Edwin Herbert Land - Inventor
- Louis Latimer - Inventer
- John MacKenzie - Medal of Honor Winner
- John Mayer - Rock Star
- Bridgeport's Socialist Mayor - Jasper McLevy
- Chuck Mitchell - Actor
- Robert Mitchum - Movie Star
- Colonel Henry Mucci, WWII Hero
- Tony Musante - Actor
- Kevin Nealon - Actor, Comedian
- Roy Neuberger - Art Patron
- William Henry Noble - Civil War General
- Antonio Pappano - Il Maestro
- John Ratzenberger - Actor
- C.F. Ritchel, Inventor
- Samuel Simons - Congressman
- Kirk Taylor - Actor
- Bridgeport's Own : General Tom Thumb
- Rey Valentin - Actor
- Vinny Vincent - Rock Star
- Deborah Walley - Actress
- Michael Jai White - Actor
- Gustave Whitehead
Bridgeport Sports
- John Bagley - Pro Basketball Player
- Dave Bike
- Julius Boros - Professional Golfer
- Bridgeport's Baseball Hall of Famer
- Bridgeport's Lacrosse Hall of Famer
- Bridgeport's Soccer Hall of Famer
- Al Clinkscales
- George "Kiddo" Davis - World Series Hero
- First Unassisted Triple Play in Major Leagues
- Jai Alai Comes to Bridgeport
- Chet Gladchuck
- Jack Kvancz - Basketball Player
- Lou Saccone
- Tony Masone
- Walt Luckett
- Walt Luckett's Sports Illustrated Article
- Major League Baseball Players born in Bridgeport
- Wes Matthews - Pro Basketball Player
- NBA Basketball Players from Bridgeport
- James O'Rourke - Hall of Famer
- Charles Smith - Pro Basketball Player
- Porky Vieira - Basketball Player
- Vote - Best Shooter from Bridgeport
Bridgeport History
- Central's History
- Gee's Bend (Quilts and Plantations, Pettways and Bendolphs!!)
- Bridgeport Firsts
- Bridgeport Public Library Historical Collections
- Bridgeport's Hidden History
- Bridgeport on Wikipedia
- Bridgeport in 1911
- Bridgeport in 1935
- Bridgeport's Socialist New Deal
- Dates in Bridgeport History
- King Cole
- Pleasure Beach
- Steeplechase Island
- The Golden Hill Paugussett Tribe
- P.T. and Seaside Park
- General History of Bridgeport
- History of Bridgeport by Samuel Orcutt
- History of Bridgeport by George Waldo
- Bridgeport's Births and Deaths 1886-1896
- History of Fairfield County
- Connecticut's Heritage Gateway Articles on Bridgeport
- Connecticut History On-Line
- History of Black Rock
- Saving Tom Thumb's House
- Frisbie Pie Company
- 17th Connecticut Volunteer Civil War Infantry
- Bridgeport Genealogical Records
- Bridgeport Carpathian Genealogy Link
- History of Congregation B'nai Israel 1859-1984
Barnum Essay Winners
Barnum Essay Contest
2013 Winner - Jaymi Gooden
Winning Essay - Click Here
2012 Winner - Jeleeza Davis
Winning Essay - Click Here
2011 Winner - Brianna Eccleston
Winning Essay - Click Here
2010 Winner - Jennifer Le
Winning Essay - Click Here
2009 Winner - Barbara Ferrari
Winning Essay - Click Here
2008 Winner - Elizabeth Przybylinski
Winning Essay - Click Here
 |
In 1884, P.T. Barnum created a contest, giving an award to the two members of the Senior Class who wrote the best English orations.
|
Year
|
First Prize
|
Second Prize
|
1886
|
Verna Spinning
|
Helen Stillman
|
1887
|
Mary Turner
|
Alfred Palmer
|
1888
|
Kittie Middlebrook
|
Henrietta Wyrtzen
|
1889
|
Edith Palmer
|
Rose Walsh
|
1890
|
Jennie Tolles
|
Sarah O'Rourke
|
1891
|
Nettie Phillips
|
Carrie Turner
|
1892
|
Emma Roberts
|
Emilie Fenton
|
1893
|
Alexander Wheeler
|
Lillian Friswell
|
1894
|
Bertha Scott
|
Robert Gould
|
1895
|
Lewis Christie
|
Joseph Pullman
|
1896
|
Anna Donovan
|
James Turner
|
1897
|
Mary Christie
|
Evelyn Van Stone
|
1898
|
Clara Cornell
|
Willard Dean (tie)
|
1899
|
Harold Pinkerman
|
Maud Skidmore
|
1900
|
Laura Eales
|
Herbert Eales
|
1901
|
Grace Squires
|
Harry Porter
|
1902
|
Mary Bragg
|
James Cox
|
1903
|
Eva Dickinson
|
Edna Oldham
|
1904
|
Francis Sullivan
|
Alice Garvey
|
1905
|
Mary Welch
|
Mabel Halsey
|
1906
|
Philo Calhoun
|
Ruth Sanford
|
1907
|
Virginia Butler
|
Agnes Collins
|
1908
|
Charles Rohrback
|
Howard Curtis
|
1909
|
John Porter
|
James Meeker
|
1910
|
Henry Lee Irwin
|
Annie Laing
|
1911
|
Frank Linehan
|
Natalie Rosen
|
1951
|
Gene Matos
| |
1974
|
Mitzi Mandanici
| |
1979
|
Colleen McGrath
| |
1981
|
Ifigenia Kehayes
|
Robert Warren Jones
|
1985
|
Eileen McGrath
| |
1993
|
Monique Samuels
|
Sherene Mason
|
1996
|
Lisa Gonzalez
|
Vivian Lau
|
1997
|
Sylvia Gomes
|
Miriam Lau
|
1998
|
Rakia Hicks
|
Dashondra Brown
|
1999
|
Nicollette Richards
|
Len Taing
|
2000
|
Alrick Edwards
|
Peter Finch
|
2001
|
Kristin Lattin
|
Hao Nguyen
|
2002
|
Lajuana Milton
|
Adrian Green
|
2003
|
Lina Gomes
|
Nicolle Quintero
|
2004
|
Sol Melendez
|
Stephanie Rosoff
|
2005
|
Lesli-Ann Lewis
|
Shauna-Kaye F.Nicholson
|
2006
|
Dwayne Reeves
|
Brian Davis
|
2007
|
Melanie Rodriguez
|
Huy Ngu
|
2008
|
Elizabeth Przybylinski
|
Aldo Campo
|
2009
|
Barbara Ferrari
|
Faithlynn Morris
|
2010
|
Jennifer Le
|
Reina Santiago
|
2011
|
Brianna Eccleston
|
Andrea Adomako
|
2012
|
Jeleeza Davis
|
Danielle Wedderburn
|
2013
|
Jaymi Gooden
|
Eric Vilanova
|
2014
|
Rouskey Carpel
|
Jasmine Riodin
|
2013 Winner - Jaymi Gooden
Winning Essay - Click Here
2012 Winner - Jeleeza Davis
Winning Essay - Click Here
2011 Winner - Brianna Eccleston
Winning Essay - Click Here
2010 Winner - Jennifer Le
Winning Essay - Click Here
2009 Winner - Barbara Ferrari
Winning Essay - Click Here
2008 Winner - Elizabeth Przybylinski
Winning Essay - Click Here
 |  |
2007 Winner - Melanie Rodriguez
Winning Essay - Click Here
|
2006 Winner - Dwayne Reeves
Winning Essay - Click Here
|
2005 Winner
Lesli Ann Lewis
| 
2004 Winner
Sol Melendez
| 
2003 Winner
Lina Gomes
| 
2002 Winner
Lajuana Milton
|
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