Salmon Brook Historical Society
The Loomis Bros. Store, Part Four
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Fifty years ago an iconic landmark, the Loomis Bros. Store in the center of Granby was torn down and with it a piece of the town’s sense of place and history disappeared.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Our highways and byways evolved with the times
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Last month, I described how, as a result if the flood of 1955, Granby became an island when the bridges and roads on Routes 9, 189, 20, and 10 were washed out or badly damaged, so that no one could get in or out of Granby. Our town green was literally an island as it is surrounded by Routes 10, 20 and 189 (formerly known as Route 9). Here is a brief history of roads through picturesque Granby.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Granby Oak II thrives thanks to historical society foresight
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This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Salmon Brook Historical Society (SBHS), and one of the least known, but most enduring, symbols of that legacy is thriving quietly on the SBHS Main Campus at 208 Salmon Brook Street. Known informally as Granby Oak II, this majestic tree was grown from an acorn gathered in 1980 or 1981 by longtime SBHS board member Dave Laun.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
SBHS paves way to brighter future
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As the Salmon Brook Historical Society prepares to celebrate 80 years of preserving Granby’s history in 2025, it proudly reflects on the progress it has made—and the strong foundation it continues to build for the future.
History
Flood of 1955 remembered
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Seventy years ago, the state of Connecticut and the town of Granby experienced the worst flood in its history.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Country’s oratorical history chronicled in Trumpets of Glory
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Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our nation. At the Salmon Brook Historical Society, a notable book in our library from our 200th anniversary in 1976 continues to offer insight into the early history of our republic. Trumpets of Glory, written by Henry Hawken, focuses on July 4th speeches and orations delivered between 1786 and 1861.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Historic National Guard coat donated to New York State Military Museum
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Textile volunteers at the Salmon Brook Historical Society happened across a blue wool military coat last year. The coat appeared to be from the Civil War era. A detailed search of our records found no information about this coat, but a handwritten signature was discovered inside its left sleeve. In flourishing cursive, it states “C. A. Coffin, Co. A.”
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Yearbooks—and businesses through the year
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In the final days of the school year, students at Granby Memorial High School receive their yearbooks and flip through the pages filled with memories, signatures and well wishes. It is a beloved tradition that has endured for generations.
History
An American soldier remembered
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I recently found a small book, The American Soldier’s Creed, in my grandfather’s papers. My grandfather, Elmer C. Vreeland, proudly served in WWI and the creed (reprinted in this article) depicts the ideals for which his generation was fighting.
Salmon Brook Historical Society
Frank Kearns’ Legacy
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Tucked away off Canton Road lies an abandoned elementary school— named the Frank Kearns School. Though the building now stands empty and may soon be replaced by new development, the legacy of the man behind the name should not be lost to time. Frank Kearns, a dedicated public servant and visionary, made lasting contributions to education and agriculture in Granby. His story deserves to be told.