In Memory
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January 2026 - In Memory of Frank Hayden Frank Hayden dedicated six years of service to the Naugatuck Historical Society, sharing his time, talents, and quiet commitment to preserving the community's history. After retiring and seeking meaningful ways to give back, Frank found a natural fit with the Society, where his lifelong love of history and his desire to stay connected came together. As a Board member and an active volunteer, Frank contributed thoughtfully to the care of the museum and to the planning of exhibits and programs. His work on the Facilities Committee, including his careful photographic documentation of the Tuttle House, helped support the ongoing stewardship of the building. He also shared his love of model trains, generously contributing pieces from his personal collection to the Society’s 2024 Victorian Christmas display. Frank approached his volunteer work with humility, warmth, and a genuine love for the Society’s mission. His quiet manner and steady presence made him a valued colleague and a reassuring partner in the work of preserving Naugatuck’s stories. We are deeply grateful for the time Frank shared with us and for the care he brought to everything he did. His contributions, kindness, and dedication will be remembered with appreciation and respect. In keeping with the wishes shared by Frank’s family, those who would like to honor his memory may do so through a memorial gift to the Naugatuck Historical Society.
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September 2026 - It is with sadness that the Naugatuck Historical Society remembers Bridget Mariano, a longtime volunteer, board member, and former President of the Society. For many years, Bridget gave her time, knowledge, and talents to the Historical Society and to preserving the stories of Naugatuck and the people who called it home. Her many contributions included conducting oral histories with local factory workers, researching and writing about our community, contributing to Society publications, and sharing Naugatuck’s history through programs and presentations. She also worked alongside Town Historian Sandra Clark to write the Naugatuck chapter of Martin Podskoch’s The Connecticut 169 Club. These are only a few examples of the many ways Bridget contributed to the Society over the years. Much of her work reflected something that remains at the heart of our mission today. Making sure the stories of our community are preserved, remembered, and passed along. We are grateful for all that Bridget gave to the Naugatuck Historical Society, and for the history she helped preserve for future generations. Bridget will remain an important part of the Society’s own history. Our thoughts are with Bridget’s family, friends, and all those who had the opportunity to know and work alongside her. In accordance with her family’s wishes, memorial donations may be made to the Howard Whittemore Memorial Library. Photo (2019): On the left is Town Historian Sandra Clark. On the right is Bridget Mariano.
