Town Historian

Effective May 30, 2025

In 1987, the State of Connecticut established the position of municipal historian through Public Act 87-278, introduced by Senator Thomas “Tim” Upson of Waterbury. Under Section 7-148 of the Connecticut General Statutes, all 169 municipalities were granted the authority to appoint a town historian to help preserve and interpret their unique local history.

Middlebury’s first official historian was Bradford E. “Brad” Smith, who served from 1987 until 2001. In October 2001, Dr. Robert L. “Bob” Rafford was appointed as his successor by the Board of Selectmen.

As Middlebury’s municipal historian, Bob is actively involved in researching, documenting, preserving, and sharing the stories, people, places, and traditions that shape the town’s identity. He is also available to assist with historical questions from residents, students, and researchers.

Dr. Rafford has written more than 100 articles for the Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer and is a regular contributor to Middlebury Neighbors magazine. Many of his articles are available online or in the archives of the Middlebury Historical Society.

For questions about Middlebury’s history, you may contact Bob directly at 203-206-4717
or by email at president@middleburyhistoricalsociety.org.