Turner, Aaron (1790-1854), born in Ridgebury, was an American circus pioneer; by 1820, his son, Napoleon, age 7, was a trick rider in NYC circus; by 1828, Turner had his own circus, in 1836, hired P.T. Barnum as his ticket seller, secretary, treasurer, and eventually, partner; retired from the circus world and operated Danbury hotel, called Turner House.
From Jack Sanders, Who Was Who in Ridgefield.
Our collaborative community history project has received national recognition for bringing long-overlooked voices into Ridgefield’s historical record and expanding how local history is preserved, shared, and understood.
This year’s scholarship honors a student whose academic achievement and community involvement reflect the values at the heart of local history work.
This new book shares LGBTQIA+ experiences of Ridgefield through personal stories gathered during our community oral history project, preserving voices and perspectives that will broaden the understanding of the town’s
A hands-on volunteer group is helping preserve the beauty and character of the outdoor spaces that surround some of Ridgefield’s most distinctive historic and architectural landmarks.