Sterling

STERLING Originally part of the long narrow area called Voluntown, this northern section separated and obtained town privileges from the Connecticut General Assembly on the second Thursday of May, 1794. The name given was that of a temporary resident, Dr. John Sterling, who had promised the Town a library in return for the honor. Dr. Sterling failed to make good his promise, but a library was obtained by soliciting private donations. The first town meeting was held on June 9, 1794 at the home of Robert Dixon on Sterling Hill. The first post office was established as Sterling on October 1, 1809, the name later being changed to Sterling Hill. The American Manufacturing Company, also known as Potter's Factory, was the first cotton mill in Sterling. It was situated on the Quandock River about the year 1800, followed by the Sterling Manufacturing Company on the Moosup River in 1808. (Continued on other side)