Samuel Goodrich, writing under the name of Peter Parley, has this to say, “Litchfield Hill was in fact not only one of the most elevated features in the physical formation of the State, but one of the focal points of literature and enlightenment.” He goes on to tell of an incident in reference to Dr. Lyman Beecher, which speaks volumes for the common sense of the good old Doctor: One evening Dr. Beecher was returning home, having in his hand a volume of Rees’ Encyclopedia which he had just purchased from the book store. On his way he met a skunk and threw the book at him, upon which the animal retaliated with such effect that when the Doctor reached home he was in a very shocking plight. Sometime after, having been bitterly assailed and abused by an opponent, his friends advised him to reply. “No,” said the Doctor, “I once discharged a quarto at a skunk and I got the worst of it. I do not wish to try it again.” The witticisms of the town were proverbial, and did time permit to repeat, though often before repeated, would be enjoyable. To me the reply of Senator Tracy to Senator Randolph of Virginia has always seemed a nearly perfect specimen of wit. Senator Randolph hastily called Senator Tracy to the window of the Senate Chamber to see some of his “Connecticut Constituents.” Senator Tracy came to the window as a drove of mules was being driven by. Turning to Senator Randolph he said, “Oh yes, they are going down to Virginia to teach school.” There is also that delightfully witty repartee of the Senator which so gallantly described for all time the ladies of Litchfield. Mr. Lister, the then British Ambassador, who was thoroughly English in his ideas, said to General Tracy, “your countrywoman――Mrs. Wolcott――would be admired even at St. James.” “Sir,” retorted Senator Tracy, “she is admired even on Litchfield Hill.” My friends, I have mentioned only a few of the men whose character and attainments have contributed to the upbuilding of this town, of our state and of our nation. Not to forgetfulness of their worth but to lack of time must omissions be attributed. Many are the names among our forefathers that set an example of Godly living, loyalty and patriotism which never can be surpassed. May we and our descendants be as faithful when called to serve our God, our country and our town. * * * * * Transcriber’s Notes: ――Text in italics is enclosed by underscores (_italics_). ――Archaic and variable spelling has been preserved.