House Republican Press Release

March 31, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Gov. Rell, Rep. Hamzy: Bond Commission Okays $350,000 for Restoration of Terryville Water Wheel

The state Bond Commission has approved a $350,000 grant that will help pay for the restoration of the historic waterwheel and generator off Route 6 in Terryville, Governor M. Jodi Rell and state Representative William A. Hamzy, R-78^th District, said today.

The Bond Commission approved the funding at its monthly meeting today (Friday, March 31^st).

“The Eli Terry water wheel has historic significance for both the town and the state,” Governor Rell said. “Connecticut was on the cutting edge of the industrial revolution in the 19^th Century and factories like Eli Terry’s were a major part of it. Many of them were established along our state’s waterways and used water wheels to provide the power they needed to manufacture their products. This will help preserve a unique part of our state’s industrial heritage. I am pleased to support it.”  

“During the 19^th Century, Eli Terry’s clock factory was one of Plymouth’s biggest employers,” Representative Hamzy said. “The water wheel and the generator that provided power to it are now all that remains of this pioneering industry. This funding will help the town restore an important link with Terryville’s past and spruce up an area along Route 6 that has been neglected over the years and fallen into disrepair. I’d like to thank Governor Rell and the Bond Commission for supporting this grant.”