In 1787, Southbury was granted a town charter. Southbury, ideally positioned on the highways to provide hospitality to travelers was also a good choice for passage and stops on the expanding railroad system. With the coming of 19th century, several new villages sprang up throughout the town to support the industries growing alongside the rivers and the streams. By the nation’s centennial, a new group Eastern European immigrants settled in Southbury. With growing diversity Southbury returned to it’s agricultural roots. In a new century Southbury once again benefited from advancing technologies. Residents of cities were attracted by convenient access to weekend recreation and the comforts of country living.