The town was first settled around 1700 or earlier. Muddy Brook, a small stream near the Danbury line, is mentioned in a 1697 probate record.

When overcrowding at Danbury's First Congregational Church forced the forming of a separate parish to the south in 1759, the new community named itself Bethel, meaning "House of God" in Hebrew.

Although settlement began before the 1700s, the town was not incorporated until its separation from Danbury in 1855.

One of the Bethel's most noted sons is Phineas Taylor Barnum, who was born in Bethel in 1810. A small area. known as "P.T. Barnum Square," boosted an enormous bronze fountain donated by the "greatest showman on earth," until the Doughboy Statue replaced it.

Other interesting places of note in Bethel include the Bethel Farmer's, Market, the Bethel Firefighters Museum, Plumtrees Schouse, and the Sycamore Drive-In.

Alive with an active retail community, Bethel draws residents and tourists alike to its recently rejuvenated village center.

Light industrial development dots Bethel, and includes The Berkshire Corporate Park and the Francis J. Clarke Industrial Park. This controlled commercial and industrial growth help Bethel keep its Victorian feel. Historical buildings and homes are faithful- ly maintained to help Bethel preserve its link to the past.

Meanwhile, Bethel's Chamber of Commerce works hard to help move the town into the future. By sponsoring pro- grams beneficial to small businesses and the community, such as networking oppor- tunities, educational programs, events like Bethel Blooms, Holiday Tree Lighting and its beautification programs, the Chamber sup- ports all of Bethel.

Bethel is alive with activity all year round. Municipal and Park & Rec. programs con- tribute to the community's well being, as well as its excellent schools, thriving busi- nesses and beautiful scenery.