Trout Brook Tales

Chuck Coursey

Exploring people, places and events throughout West Hartford's rich history. 

  1. The Life & Legacy of Bristow with Dr. Booker DeVaughn

    3D AGO

    The Life & Legacy of Bristow with Dr. Booker DeVaughn

    In this episode of Trout Brook Tales, we sit down with Dr. Booker DeVaughn for a powerful conversation about Bristow, a remarkable figure in West Hartford's history. Born in Africa in 1731, Bristow was enslaved by the Hooker family before purchasing his freedom in 1775 and becoming a respected agricultural expert and community member. Dr. DeVaughn has dedicated over four decades to bringing Bristow's story to life, a commitment that led to the 2005 naming of Bristow Middle School.

    55 min
  2. West Hartford in World War I - The Heroic Lives of Francis Velhage and Waldo Hayes

    JAN 19

    West Hartford in World War I - The Heroic Lives of Francis Velhage and Waldo Hayes

    World War One transformed American communities in profound and lasting ways, and West Hartford was no exception.    In this episode of Trout Brook Tales, host Chuck Coursey and special guest Kathryn Coursey (Chuck's niece and fellow history enthusiast) explore the heroic yet tragically brief lives of two young West Hartford soldiers—Waldo Hayes and Francis Velhage.    Their courage and sacrifice would be memorialized in 1922 with the establishment of West Hartford’s Hayes-Velhage Post 96 of The American Legion, forever linking their names to the town's history.

    1h 13m
  3. From Talcott Elementary to the Cabbage Patch Craze: How Coleco Turned a West Hartford School into Toy History

    12/22/2025

    From Talcott Elementary to the Cabbage Patch Craze: How Coleco Turned a West Hartford School into Toy History

    In the 1980s, Cabbage Patch Kids weren't just a toy—they were a cultural phenomenon that sparked shopping frenzies, made headlines, and became one of the most sought-after gifts in American history. But few people know that the epicenter of this craze was right here in West Hartford. Join West Hartford Town Historian Mary Donohue and me as we explore the fascinating story of Coleco, the toy company that transformed the former Talcott Elementary School into its bustling headquarters. We'll uncover how a West Hartford company became the manufacturer behind America's hottest toy and relive the wild days when parents lined up for hours—sometimes even fought—to get their hands on a Cabbage Patch Kid. Discover how West Hartford played a starring role in one of the greatest toy success stories of all time.

    37 min
  4. The Life & Times of Inez Temple (1880-1945)

    08/02/2025

    The Life & Times of Inez Temple (1880-1945)

    Join West Hartford Public Library Local Historian Brett Freiburger and I as we discuss the life of Arnoldale Road resident Inez Temple, visionary designer and producer of pageants, dedicated teacher, world traveler, accomplished artist, historic preservationist and published author.

    46 min

  5. 05/18/2025

    West Hartford Immigrant Teens share their Experiences

    West Hartford immigrant teens and Hall High School students Ana Veriienko and Yimin Wu share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs as they navigate the journey from their homelands to a new life in the United States.

    50 min

  6. 04/06/2025

    The History of AC Petersen Farms Restaurant & Andrew Christian Petersen

    Andrew C. Petersen left his home in Denmark for better opportunities in America.  He began peddling milk on the streets of Hartford in 1913 and over the next 60 years built one of the most popular businesses in Greater Hartford.

    52 min

  7. 12/06/2024

    The Stacks to Nowhere & West Hartford's Unbuilt Interstate 291 Highway

    As modern interstate highways were being built throughout the United States in the 1950s, 60s & 70s, plans were made for a beltway around the City of Hartford, with a significant portion traveling through West Hartford's two reservoirs.  Town Historian Tracey Wilson joins us to discuss the proposal and how it was defeated.

    40 min

  8. 11/22/2024

    The History of Elizabeth Park

    When Charles Pond died in 1894, he left his 90 acre "Gentleman's Farm" to the City of Hartford for the purpose of providing a new public park for the city's growing population.  His will stipulated that the park was to be named for his beloved wife, Elizabeth.  Today's episode will look at the lives of Charles and Elizabeth Pond and the rich history of Elizabeth Park.

    56 min
See All (13)

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Exploring people, places and events throughout West Hartford's rich history. 

Information

  • Creator
    Chuck Coursey
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Chuck Coursey
  • Show Website
    Trout Brook Tales