Now that we have received this recognition for the Cement Kiln, the AWHS will start looking for ways to stabilize the structure before it “all falls down.” Built about 1876, it is still a major landmark in town as a rare example of 19th century industry and intrigue. In the AWHS collection we have a scan from a postcard circa 1910. The kiln is not in nearly as good condition now! The right side is mostly destroyed, and trees have grown all around and on what remains.
For a recently published newspaper article that mentions the Cement Kiln, written by Woodbridge resident Nancy Polk, please visit the CT Bulletin:
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Woodbridge Matters: Life and Death on Litchfield Turnpike
One of the cement kilns on Litchfield Turnpike in Woodbridge. (Photo by Nancy Polk)
WOODBRIDGE — {excerpt}... Life on Litchfield is rarely dull. ...Off the road deep in the woods, Litchfield Turnpike has a second cement kiln, owned by the Town of Woodbridge. One on the corner of Litchfield and Dillon lies in ruins surrounded by fencing and is listed on the National Register. A second kiln so deep into the woods it is virtually inaccessible, is in fine condition. It is barely visible from the Turnpike. It is massive and dark with many hand cut stones and a brick vault in perfect condition, evidence of a nineteenth century scam. Many Woodbridge investors lost money. The concept was simple, toss local rock into the large stone furnace and wait until it melts. Then out comes fine cement. In this case the local bedrock proved unusable and produced an inferior product. Speculation is that the first batch was hauled into New Haven and dumped into the harbor more than 100 years ago. ...
