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The Colonial Village In Connecticut That Was Terrorized By Frogs
One night in 1754, the residents of Windham thought the world might be coming to an end, but soon found out otherwise
During colonial times, American settlers faced dangers around every corner. From Native Americans fighting against them to protect their land and resources, to illness and starvation, life was rarely easy. Occasionally, the bizarre became a threat, which included a night in 1754 when a small Connecticut town was beset with an ungodly commotion that was so loud, unexpected and terrifying that it sent residents fleeing from their homes. When order was finally restored it was discovered that it had been nothing to fear after all and was instead caused by a large number of frogs fighting each other.
In modern times, images and items associated with frogs are a common sight in Windham, Connecticut. This includes their town seal, which has incorporated a frog. Why is this community of around 25,000 so obsessed with amphibians? It’s because they are an integral part of the town legacy, dating back almost 270 years.
One June night in 1754, just before midnight, most residents of the town were asleep. Unfortunately, their slumber was not to last, as suddenly an immense number of sharp cries erupted…