Hidden History of Meriden

Meriden, Connecticut was once known as the "Silver Capital of the World" for its prominent silver manufacturing. By 1867, the city was part of a manufacturing boom that produced everything from ivory combs, buttons, tinware, and cutlery to coffee grinders and organs. In 1944, the business of manufacturing in the city would find the War Manpower Commission naming Meriden "The Nation's Ideal War Community," for its industrial and patriotic contributions during World War II. While many of those traditional manufacturers have closed, the city still plays host to several world-recognized establishments, especially in the fields of culinary arts and medicine. From baseball legend Connie Mack to the invention of the steamed cheeseburger, local author Justin Piccirillo reveals some of the lesser known but fascinating history of this vibrant community.

Author Justin Piccirillo has spent a career in education. After graduating from Southern Connecticut State University, Piccirillo began a long tenure as a public school art educator. While illustrating a children's book about Meriden's Hubbard Park, Piccirillo became passionate about the city's past and has since penned numerous writings on Meriden history. These include the books Hubbard Park (Images of America series) and Art and Artisans of Meriden, both by Arcadia Publishing, as well as several articles for many regional newspapers and magazines. Today, Piccirillo continues to teach while taking an active role within the Meriden Historical Society and other Meriden-based organizations.