With growth of business in another part of the town, the star of her prosperity set, but only to rise again with increased splendor. Jeremiads from her ruins. Old farm houses burst from the chrysalis into towered mansions. Separated from Weatogue by the loveliest of drives through the fragrant pines is Bushy Hill. A bushy hill no longer.
Bushy hill is honored by the association of distinguished names.
Anson G. Phelps the successful man of business and philanthropist, and John J. Phelps, the merchant prince. His son the eminent statesman and diplomat, William Walter Phelps, spent here many days of his childhood and youth. About two miles north of Weatogue is the central village, which takes the township name, Simsbury. It is built along a terrace, between the wooded bluff and the river meadows. Entering from the Bushy hill or Farms road, you will pass the old Mill which still grinds the grists, and takes the toll, as in days of yore.