The Capstone Kid (1 of 2)
Welcome back, Monroe history lovers. Back in June 2025, The Monroe Historical Society received an email from a soon-to-be senior at Masuk High School named Liam Whalen. As part of the requirement to graduate, he must complete a capstone project during his senior year, which consists of an internship in the career field that he intends to study in college. Liam’s plan is to major in History with a minor in Political Science. Since his inquiry, he and I have met regularly at the Edith Wheeler Memorial Library, where I have shared my knowledge of our town’s history, as well as my process and numerous tools with him. Liam was an inspired and exemplary student who took every task seriously. He was often given homework and never failed to deliver throughout. The culmination of this project was Liam researching, compiling, writing, and editing two Monroe historical biographies. I enjoyed our time together and I’m proud to present the first of his two biographies here today. Great job, Liam. You have a very bright future, indeed. I think I may well have found my replacement!
Regards,
Kevin Daly
Historian, Monroe Historical Society
www.monroecthistory.org
Our Past is Always Present
Today’s history takes us back to the 1800s as we look at the life and legacy of Dr. Edward McEwen Beardsley (pictured in the first image), a respected physician, public servant, and longtime member of the Monroe community. Dr. Beardsley attended and graduated from Yale Medical School in New Haven and later served in the Connecticut State Legislature as a Republican. He was also a member of the Committee on Foreign Relations from 1879 to 1880.
Born on March 5, 1823, in Danbury, Connecticut, Edward McEwen Beardsley was raised by his father, Samuel Birdsey Beardsley, and his mother, Abigail (McEwen) Beardsley. His father was a graduate of Yale’s Class of 1815 and devoted more than 47 years of his life to teaching, much of it in Monroe. Growing up in a household that highly valued education, discipline, and service, Edward was exposed early on to the importance of learning and civic responsibility. These values would shape the course of his life and career.
Beardsley pursued higher education at Yale, eventually enrolling in Yale Medical School. He graduated with the Class of 1845, joining the ranks of formally trained physicians during a period when medicine was becoming more professionalized in the United States. His medical education equipped him to serve communities at a time when access to healthcare was limited, and physicians often played multiple roles as caregivers, advisors, and public figures. After completing his studies, Dr. Beardsley returned to Fairfield County, where he established himself as a respected doctor.
On April 22, 1855, Edward married Elizabeth A. Gray. Together they raised a large family of seven children: Samuel Birdsey Beardsley, Edward Gray Beardsley, Charles McEwen Beardsley, Sarah Abigail Beardsley (who later became Sarah Sinclair), Louis Benedict Beardsley, Elizabeth Adeline Beardsley (later Sears), and Mary Lucinda Beardsley (later Ryde). The Beardsley household reflected the values of the time, holding strong family ties, faith, and commitment to community. Census records from 1880 show Dr. Beardsley living in Monroe with his family, illustrating his deep roots in the town.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Beardsley was actively involved in public service. As a Republican, he served in the Connecticut State Legislature, where he contributed to political life during the post-Civil War era. His role on the Committee on Foreign Relations from 1879 to 1880 placed him in discussions concerning Connecticut’s relationship with national and international issues, demonstrating the trust placed in him by his peers. Balancing medicine and politics was no small task, yet Beardsley managed both with distinction.
Faith was also an important part of Dr. Beardsley’s life. He attended the Monroe Congregational Church, which played a central role in the town’s social and spiritual life during the 19th century. The church was more than a place of worship at the time. It was a gathering place for civic discussion, mutual support, and shared values. Beardsley’s involvement in the church further reflects his dedication to Monroe and its residents.
Dr. Beardsley lived at 354 Moose Hill Road in Monroe (pictured in image #2), a property that became closely associated with his name and legacy. His lasting impact on the town is perhaps best symbolized by Beardsley Hall, which was named in his honor. The Beardsley Baseball Complex in town is also named for him, standing just north of his property. This recognition speaks to the respect he earned through decades of service as a physician, legislator, and community leader.
Edward McEwen Beardsley passed away on March 11, 1905, at the age of 82, from paralytic shock. His death was recorded in the Yale Obituary Record (shown in image #3), a testament to the significance of his life and career. Today, he is remembered not only through historical documents and memorials, but also through the institutions and places that continue to bear his name.
Dr. Beardsley’s life exemplifies the ideals of 19th-century civic leadership: dedication to education, commitment to public service, devotion to family, and faith in community. His contributions helped shape Monroe’s history, leaving a legacy that continues to be remembered more than a century later.
Stay Curious,
Liam Whalen
