George Mann Olcott

Biography

George Mann Olcott, born 1835, lived through much of Ridgefield's transformation and used his experience to mentor apprentices and volunteers. He took pride in the town's milling traditions and supported the creation of new schools so that children could build on the work of their parents.

Even in advanced years he could be found encouraging the rhythm of the seasons, advising the younger generation to respect both innovation and the wisdom of the earth. Ridgefield remembers him as a generous teacher whose steady hand guided many projects.