There are many opinions and many versions of Griswold family history. The following is a brief summary of two brothers who came together to Connecticut and are most often connected to GEORGE GRISWOLD and the Griswold family in America.

EDWARD GRISWOLD is known to have come to America from Warwickshire, England in 1639, and settled that year in Windsor, Hartford, CT. In 1649, he move to Poquonock, a few miles north of Windsor. Then, in 1663 he relocated to Hammanasset, CT, later called Kenilworth when the name was changed in 1667. That change made in Hartford court, was likely suggested by EDWARD GRISWOLD in honor of his birthplace in England.

Matthew Griswold is known to have immigrated to Windsor at the same time as EDWARD GRISWOLD. He moved to Saybrook or Lyme, CT, in 1646. Matthew was a major landowner in the Saybrook and Lyme area, active in the Saybrook church and community affairs. His descendants include:

        Matthew Griswold - 17th Governor of Connecticut
        Roger Griswold - 22th Governor of Connecticut
        John Augustus Griswold - New York politician, industrialist