Samuel Russell

Samuel Russell was born on 4 November 1660 in Hadley, Massachusetts. He was the second son of Rev. John Russell and Rebecca Newberry Russell. Russell pursued higher education at Harvard College, graduating in 1681. Following his graduation, he was ordained as a clergyman while he was teaching in Hadley, Massachusetts.

On 12 September 1687, Russell was elected as the pastor of the church in Branford, Connecticut. He served in this position for the remainder of his life. Russell was involved in the founding of Yale University; the group of founders is documented to have met in his study in Branford. During these meetings, the founders contributed books toward the establishment of the university.

The residence associated with Samuel Russell in Branford is significant for its historical connection to Yale University. The doors of the Samuel Russell house are preserved and are located in the 1742 Room of the Sterling Memorial Library at Yale University.

There are no further details provided regarding his later life, death, or other activities. Samuel Russell died on 24 June 1731.