Among Wallingford's residents who have been prominent in public affairs of community and of commonwealth is William Joseph Bridgett, who has twice been elected to represent his district in the state legislature and who is now serving as county auditor for a term of two years.
     He was born in Morristown, New Jersey, March 12, 1878, a son of Patrick and Anastasia (Bergen) Bridgett, both of whom are natives of County Kilkenny, Ireland. They came to America about 1875 and the father followed the occupation of farming, establishing his home in New Haven county in 1881. He has since engaged in general agricultural pursuits, his place being located on North Colony street in Wallingford.
     Spending his youthful days under the parental roof, William J. Bridgett attended the Colony Street school and was employed in a factory in Wallingford until he reached the age of nineteen years, when he opened the restaurant which he still conducts, his business being located at No. 29 Hall avenue. That he has prospered in this undertaking is indicated by the fact that he has so long continued in a given line of activity. He is also interested in another business enterprise, being secretary and treasurer of the Walling-ford Auto Company.
     In community affairs Mr. Bridgett has taken a most active interest, being a stanch supporter of the democratic party. For six years he was a valued member of the board of relief. In 1913 and again in 1915 he was chosen to represent Wallingford in the state legislature and during the first session was made a member of the excise committee, while in 1915 he was made a member of the committees on the sale of lands and unfinished busi-ness. In the latter year he was appointed county auditor of New Haven county for a two years' term and is now making an excellent record in that position. He has been prompt and efficient in the discharge of his official duties, making an excellent record as an incumbent in public office by reason of the fact that he is loyal to the interests entrusted to his care.
     Mr. Bridgett holds membership in the Holy Trinity church and he is identified with the Knights of Columbus. He also belongs to other fraternal organizations, including the Foresters, the Hibernians and the Elks. He was but three years of age when his parents removed from New Jersey to Connecticut and he has since been a resident of Wallingford, where he has a very wide acquaintance, his many friends speaking of him in terms of high regard.