230th Anniversary Commemoration Of The Burning Of Norwalk

From a press release:

CELEBRATE THE PAST ANNOUNCES

REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO JOIN SPONSORS OF

230TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION OF THE BURNING OF NORWALK

For Immediate Release

Celebrate the Past announces the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency has joined sponsorship of the planned Anniversary Commemoration events marking the 230th anniversary of the Battle and Burning of Norwalk.

celebrate-the-past-press-photonew-2The Battle took place July 11-12, 1779. 2,500 British Troops invaded Norwalk along the coast, confronted by the 800 member Norwalk militia over the course of a two-day battle. During the course of the battle, nearly every building in the city center was burned.

Celebrate the Past Co-Chairman Peter Bondi welcomed the support from the Redevelopment Agency. “The Battle of Norwalk celebrates the extraordinary courage and pride of the City’s Revolutionary War Militia. It is among the most significant events in our City’s history, and we appreciate the support of the Redevelopment Agency,” stated Mr. Bondi.

Timothy Sheehan, Executive Director of the Norwalk Redevelopment Agency stated, “It is important to support the celebration of Norwalk’s grand historical past and the Redevelopment Agency sponsorship of this particular event is especially appropriate as it can be said that Norwalk’s first great redevelopment effort was undertaken following the British invasion on July 11, 1779. As the City undertakes significant redevelopment plans, we hope to replicate the proud tradition and resolve of our precursors.”

Mayor Richard A. Moccia commended the Redevelopment Agency and other event sponsors, stating, “The Commemoration events planned for the weekend of July 11 appropriately re-enact the lessons of a brave citizens determined not to allow the dramatic forces of war to deter their effort to build a community of high standards for their families and neighbors. The examples of courage, pride, and resolve are as important today as they were 230 years ago. I encourage all Norwalk citizens to take the opportunity to join in the commemoration events.”

On July 11 and 12 the historic battle will be commemorated. Battle scenarios will recreate the British invasion of Norwalk with a simulated burning of the town, which will be re-enacted on Saturday July 11. Sunday July 12 will include re-enactment of the historic “Battle of the Rocks” in which the Norwalk militia took on the mighty British invaders. Activities will include historic military demonstration of infantry, artillery, cavalry and camp life. There will be demonstrations of 18th century medical practices and espionage techniques. An 18th century style church service will be held Sunday July 12.

Introduction to the weekend activities will take place July 10 at the Mill Hill Meeting House at which the Norwalk Historical Society will portray the town “Committee of Safety Meeting” that occurred on July 10, 1779 at which the impending British invasion was contemplated.

Commemoration events will take place at Taylor Farm. All events are free. More information may be found at www.celebratethepastinc.com.

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  • Red Coat

    Now if only the Brits had burnned down 93 East Aveune, we wouldn’t have to here all this bull! Anyone see me musket?

  • history buff

    This is great. And its FREE! Kids will love it, and pyromaniacs too. We’ll be there with all our friends…

  • Anon

    This looks like fun. Let’s hope the rain is over and done with by then.

  • Old Timer

    Not going to be able to attend. Anybody know if the presentation on the story of the battle(s) and the burning is recorded so it may be available on DVD ? From what I have read, the Ekarts have done great research and found a lot of information.
    General Israel Putnam, who played a major role in the revolution, and had an INN in Norwalk named after him, settled in what is now Brooklyn, CT. There is a large statue of him on the village green.
    There is also a plaque commerorating the conviction of Prudence Crandall for the “crime” of teaching black students.

  • Secondhand Rose

    Yes, Old Timer, and there is also a reenactment every year in Greenwich that commemorates Putnam’s escape from the British. The reenactors who are hosting this year’s events are the ones who do that reenactment as well. I can put you in touch with them if you’re interested in more information about the General Putnam reenactment.

    And people should also take the time to visit Putnam Park in Redding and tour their great little museum which has all sorts of artifacts from the winter camp of the Continental soldiers there.