Norwalk Historical Society To Host Annual Independence Day Celebration

Information via the Norwalk Historical Society

NORWALK, CT — The Norwalk Historical Society's annual Independence Day Celebration and Bell Ringing Ceremony takes place at Mill Hill Historic Park on Tuesday, July 4, at 11 a.m.

According to a news release provided by the historical society, this exciting program includes a plaque dedication commemoration the 50th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's historic visit to Norwalk sponsored by the William C. Pomeroy Foundation, the "Let Freedom Ring" Bell Ringing Ceremony and an illustrated slide lecture, "The Intolerable Acts: The 'Gong Show' of British/American Colonial Policy," by Norwalk Historical Society board member and Norwalk Historical Commissioner Eric Chandler.

Light refreshments to follow. This event is free and open to the public.

Mill Hill Historic Park is located at 2 East Wall Street in Norwalk. Handicapped and limited mobility parking on site. General parking at the Family Center/HSC, 1 Park Street. Paid on-street parking and parking lots available on East Wall Street and Wall Street.

At 11 a.m., join the dedication of the Marquis de Lafayette plaque commemorating the 50th anniversary of his historic visit to Norwalk. Immediately following, the annual "Let Freedom Ring" Bell Ringing Ceremony will begin.

The Town House bell will toll 13 times to commemorate the founding of the original 13 colonies. Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling and State Senator Bob Duff will take part in the ceremony.

Selected sections of the Declaration of Independence will be read by Norwalk's Town Clerk, Rick McQuaid. The National Anthem will be performed by students of Norwalk's Crystal Theater.

Next will be the illustrated slide lecture, "The Intolerable Acts: The 'Gong Show' of British/American Colonial Policy" by Norwalk Historical Society board member and Norwalk Historical Commissioner, Eric Chandler. Learn how King George III helped set into motion a series of blunders that drove the 13 colonies to declare independence from England.

Our award-winning exhibition, "Norwalk's Changing Communities: 13,000 BC – 1835," will be on view. Light refreshments served.

More information is available at www.norwalkhistoricalsociety.org.