Son Of Norwich: 'Mischievous, Reckless' & Duplicitous Traitor Benedict

NORWICH, CT — On the Walk Norwich Trails site description it's noted that one should either make the Arnold Family Homestead the first, or last, stop as it's not near other sites on the walk through Norwich history.

The Rose City has a number of famous daughters and sons, but this son is infamous. Benedict Arnold, a military leader in the Revolutionary War, committed treason when he conspired to cede the fortifications at West Point to the British in 1780.

Arnold was born Jan. 14, 1741 in the house on the corner of Washington Street and Arnold Place. His great-grandfather was governor of Rhode Island. His father, Capt. Benedict Arnold, came from Rhode Island to seek his fortune in Norwich.

On the 40-minute, two mile, Benedict Arnold Walking Trail, tour-goers can expect a fascinating history lesson.

"Discover the story of a controversial and complicated man who greatly impacted our nation’s history during the Revolutionary War," it's explained. "The tour gives a glimpse into Benedict Arnold’s complex childhood and discusses prominent Norwich figures that played a role in the Revolutionary War."

Growing up in Norwich, the young Benedict had a reputation, according to the history provided by Walk Norwich Trails:

Benedict Arnold was a mischievous ringleader; Arnold and his friends stole tar barrels from the landing to add to the traditional Thanksgiving Bonfire on Bean Hill, but when confronted by the constable, Arnold threw off his coat and dared the constable to fight. When Norwich celebrated the colony’s victory over the French, Arnold haphazardly lit a cannon and jumped out of the line of fire moments before the canon ignited. Arnold and his friends climbed Meeting House Rocks and played a game similar to an Indian raid. Arnold was “bold, ambitious, active as lighting,” and a ready wit at command.” Noted for his athletic prowess, Arnold impressed his friends with reckless antics such as riding the waterwheel on a gristmill as it rotated. Arnold swam in the pools beneath Uncas Leap was a bit of a show-off as he ice-skated on the frozen ponds during the winter. Some records indicate he participated in the French and Indian War and deserted the army, but these claims are disputed. Revolutionary War veterans told stories of Arnold torturing small animals to prove he was evil since childhood and discredit his military accomplishments.

Learn more about Norwich's most infamous son, and all about Norwich history, by visiting the Norwich Historical Society's Walk Norwich Trails website here.