Battle of Norwalk

The Battle of Norwalk, a significant yet often overlooked event in the American Revolutionary War, is a tale of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Taking place on July 11, 1779, in the quaint town of Norwalk, Connecticut, this battle was part of a series of British raids known as Tryon's Raid. The battle left a lasting mark on the town, shaping its history and heritage.

The Prelude to Battle

In the summer of 1779, the American Revolutionary War was in full swing. The British, under the command of Major General William Tryon, had embarked on a campaign to disrupt colonial resistance and draw American forces away from the strategic Hudson Valley. Tryon's raid targeted several coastal towns in Connecticut, including New Haven and Fairfield, before setting its sights on Norwalk.

On July 9, 1779, Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons of the Continental Army was stationed in Redding, Connecticut. Sent by Commander-in-Chief George Washington, Parsons was tasked with assessing the situation and organizing the local militia in anticipation of British attacks. With intelligence indicating Norwalk as the next target, Parsons urgently appealed to Brigadier General John Glover to bring reinforcements from New London.

The British Advance

On July 10, 1779, at 2:00 PM, the British fleet, including the flagship HMS Camilla and HMS Hussar, departed from Huntington Bay, New York, and crossed Long Island Sound towards Norwalk. By 5:00 PM, the fleet anchored near the Norwalk Islands, and troops began rowing ashore. The Hussar entered the Norwalk River to cover the landing and destroy any colonial shipping in the area.

The British forces, consisting of the 54th (West Norfolk) Regiment of Foot, the Landgraf Regiment, and the Jaegers—Hessian mercenary volunteers—landed at Fitch's Point and encamped for the night. Fanning's Regiment of Loyalists joined them at 3:00 AM. As dawn approached, the British troops began their march towards the center of Norwalk, facing little resistance initially.

The Battle Unfolds

The first significant clash occurred at Grumman Hill, where Captain Stephen Betts and fifty Continental troops, along with a few militiamen, attempted to halt the British advance. Despite their valiant efforts, the British forces overwhelmed them, forcing the colonists to retreat.

Meanwhile, General Thomas Garth landed his troops at Old Well (modern-day South Norwalk) around 7:00 AM. As they marched inland, they encountered fierce resistance from Nathaniel Raymond and fourteen other local irregulars at Flax Hill. Despite losing a light cannon to the rebels, Garth's forces pressed on, harassed by militia and citizens from the bluffs above.

The two British columns converged at Mill Hill, near the town green, and proceeded north to the area known as the Rocks. Here, they faced heavy resistance from the Norwalk militia and Continental troops. The battle intensified as both sides fought fiercely amidst the rocky terrain.

The Aftermath

In a bid to flush out the entrenched colonists, General Tryon ordered the burning of houses in East Norwalk that provided cover for the militia. General Garth followed suit along West Avenue. By the end of the day, the British had set ablaze a total of eighty houses, two churches, eighty-seven barns, seventeen shops, and four mills. The estimated losses amounted to over 26,000 British pounds.

Despite the destruction, the spirit of Norwalk's defenders remained unbroken. The battle, though a tactical victory for the British, did little to break the resolve of the American patriots. George Washington, in his report to the Continental Congress, described Norwalk as having been destroyed, but the town's resilience and determination to rebuild became a symbol of the broader struggle for independence.

Visiting the Historic Sites

Today, visitors to Norwalk can explore the sites that played a crucial role in this historic battle. Start your journey at Fitch's Point, where the British troops first landed. A metal tablet mounted on a wayside stone by the Norwalk Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) marks this significant location.

Follow the path of the British advance to Grumman Hill, where Captain Stephen Betts and his men made their stand. Imagine the intensity of the skirmish as you walk the grounds where these brave soldiers fought to defend their town.

Head to Mill Hill Historic Park, the convergence point of the two British columns. This area, once a battleground, now offers a peaceful setting for reflection. The park is home to several historic buildings, including the Governor Fitch Law Office and the Town House, providing a glimpse into Norwalk's past.

End your tour at the Norwalk River, where the British crossed to reach the Rocks. This area witnessed some of the fiercest fighting, and the surrounding landscape still echoes the bravery and determination of those who fought here.

Commemorating the Battle

The Battle of Norwalk is commemorated with various monuments and markers throughout the town. These memorials serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the American patriots in their quest for liberty. The resilience and courage displayed during this battle continue to inspire residents and visitors alike.

As you explore Norwalk, take a moment to reflect on the events of July 11, 1779. The Battle of Norwalk is not just a chapter in history; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that stood firm in the face of adversity. This historic town, with its rich heritage and vibrant present, offers a unique window into the past and a reminder of the values that shaped a nation.