The Burning of Norwalk (1779) British troops led by General William Tryon invaded and burned most of Norwalk on July 11–12, 1779, destroying over 130 homes and dozens of buildings. This raid galvanized support for the war and was later used by George Washington to rally Patriot forces. 

Nathan Hale Monuments – Freese Park & Fodor Farm American hero Nathan Hale departed from Norwalk on his final spy mission in 1776. Two monuments in town honor his sacrifice and connection to our city. 

Battle of the Rocks Fought on July 12, 1779, this fierce engagement near France Street saw Patriots defending Norwalk from a major British offensive. The DAR monument marks where these brave citizens made their stand. 

Brookside Cemetery Established in 1723, this cemetery is the final resting place of many early settlers and Revolutionary War patriots, including descendants of Norwalk’s founding families. 

Attack on Flax Hill Patriots held strategic ground on Flax Hill during the 1779 invasion. Their efforts helped delay the British and protect key parts of the city. 

Revolutionary Cannonball Site – Hillside Place A British cannonball lodged in a hillside remains as a symbol of resistance. A modern monument now commemorates the Norwalkers who defended the spot against overwhelming forces.

Keeler Bridge Skirmish A surprise Loyalist attack at Rowayton’s Keeler Bridge resulted in one death and multiple acts of bravery by local defenders. The rock where sentries stood still remains today.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Captain Robert Sheffield escaped a British prison ship in 1778, later lending his name to Sheffield Island. His story is one of survival and patriotism amid the war’s harshest realities. 

The Guest House at Norwalk Inn This historic house survived the burning of Norwalk and was defended fiercely during the British invasion. It later became home to prominent local families. 

Norwalk Green & St. Paul’s Cemetery Once used for cattle grazing, the Green and nearby cemeteries house the graves of Revolutionary soldiers and reflect the deep roots of colonial life in Norwalk. 

Rowayton’s Raymond & Webb Houses Homes like the Elias Raymond, Moses Webb, and Gershom Raymond houses tell stories of patriot service and family legacy during the Revolution. Some still hold cannonballs or were gifts from patriots to their children. 

Hoyt-Bouton Cemetery This burial ground marks the final resting place of Captain Esaisas Bouton, a Loyalist who covertly aided the British. His story illustrates Norwalk’s divided loyalties during the war.