Norwich, Connecticut, is a small city in New London County with a population of around 40,000 as of the 2020 census. Situated at the confluence of the Yantic, Shetucket, and Thames rivers, it’s known as “The Rose of New England” for its scenic beauty and historical charm. Founded in 1659 by settlers from Saybrook, Norwich has a rich history tied to colonial America, the Industrial Revolution, and its role as a regional hub.
Norwich, Connecticut, often called the "Rose of New England" due to
its rolling hills and scenic beauty, is a historic city nestled where
the Yantic, Shetucket, and Thames Rivers converge. Founded in 1659, it
boasts a rich industrial past that shaped its economy and attracted
diverse communities, while today it offers a blend of cultural, natural,
and historical attractions. With its proximity to larger draws like the
Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos, Norwich serves as a quieter hub for
exploring eastern Connecticut's charm, including vibrant arts scenes,
outdoor recreation, and hidden gems that reflect its Revolutionary War
ties and 19th-century mill heritage.
One of the standout cultural
sights is the Slater Memorial Museum, located on the campus of the
Norwich Free Academy. This museum features an engaging narrative
starting with a video about its founder, William Slater, and his family,
showcasing artifacts from Norwich's founding era in 1659 alongside
exhibits on local crafts at the adjacent Joseph Carpenter Silversmith
Shop (built in 1772). Visitors can explore rooms filled with plaster
casts of classical sculptures, African art collections, and rotating
displays in the Converse Art Gallery, which hosts six temporary
exhibitions annually, including the Connecticut Artists Juried
Exhibition. The museum also highlights Slater's round-the-world voyage
from 1894-95, providing a fascinating glimpse into global influences on
local history. Nearby, the Norwich Arts Center adds to the creative vibe
with its focus on contemporary works and community events, making it a
hub for local artists and performers.
For nature enthusiasts,
Mohegan Park stands out as the city's largest green space, spanning
acres of woodlands with extensive biking, hiking, and walking trails
that wind through forested hills and around a picturesque pond with a
beachfront area. It's equipped with picnic pavilions, tables, and spots
for relaxation, ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful escape.
The park's trails offer scenic views of Connecticut's countryside, and
it's a popular spot for birdwatching or simply enjoying the rolling
terrain that earned Norwich its floral nickname. Just a short drive
away, Yantic Falls provides a dramatic natural spectacle where the
Yantic River cascades over rocks, creating a misty rainbow effect when
sunlight hits at the right angle— a mesmerizing sight that's especially
photogenic in the late afternoon.
Another outdoor gem is Howard
T. Brown Memorial Park in the Norwich Harbor District, situated at the
romantic confluence of the Yantic and Shetucket Rivers at the head of
the Thames. This waterfront park offers serene views, walking paths, and
is a prime location for boating or fishing at the adjacent marina, which
hosts the annual July 4th Extravaganza with one of Connecticut's largest
fireworks displays.
History buffs will appreciate Norwichtown, a
preserved colonial district featuring the Norwichtown Green and its
historic cemetery, one of Connecticut's oldest burial grounds dating to
1715. The cemetery is the resting place of Revolutionary War veterans,
including Samuel Huntington, a signer of the Declaration of
Independence, and offers a tranquil walk among weathered headstones that
tell stories of early American life. For a deeper dive into the macabre,
the Yantic Cemetery is home to the legend of the Blue Lady, a ghostly
figure said to haunt the grounds, adding an eerie layer to its already
atmospheric setting. Nearby, the Leffingwell House Museum preserves
colonial-era artifacts and architecture, while the area's silversmith
shop demonstrates 18th-century craftsmanship.
For unique and
offbeat experiences, Atlas Obscura highlights spots like the Monument to
Miantonomo, honoring a Native American leader, or a backyard garden
filled with artistic lifesize dinosaur sculptures that's free to visit.
The graves of the Raymond family in a nearby cemetery are tied to
19th-century vampire folklore, where locals believed the family was
cursed by the undead, leading to exhumations—a chilling piece of local
lore. Underground tunnels beneath an abandoned mental asylum just
outside town offer urban exploration opportunities, though access may be
restricted.
Wellness seekers shouldn't miss The Spa at Norwich
Inn, a luxurious retreat surrounded by gardens and often ranked among
Connecticut's best spas by publications like Connecticut Magazine. It
provides a world-class escape with treatments inspired by its historic
setting, close to other attractions like nearby vineyards offering
panoramic views of the countryside for up to 20 miles.
Beyond
these, Norwich's harbor area invites strolls with boat views and a mix
of history, while seasonal events like the Connecticut Renaissance Faire
in nearby Lebanon add medieval flair. The city's craft beer scene, live
entertainment, and proximity to Mystic Seaport (about 20 minutes away)
make it a versatile base for broader explorations. Whether hiking
trails, delving into folklore, or unwinding at a spa, Norwich delivers
an in-depth tapestry of experiences rooted in its enduring New England
spirit.
By Car
Driving is the most flexible option, especially for local
travel within New England. Norwich sits at the junction of several key
routes:
From the north or south: Take Interstate 395 (I-395),
which runs directly through Norwich.
From the west (e.g., Hartford or
New Haven): Use Connecticut Route 2 (CT-2), a multi-lane freeway that
leads straight into Norwich.
From the east (e.g., Rhode Island):
Approach via I-95 north to CT-2 or other local routes.
Travel times:
About 1 hour from Hartford, 2 hours from Boston, or 2.5 hours from New
York City (traffic-dependent). Use apps like Google Maps, MapQuest, or
Waze for real-time directions and traffic updates. Free parking is
available at spots like the Norwich Transportation Center for day use.
By Plane
Norwich doesn't have its own commercial airport, but
several nearby options serve it well. From the airport, you'll need to
rent a car, take a taxi/Uber/Lyft (about 45-60 minutes drive), or
connect via bus/train.
Closest major airports:
Rhode Island
T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) in Providence, RI: ~36-44 miles
away, with flights from major U.S. carriers. Drive via I-95 south.
Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Windsor Locks, CT: ~40-50 miles
away, New England's second-largest airport with international flights.
Drive via I-91 south to CT-2 east.
Smaller regional options:
Westerly State Airport (WST) ~21 miles away (limited flights) or
Groton-New London Airport (GON) ~15 miles away (mostly general aviation,
no major commercial service anymore). Check sites like Kayak or the
airport websites for flights.
By Train
There's no direct
Amtrak station in Norwich, but service is available nearby with local
connections. Proposals exist to restore passenger rail directly to
Norwich via the New England Central Railroad, but it's not active yet.
Take Amtrak (Northeast Regional or Acela) to New London Union
Station (NLC), about 15 miles south of Norwich. From there:
Taxi/Uber: ~20-30 minutes.
Bus: Southeast Area Transit (SEAT) Route 1
or 108 to Norwich (runs frequently, ~30-45 minutes).
Example
fares: From New York Penn Station to New London start at ~$19, with
multiple daily trains. Book via Amtrak.com for schedules. For inland
routes (e.g., from Hartford), use the Amtrak Hartford Line to New Haven,
then transfer to New London.
By Bus
Public bus service is
reliable for regional travel, centered at the Norwich Transportation
Center (a main hub with free parking and ticket office).
Local/Regional: SEAT operates routes connecting Norwich to New London,
Groton, Mystic, and other nearby towns. It also links to Windham Region
Transit District (to Willimantic) and Northeastern Connecticut Transit
District (to Putnam). Fares are low (~$2 per ride); check seatbus.com
for schedules.
Intercity: Greyhound or Peter Pan buses often go to
New London or Hartford, then transfer to SEAT. For example, from NYC,
take a bus to New London (~3-4 hours), then SEAT to Norwich. Use
Rome2Rio.com for combined routes. Public transit in Norwich is generally
safe and straightforward, though less frequent than in big cities.
For your shopping needs in Norwich, head to the Norwichtown Commons, an outdoor retail center situated at 42-44 Town Street. This expansive 168,000 square foot plaza is anchored by the popular Stop & Shop supermarket and includes a variety of stores such as Dollar Tree and Dress Barn, making it a convenient one-stop destination for groceries, clothing, and everyday essentials. You can reach them at +1 860-887-0793 for store hours or inquiries.
Savor authentic New York-style brick oven pizza along with a range of
classic Italian fare at La Stella Pizzeria, found at 1 Market Street.
This cozy spot has garnered praise for its thin-crust pies, with recent
reviews highlighting the delicious pepperoni and onion options cooked to
perfection, earning a solid 7.2 from Barstool Pizza Reviews for its
tasty yet slightly greasy profile. Call +1 860 887-5574 to place an
order or reserve a table.
Indulge in hearty meals at Manny's Pizza
Plus, located at 724 Boswell Avenue, where you can enjoy pizza,
grinders, seafood platters, pasta dishes, and more—all at
budget-friendly prices with generous portions that keep locals coming
back. The menu features homemade dough, sauces, and specialties like
roast beef and chili, with daily specials and a welcoming atmosphere
perfect for families or quick lunches. Contact them at +1 860 886-4212
for takeout or dine-in details.
A beloved local gem, Vocatura Bakery
offers authentic Italian deli sandwiches, fresh-baked breads, pizzas,
and pastries from its spot at 695 Boswell Avenue (with another location
on the east side). Known for its quality meats, cookies, and heritage
flour-based goods, it's a go-to for grinders and custom orders in a
clean, friendly environment—open Tuesday through Saturday. Give them a
ring at +1 860 887-2220 to check availability.
For Chinese cuisine,
try Infinity Palace at 77 Salem Turnpike Suite 115, featuring an
all-you-can-eat buffet with dishes like honey chicken, dumplings, and
shumai in a spacious setting. While reviews are mixed on ambiance, it's
a solid choice for takeout or casual dining, open daily from 11 a.m. to
10 p.m. Reach out at +1 860 886-8388 for menu specials.
Experience
all-American classics at Prime 82, positioned at 181 West Town Street,
where hand-cut steaks are the star alongside fresh seafood, chops, and a
selection of microbrews and wines. Voted best steak by Norwich Magazine,
this rustic steakhouse provides a relaxed vibe with huge portions and
expert preparation. Dial +1 860 949-8893 for reservations.
Discover
top-tier sushi and Japanese dishes at Mahzu Sushi Bar & Restaurant, at
624 West Main Street in the Shop Rite plaza. Renowned for its fresh
rolls, sashimi, and all-you-can-eat specials, it offers a serene
ambiance with unique creations like spicy tuna with mango and jalapeno.
Contact +1 860 889-8288 to book or inquire about gluten-free options.
Unwind at Billy Wilson's Ageing Still, a charming pub at 57 Broadway
offering fine spirits, pub grub, and a laid-back mix of dive bar and
sports vibes with daily happy hours and lunch specials. It's a community
favorite for watching games or late-night gatherings, open daily for
lunch. Call +1 860 887-8733 for event info.
Enjoy the authentic
Irish pub experience at Harp and Dragon, located at 130 Main Street
Suite A, complete with hearty food, appetizers, a full bar stocked with
beers on tap, and a casual rooftop for drinks and dinner. It's ideal for
a friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating and private events. Reach
them at +1 860 885-0147.
Rest comfortably at the Courtyard by Marriott Norwich, at 181 West
Town Street, featuring modern rooms with mini-fridges, microwaves, and
Keurig machines, plus amenities like a heated indoor pool, 24-hour
fitness center, and flexible meeting spaces. Conveniently near I-395 and
casinos. Phone +1 860 886-2600 or fax +1 860 889-2001.
Stay at
the Holiday Inn Norwich, situated at 10 Laura Boulevard, with inviting
rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, fitness center, and
complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions like Mohegan Sun
Casino. It includes on-site dining and a cozy lobby fireplace. Contact
+1 860 889-5201 for bookings.
Relax at the Comfort Suites Near
Casinos, located at 275 Otrobando Avenue, offering spacious suites with
refrigerators and microwaves, along with premium amenities such as an
indoor heated pool, sauna, fitness center, game room, and free
breakfast. Shuttle service to casinos is available for added
convenience.
Pre-Colonial and Founding Period
The land that would become
Norwich, Connecticut, was originally inhabited by the Mohegan Tribe, who
served as stewards of the region. In 1659, Mohegan Sachem Uncas gifted
or sold a nine-square-mile tract of land to settlers from the Saybrook
Colony, marking the formal founding of Norwich. This purchase was led by
prominent figures including Major John Mason, Reverend James Fitch, and
Lieutenant Francis Griswold, with Thomas Leffingwell noted for his role
in rescuing Uncas from the Narragansett tribe, which helped secure the
deal. The initial settlement centered on what is now the Norwichtown
neighborhood, where 69 founding families divided the land for farms and
businesses around Norwichtown Green. A wharf was established at Yantic
Cove in 1668, and by 1694, a public landing was built at the head of the
Thames River in the Chelsea neighborhood to ease trade and shipping. Key
historical sites from this era include Uncas Leap (a waterfall
associated with Mohegan legends), the Mohegan Burial Ground, and the
Miantonomo Monument, which highlight the indigenous contributions to the
city's origins. The Leffingwell Inn, established by Thomas Leffingwell's
son, also stands as a preserved colonial structure.
Colonial
Period and Growth
Throughout the 18th century, Norwich evolved from
an agricultural hub into one of the largest and most influential cities
in the American colonies, becoming a center of wealth, commerce, and
political activity. The original "Nine Mile Square" territory remained
intact until 1786, when religious societies led to the formation of new
towns, with areas like the Long Society merging into nearby Preston.
While Norwichtown remained primarily agricultural, economic activity
shifted toward the harbor and rivers, with industrial mills beginning to
emerge along the Yantic, Shetucket, and Quinebaug Rivers by the late
1700s. This period also saw the development of a diverse community,
including a significant African American presence; Norwich has a rich,
often overlooked history of Black residents, with figures like David
Ruggles—a native who participated in the Underground Railroad—and
neighborhoods like the National Register Historic District of Jail Hill
serving as key centers for African American life.
American
Revolution
Norwich played a pivotal role in the lead-up to and during
the American Revolution. The Stamp Act of 1765 encouraged local
merchants to pursue self-sufficiency, fostering the growth of mills and
factories at river falls. Ship captains from Norwich and nearby New
London evaded British taxation and later contributed to the war effort
by outrunning imperial warships. The city became a hub for the Sons of
Liberty and provided soldiers, ships, munitions, and provisions to the
Continental Army. Notable figures included Christopher Leffingwell, a
wealthy merchant who provisioned the army; Samuel Huntington, a signer
of the Declaration of Independence, President of the Continental
Congress under the Articles of Confederation, and later Governor of
Connecticut; and Benedict Arnold, born in Norwich in 1741, who served as
a talented commander under George Washington until his infamous
defection in 1779. Norwich's water power and strategic location also
supported early gun manufacturing during the war, laying the groundwork
for future industries.
19th Century Industrial Era
By the
early 19th century, the economic center had shifted to the Chelsea
neighborhood (now downtown Norwich), with official buildings like city
hall, courts, and the post office relocating there. Direct trade with
England flourished until colonial restrictions, after which steamship
services connected Norwich to New York and Boston. The city became a
major manufacturing hub, producing textiles, armaments, and specialty
items, boosted by the Civil War's demand for goods. Mills such as the
massive Ponemah Mill in Taftville attracted immigrant workers,
contributing to neighborhoods like Greeneville and Taftville.
Infrastructure advancements included the Norwich and Worcester Railroad
(completed 1837), which moved goods and people efficiently, and the
Springfield and New London Railroad in the 1870s. Electric trolleys
began operating in 1892, linking Norwich to nearby towns like New London
and Willimantic. Linguistically, Norwich contributed to American
English, with the first attested use of "Hello" appearing in The Norwich
Courier in 1826.
20th Century and Modern Developments
The 20th
century brought consolidation of the town and city governments in 1952,
streamlining administration amid ongoing industrial shifts. While mills
like Ponemah continued operations, the city adapted to economic changes,
transitioning from heavy industry toward a more diversified economy.
Today, Norwich is the largest city in Eastern Connecticut with over
40,000 residents, preserving its diverse heritage through sites like the
Norwichtown Historic District, colonial homes from the 1700s, and
industrial remnants. Its history reflects broader American themes of
indigenous displacement, colonial expansion, revolutionary fervor,
industrial innovation, and cultural diversity, with ongoing efforts to
highlight underrepresented stories, such as those of African American
and immigrant communities.
Norwich is a city located in New London County, in the southeastern
portion of Connecticut, United States. It lies in the Southeastern
Connecticut Planning Region and serves as a regional hub. The city's
geographic coordinates are approximately 41°33′01″N 72°05′15″W. Norwich
covers a total area of about 29.41 square miles (76.16 km²), of which
28.06 square miles (72.68 km²) is land and 1.34 square miles (3.48 km²)
is water, accounting for roughly 4.56% of its total area. The city is
situated at an elevation of around 56 feet (17 meters) above sea level,
making it relatively low-lying compared to more inland parts of the
state.
Historically, Norwich was founded in 1659 by settlers from
Saybrook, and its geography has shaped its development from an
agricultural inland settlement to an industrial harbor city. The terrain
is characterized by rolling hills and river valleys, which presented
both opportunities for early milling and challenges for transportation
and urban expansion.
One of the defining geographical features of Norwich is its position
at the confluence of three major rivers: the Yantic River, the Shetucket
River, and the Quinebaug River. These rivers merge to form the head of
the Thames River, which flows southward approximately 15 miles to Long
Island Sound. This river system creates a natural harbor in the city's
Chelsea neighborhood, which historically supported shipping, trade, and
industrial activities, including textile mills powered by waterfalls
along the rivers. The presence of these waterways has also influenced
flooding risks, with the rivers occasionally swelling due to heavy rains
or snowmelt.
In addition to the rivers, Norwich features several
ponds and smaller water bodies. Notable among them are those in Mohegan
Park, including Spaulding Pond (held by an earthworks dam) and a smaller
Skating Pond that serves as a flood overflow. These water features
contribute to the city's recreational opportunities and ecological
diversity.
The topography of Norwich is varied and picturesque, often described
as hilly and challenging, with elevations rising from the river valleys
to forested uplands. The landscape includes a mix of urban areas along
the rivers and more rural, wooded sections inland. Key neighborhoods
reflect this geography: Norwichtown in the higher, agricultural uplands;
Yantic and Taftville along river falls; and Chelsea at the harbor.
Natural features are prominent in areas like Mohegan Park, a large
wooded expanse offering hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, a beach,
and a renowned rose garden. The park's forests provide habitat for local
wildlife and serve as a green lung for the city. Overall, the terrain
transitions from riverine lowlands to modest hills, contributing to
scenic views and outdoor activities, though it can complicate
infrastructure like roads and utilities.
Norwich experiences a humid continental climate, typical of southern
New England, with four distinct seasons and moderate precipitation
throughout the year. Average high temperatures range from 37.7°F (3.2°C)
in January to 84.1°F (28.9°C) in July, while lows vary from 21.2°F
(−6.0°C) in winter to 64.8°F (18.2°C) in summer. Extreme temperatures
have reached as high as 102°F (39°C) and as low as −21°F (−29°C).
Annual precipitation averages 52.18 inches (1,325 mm), distributed
fairly evenly but peaking at around 5.09 inches (129 mm) in March. The
city sees about 120.2 days with measurable precipitation each year.
Snowfall totals approximately 27.8 inches (71 cm) annually, mostly from
December to March, with an average of 11.3 snowy days. Proximity to Long
Island Sound moderates temperatures slightly, reducing extremes compared
to more inland areas, but the river valleys can enhance humidity and
fog.
This combination of rivers, hills, and temperate climate has
made Norwich a historically vibrant area, often called the "Rose of New
England" for its natural beauty.
Norwich’s economy has evolved from its industrial heyday but retains
a mix of sectors:
Historical Industries: While textile and
manufacturing dominance faded by the mid-20th century, remnants like the
Ponemah Mill (now lofts) highlight this legacy. The city was once called
the “Firearms Capital of the World” due to companies like Norwich Arms.
Modern Economy: Today, Norwich’s economy is driven by healthcare,
education, and retail. Backus Hospital is a major employer, alongside
Norwich Free Academy, a historic private school with public status. The
Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort Casinos, located nearby, boost regional
tourism and employment.
Challenges: Like many post-industrial cities,
Norwich faces economic challenges, including a poverty rate above the
state average (around 14% vs. Connecticut’s 10%). Redevelopment efforts
focus on revitalizing downtown and attracting small businesses.
Commercial Hub: Downtown Norwich features a mix of historic buildings,
restaurants, and shops, with recent investments in arts and
entertainment venues. The city serves as a commercial center for
surrounding rural towns.
Norwich’s culture blends New England tradition with diverse
influences:
Historic Sites: The city is home to the Leffingwell
House Museum (a Revolutionary War-era inn), the Slater Memorial Museum
(with American art and artifacts), and the Norwich Heritage and Regional
Visitors’ Center, which highlights Mohegan and colonial history.
Festivals and Events: Annual events include the Rose Arts Festival,
celebrating local music and art, and the Norwich Winter Festival, with
ice skating and holiday markets. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade draws
crowds, reflecting the city’s Irish heritage.
Diversity: Norwich’s
population is more diverse than many Connecticut towns, with significant
Hispanic (around 15%), African American (10%), and Asian (5%)
communities. This diversity is evident in local cuisine, from Italian
bakeries to Puerto Rican restaurants.
Arts and Education: The Norwich
Free Academy, founded in 1854, is a cultural and educational
cornerstone, offering a museum and theater alongside its academic
programs. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and
public murals downtown.
Neighborhoods: Norwich is divided into neighborhoods like Downtown,
Norwichtown (the historic colonial core), and Laurel Hill. Each has
distinct character, from urban vibrancy to quiet, tree-lined streets.
Transportation: The city is accessible via Interstate 395 and Route 2,
with Amtrak and bus services nearby in New London. However, public
transit within Norwich is limited, and most residents rely on cars.
Recreation: Mohegan Park features a rose garden, lake, and playgrounds,
while the Thames River offers kayaking and fishing. Nearby state parks
like Bluff Point and Fort Griswold provide hiking and historical
exploration.
Education: Beyond Norwich Free Academy, the city has
public schools like Three Rivers Community College, which serves as a
regional hub for technical and continuing education.
Challenges and
Opportunities: Norwich struggles with urban issues like crime (higher
than the state average) and aging infrastructure. However, recent
revitalization efforts, including waterfront development and historic
preservation, aim to attract new residents and businesses.
Norwich State Hospital
One of the most infamous abandoned places
in Norwich (spanning into neighboring Preston) is the Norwich State
Hospital, a sprawling former psychiatric facility that has fueled
countless haunted legends. Opened in 1904 as a treatment center for the
mentally ill, it expanded over the decades to include buildings for
tuberculosis patients, the criminally insane, and those with addictions,
reaching a peak of over 3,000 residents in the 1950s. The 400-acre
campus featured tunnels connecting structures, administrative buildings,
and nurses' quarters, but it closed in 1996 amid reports of
overcrowding, abuse, and outdated practices.
Legends of hauntings
abound, with visitors and explorers describing an oppressive atmosphere
that makes skin crawl—feelings of heaviness on the shoulders,
unexplained footsteps echoing in empty halls, doors slamming shut on
their own, and even physical sensations like a hand brushing against
one's head during patrols. Paranormal investigators have reported orbs
of light, disembodied voices, and sightings of shadowy figures, often
attributed to the suffering of former patients. Graffiti, including a
bloody pentagram (possibly fake), adds to the creepy vibe, especially in
remnants like peeled children's wallpaper in old houses or abandoned
medical equipment scattered amid decay. The tunnels and certain
buildings, like the Salmon Building, are said to be hotspots for
activity.
Today, most of the site has been demolished due to hazards
like asbestos and structural instability, leaving just four abated
buildings standing, all fenced off and inaccessible to the public.
Trespassing is illegal, with fines and potential jail time, as local
authorities from Norwich and Preston work on redevelopment plans,
including ties to the nearby Mohegan Sun Casino and a river walk
project.
Norwichtown Colonial Burial Ground
Shifting from
abandoned institutions to spectral folklore, the Norwichtown Colonial
Burial Ground (also known as the Old Norwichtown Cemetery) is tied to
one of Norwich's most enduring urban legends: the ghostly visitation of
Benedict Arnold. This historic cemetery, dating back to the 17th century
and located in the Norwichtown area, serves as the final resting place
for early settlers, including Arnold's mother, Hannah Waterman King
Arnold.
The legend claims that every Halloween at midnight, the
infamous Revolutionary War traitor—born in Norwich—returns as a spectral
figure on horseback. He reportedly dismounts, limps (referencing his
real-life war injury) to his mother's grave, and pays homage before
vanishing. This tale, considered the best-known ghost story in the city,
evokes themes of regret and familial ties, given Arnold's betrayal of
the American cause and his complicated local legacy. While not as
overtly "abandoned" as the hospital, the ancient graveyard's weathered
stones and quiet isolation contribute to its eerie reputation, with some
visitors reporting a chilling presence around All Hallows' Eve.
Mohegan Connection: The Mohegan Tribe, based nearby, has historical
ties to Norwich, and their casino, Mohegan Sun, is a major economic
driver.
Architectural Gems: The city’s Victorian and Federal-style
buildings, especially in Norwichtown, are well-preserved, earning parts
of Norwich a place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Famous Residents: In addition to Benedict Arnold and Samuel Huntington,
Norwich was home to figures like William A. Buckingham, a Civil War-era
governor, and Lydia Huntley Sigourney, a 19th-century poet.