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East Norwalk Historical Cemetery: A Walk Through Time

Step back in time at Norwalk's oldest cemetery, the final resting place of founding fathers and legendary figures.

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The East Norwalk Historical Cemetery, established around 1655, is Norwalk's oldest cemetery and the final resting place for many of its first settlers. This triangular-shaped cemetery offers a serene glimpse into the past, with notable burials including Governor Thomas Fitch and Colonel Thomas Fitch Jr., often associated with the Yankee Doodle legend.

A brief summary to East Norwalk Historical Cemetery

  • Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more contemplative experience.
  • Take a camera to capture the historic gravestones and peaceful surroundings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in East Norwalk, walking to the cemetery is straightforward. Head towards the intersection of East Avenue, Cemetery Street, and Gregory Boulevard. The cemetery is located at 2 2nd St, Norwalk, CT 06855, in the triangle formed by these streets. Walking from the East Norwalk train station takes about 10-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the cemetery via public transport, take a Norwalk Transit District bus. Several routes serve the East Norwalk area, including lines 5 and 7. Check the Norwalk Transit District schedule for the most up-to-date information. Get off at the bus stop nearest to 2nd Street, from where it is a short walk to the cemetery. A single fare costs around $1.75.

  • Car

    If driving, use a GPS or map app to navigate to 2 2nd St, Norwalk, CT 06855. The cemetery is located near the intersection of East Avenue and Gregory Boulevard. Limited street parking is available nearby. Be mindful of parking regulations. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $1.50 - $2.50 per hour.

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Discover more about East Norwalk Historical Cemetery

Established circa 1655, the East Norwalk Historical Cemetery stands as Norwalk's oldest cemetery, a testament to the town's rich history. The cemetery is the final resting place for many of the area's first settlers and prominent figures, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the past. The cemetery's triangular shape, bordered by Gregory Boulevard, Cemetery Street, and East Avenue, creates a distinct and peaceful enclosure. Maintained by the Third Taxing District, the cemetery reflects the reverence and respect of the community for its founding families. A memorial at the north entrance lists the names of 31 settlers who founded Norwalk in 1649. Among the notable individuals buried here are Governor Thomas Fitch (1699–1774), who served as the Governor of Connecticut from 1754 to 1763, and his son, Colonel Thomas Fitch Jr. (1725–1795), believed by many to be the original "Yankee Doodle" dandy. Other prominent figures include John Bowton, an original settler, Reverend Thomas Hanford, the first minister of Norwalk, and John Copp, a teacher, doctor, and representative in the Connecticut House. Many graves are unmarked, a reminder of a time before commercial headstones were readily available. The East Norwalk Cemetery Association was founded in 1843 as the Down Town Cemetery Association to care for the grounds. The Third Taxing District took over the deed to the land in 1966, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the cemetery offers a tranquil retreat where visitors can reflect on the lives and legacies of those who shaped Norwalk's early history.

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