The Norwalk Historical Society and Norwalk Historical Commission calls on the community for historic objects and artifact donations to be featured in the forthcoming permanent exhibit in the Smith Street Jail entitled “Miserable vagrants, petty thieves and scamps: a history of crime in Norwalk.”  The organizations are actively seeking Norwalk-related photographs, mugshots, documents, memorabilia and ephemera pertaining to crime, punishment and the police.  While particular emphasis is on the pre-1940 era and Norwalk specifically, there is an interest in viewing or hearing about all items that fall within the above categories regardless of location or time period.

If you have an item or items that fit the criteria, please visit the Norwalk Historical Society’s website: https://norwalkhistoricalsociety.org/preservation/call-for-artifacts-for-smith-street-jail-exhibit/ to complete an object donation form.  The organizations are asking for one form per item.  Questions can be directed to the Norwalk Historical Society at: NorwalkJailCollects@norwalkhistoricalsociety.org or by calling 203-846-0525.

The Norwalk Historical Society focuses on “the research, preservation, and promotion of interest in the history of Norwalk.”  Through its many educational exhibits, programs and lectures, it highlights Norwalk’s rich history and diversity in the region.  The Norwalk Historical Society manages and operates the Norwalk Historical Society Museum and Mill Hill Historic Park.  The Norwalk Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, sustained mainly by the generous support of members, donors, grants, programs, sponsors and volunteers.

The Norwalk Historical Commission oversees four city cemeteries, various collections and archives of the Norwalk Museum, and nine historic properties owned by the City of Norwalk.  Historical Commission members are appointed for five-year terms on a revolving basis by the Mayor and are approved by the Common Council of Norwalk.