Norwalk, city, Fairfield County, southwestern Connecticut, on Long Island Sound, at the mouth of the Norwalk River; incorporated as a city 1893. It is a research and manufacturing center. Scientific instruments, electronic systems, electrical devices, clothing, and marine equipment are produced. The city has a community college, a technical college, and numerous historic structures. Founded in 1651, it had by the mid-18th century developed small trades and a hatting industry. In 1779 during the American Revolution, the town was burned by the British. In the early 19th century, it was a thriving port; it was reached by railroad in 1848. The name is derived either from “north walk” (a trail north from the seashore) or from the Native American name “Naromake.” Population 77,767 (1980); 78,331 (1990); 82,951 (2000).
