Exploring Norwalks Sports History: From 50 to 150 Years Ago

Norwalk, Connecticut boasts a rich sports history that reflects the towns charming, historic, vibrant, diverse, suburban and picturesque aspects. Here are some of the best places to explore Norwalks sporting past.

The first stop is LockwoodMatthews Mansion (295 West Ave., Norwalk CT). Built in 1868 by wealthy merchant LeGrand Lockwood and later purchased by oil tycoon Charles Matthews in 1876, this stunning mansion was once home to lavish parties attended by many prominent athletes of the era. The expansive Ballroom still displays signed baseballs from Hall of Famers like Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb who played exhibitions here during offseason.

Next up is the Calvin Reimold Softball Field (100 North Taylor Avenue Extension), which has been a beloved community fixture for over a century. First built in 1902 as an openair field with dirt infield and fenceless outfield near Rowayton train station; Over time it transforms into one of the most scenic softball fields around next to Five Mile River bridge yet surrounded on three sides with wooded area giving players sense playing inside vast green bowl . Come here for local leagues games or even pickup matches on weekends.

For more than six decades beginning late nineteencentury Crystal Theater (Historic South Main St.) hosted boxing events that attracted crowds from all across Connecticut. One famous bout pitted world champion Marvin Hart against legendary fighter Jack Johnson before their historical title fight set at Las Vegas twenty years laterCrystal offered unique advantages compared other venues ,such as proximity large workingclass Irish population or ample space accommodations so fans would often make trip specifically for fights they couldnt see anywhere else .

Lastly,Oyster Shell Park(formerly called Mathews Park) located off Calf Pasture Beach Road was popular destination dating back over hundred years ago when its baseball diamond and grandstands served as local teams home field. Today, visitors can walk through onsite maritime aquarium and visit stepping stones museum for Children but the park still retains decadesold charm with its picturesque views across Long Island Sound.

Dont miss these fascinating stops if you want to explore Norwalks sports heritage while experiencing the towns enduring cultural traditions and charming vibe!

Websites:

LockwoodMatthews Mansion: www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com

Calvin Reimold Softball Field: www.norwalkct.org/547/SoftballFields

Crystal Theater: https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m14447

Oyster Shell Park/Mathews Park : https://norwalkct.org/facilities/facility/details/oystershellpark