This photo was taken at Union Square in Norwich in 1885. Norwich City Hall is on the left, and Broadway Church on the right. At this point in time, the steeple was the highest point in downtown. Unfortunately, it was struck by lightning a few years later, and the damage was so severe it had to be taken down. It was never replaced. The mill in the background, between City Hall and the church, is Hopkins & Allen Manufacturing Company. They produced handguns and rifles.

Ken Keeley is the author of 12 pictorial books about Norwich. He can be reached at kenekjr000@comcast.net.