Norwich celebrates American history

NORWICH, Conn. (WTNH) -- One hundred and fifty years ago today America changed forever when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Of course that proclamation ended slavery in this country. Today in Norwich the city marked that landmark piece of legislation.

For a time this afternoon Howard T-Brown Memorial Park was transformed into a Civil War era battlefield.

"The cannons were really loud and I just really like to learn about history of the towns of Connecticut because it's fun," said Holly Ellison of Norwich.

The scene was complete with cannons' firing, union and confederate soldiers and even an actor portraying President Abraham Lincoln.

Today, 150 years after the fact the city of Norwich celebrated the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

"It's our history and to commemorate this it's terrific. I haven't seen a town do such a big event in a long time," said Lisa Jones of North Scituate, RI.

The day of events included the bells ringing throughout the city and more than a half hour of continuous cannon fire.

It was a day of pride for Dennis Jenkins and others who helped put the celebration together.

"I think it's a historic thing for the city of Norwich to be doing this. I'm proud of the turnout we had here today and it puts Norwich on the map," said Jenkins of Norwich.

Organizers say they were happy to see so many people, young and older turn out for the celebration.
    
For many families it was an opportunity to live history.

"They enjoyed it thoroughly, they're learning about these things in school, so this kind of brings it all together for them," said Barry Ellison of Norwich.