[2] Norwich was settled by English colonists in the 17th century, and its first wharf was built in 1684.

It developed rapidly as a shipping port, with economic activity focused near the waterfront at the confluence of the Shetucket, Yantic, and Thames Rivers.

A major fire in the downtown in 1793 encouraged a shift to brick construction, but growth was squelched by the economic blockades associated with the War of 1812.

By this time, the city's economy had diversified to include banking, textiles, and other water-powered industry.

[2] The downtown area includes many intact 18th and 19th-century buildings centered on the now-picturesque harbor.