From some research you will find that this building was constructed in the summer of 1885 by local contractor John Parker, a prominent figure in Norwalk’s early development. Parker was responsible for many of the town’s major construction projects during that era, until his untimely death in 1893 while working on the Glass Block at West Main and Benedict. His legacy, quite literally, is built into the bones of this structure.

The site itself has deeper roots. An 1881 news item notes that the building was originally part of the Globe Roller Mills property, which spanned nearly half the block between South Foster and South Prospect. The mill, housed in a three-story structure just north of the 1885 building, was owned by Theodore Williams—likely acquired through foreclosure. It operated as both a commercial flour producer and a custom grinding service for local farmers. Tragically, the main mill was heavily damaged by fire on March 17, 1909. Though it was rebuilt and resumed operations for a time, its role in the community gradually faded.

Following the mill’s closure, the brick building found new life in small-scale manufacturing, though records don’t specify what was produced. From 1922 through at least 1930, it housed the Norwalk Auto Parts Co., a firm that crafted automobile components in the early days of car manufacturing—before assembly lines ruled the industry. Post–World War II, Lesch Upholstering took over, and by 1960, the building had become part of the Chick Hatchery. By 1968, city directories list Hart Advertising as the occupant.

This building has worn many hats—mill, machine shop, upholsterer’s haven, hatchery, and ad agency. Now, it stands ready for its next chapter: a woodworking shop where history meets craftsmanship, and restoration becomes a tribute to every hand that shaped it before.