The Norwalk Historical Society's plans for 2012 include moving into the renovated Smith Street Jail, which will have curatorial work space, and presenting exhibits on the Civil War and American flags, according to society President David Westmoreland.

Westmoreland spoke about the organization's plans during its annual fundraising event Oct. 6 at the Gallaher Mansion, a Tudor Revival-style English fieldstone manor house in Cranbury Park

One of the planned exhibits will focus on Civil War artifacts from Norwalk collectors. The other, “Flags of Our Fathers: A Short History of the American Flag,” will show a collection of flags.

As they strolled through the historic Gallaher Mansion’s oak-paneled rooms with stained glass windows, almost a hundred guests at “An Evening of Historical Proportions” sampled wines, hors d'oeuvres and vied for silent auction items that included artwork, jewelry and historic Norwalk artifacts.

The event raised almost $5,000 and Westmoreland thanked attendees for their support during “a ground-breaking year when we have collaborated, revamped and enhanced our events and programming. This has been made possible by you and others who are passionate about history. The funds raised tonight will help us in our work of educating the public and preserving Norwalk’s rich history, with the goal of making it enjoyable and accessible to people of all ages.”

Among the guests were State Senator Bob Duff of Norwalk, State Representative Gail Lavielle of Wilton, Norwalk City Clerk Andrew Garfunkel, Norwalk Recreation & Parks Director Michael Mocciae and former Norwalk Mayor William Collins. Holly Cuzzone and Celia Maddox from Friends of Cranbury Park related stories about the 1930 mansion’s history and plans for future renovations.

The Norwalk Historical Society was incorporated in 1899 with the purpose of promoting and encouraging historical research in Norwalk. After a period of dormancy, it was re-established in 1949 and continues to focus on “the research, preservation and promotion of interest in the history of Norwalk.”