When settlers first arrived in Norwich the wooded area was filled with a large variety of plants and animals. Evidently, the proprietors homes needed protection from stray animal and varmints.

In 1670, there were “front” fences running along the fronts of the house-lots on West Town Street and “general” fences  separating the lots side to side. A front fence had five rails and a general fence had three rails. The primary entry ways to the town were protected by the six gates shown on the left.

Two animal pounds were erected in 1669, one at each end of the town, near Gates 1 and 6. It is believed that the pounds were fully populated with stray or lost cattle, goats and swine.

The next year a city ordinance, which established rules for fences and gates was enacted. It stated : “It is ordered if any person shall pass with horse or cattle over the general fence and so come through the Little Plain, to or from the town, he shall pay a fine of 5 shillings” (about $60 in today’s dollars).