Share your Story

Manresa Island has been many things over the years: a unique coastal wetland, a Jesuit retreat, the site of a coal- and oil-fired power plant, and now a place of community vision for accessible public space and healthier ecosystems.

This oral history project is a collaborative effort to capture and preserve the stories, memories, and perspectives of people connected to the island. Together, we’re creating a public archive that will help researchers, educators, and future generations understand the layered history of this remarkable place.

The project is led by Wesleyan University’s Energy Legacies and Ecological Futures course, in partnership with UConn’s Engaged, Public, Oral and Community Histories program, and CCSU’s Public History program.

We want to hear from anyone with a connection to Manresa Island, including:

• Residents of South Norwalk and nearby neighborhoods with memories of the island
• Former workers or contractors at the Manresa Power Plant
• Environmental advocates, civic leaders, or activists involved in cleanup or redevelopment
• Historians, planners, educators, and students who know the island’s story
• Anyone with personal or family ties to the island

Interviews are conducted through TheirStory, a secure and user-friendly platform that makes it simple to participate from home or in person. You’ll be able to choose a time that works best for you.

With your permission, your story will be recorded and added to a public archive, ensuring it’s available for students, researchers, and community members for years to come.

Your story matters. By sharing your experiences, you’ll:

• Help preserve the history of Manresa Island in your own words
• Contribute to a deeper understanding of the island’s role in our community and environment
• Leave a record for future generations