the rest looks correct 55.2-59, and I think it looks like the longer early column, so I'd say you have the original .... the disconnected wiring is the turn signal switch for the "shroud/hub top" you show, which is a 55-59 accessory turn signal cup -
some pics here, including the plug that should be part of the under-dash harness .... and the
'57 accessories manual shows the detail
some folks do find the wheel "really close to the driver seat", but usually it's more the driver is "really close to the wheel" - if you find a later [shorter] column [57-59] it'd be a bolt in, and the correct [flat] 56 wheel would fit .... it may be there are minor internal differences between earlier and later boxes, and the kit from Carter is based on the later one but sold for all, not an unusual situation
Bill
