Only a few tickets remain for the 3rd annual “Historic Homes of 06880” house tour. This Sunday’s event (November 2, 1 to 4 p.m.) includes 4 very cool (and different) homes.
Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.
Click here for tickets — and read on! Our friends at KMS Team at Compass once again co-sponsor the tour.
249 Greens Farms Road
The house was built in 1907 by Charles Bedford, president of the Vacuum Oil Company and son of wealthy businessman Edward T. Bedford. (A second Bedford house on Greens Farms Road is also on this year’s house tour. See below for details.)
Charles married Happy Briggs, and sold the property to Michael Hawie in 1920. The property was sold to multiple people until the current owners purchased the property. The home is on the market, listed by KMS Team at Compass.
A veranda, rear porch and several balconies offer views of the expansive grounds, and luxurious pool. It’s a great example of Westport’s Victorian-style homes.
Plus, it’s just steps away from another home on our 3rd annual tour:
.221 Greens Farms Road
Edward T. Bedford — the businessman and philanthropist who endowed the Westport YMCA and Bedford Elementary School, among many other gifts — built the Colonial Revival in 1904 to replace a Federal house that burned. His son Frederick owned it until his death. His daughter Ruth Bedford lived there from 1950 to 1963. When she died a decade ago, her $120 million estate was divided between the Westport Y, Norwalk Hospital and the Foxcroft School.
The Colonial Revival style reflects the finest quality work of the period. Architectural details include a conical tower with a Palladian window. The home is on the market, listed by Coldwell Banker.
209 Wilton Road
Known as the Nathaniel S. Kirk House, this circa 1870 antique was expanded in 1900, 1930 and 1989. Many may not even know it exists, behind the perimeter fencing. A quick glance shows only the old well.
The current owners have worked tirelessly for nearly 5 years to add their own touch. Original fireplaces, wide board flooring and beams help retain the character and charm of this Connecticut classic. A beautifully paneled family room and incredible Prohibition Era bar room often have guests staying well past their welcome.
155 Long Lots Road
This beautiful, somewhat humble 1938 Cape Cod-style home has been expanded more than once over time, by previous owners.
The current owners have created more natural light, and a more open floor plan, with exposed beams. There is a wonderful loft space above the barn-style garage. Think “Easthampton meets Westport.”
Outdoor amenities include a pool and tennis court (recently transformed into a pickleball magnet).
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“06880” often celebrates Westport’s rich history. We honor homeowners who preserve the past, while enhancing their neighborhoods — and those who bring new life to them.
“06880” tells stories. As you explore all 4 houses, you’ll learn the stories behind each one.
The homeowners will point out cool aspects of each home. You’ll get a brochure explaining the 4 houses too.
Our friends at KMS Team at Compass are once again sponsoring the “Historic Homes of 06880” tour.
Tickets are $60 each, $100 for 2. Proceeds help fund “06880”‘s work — which, as always, chronicles Westport’s past, present and future.
Click here for tickets. Questions? Email 06880blog@gmail.com
I can’t picture where 155 Long Lots is. Was that Elizabeth Taylor’s house? After that, Harry Reasoner lived in it. Is that 155?
No, that was #175. This is a little bit west, same side of the street.
I think the people may be reversed on the Bedford house. Ruth’s father was Fred and her grandfather was E.T. Bedford. Every now and then I would have a glass of scotch with Ruth and she would talk about horses and bird hunting in Scotland in the old days.