James Merrill House
Every June, many museums and attractions across Connecticut celebrates Open House Day. A day when they offer discounted or free admission. Some of them have extra fun activities or giveaways. I always love taking advantage of this day, last year I went to the neighboring town, Stonington. I’ve gone to Stonington countless times, it is another one of my favorite towns. I’ve seen pretty much almost everything so what could be left for me? The James Merrill House!
Let’s do some background first. James Merrill is a famous poet, having written many books. He was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1977. In 1956, he bought the apartment on Water Street in Stonington and lived there until his death in 1995. The apartment is in a building which became a National Landmark, it is a 1901 Victorian commercial and residential building. The James Merrill House was left to Stonington Village Improvement Association, they maintained his apartment. There is a writers-in-residence program, where a residency is offered for writers. Currently more than 85 writers have lived and worked at the James Merrill House.
The James Merrill House is usually not opened to the public because of the writers-in-residence program. During Open house Day, they held a grand opening of the new visitor’s center on the 1st floor so they opened the doors for a rare opportunity. I’ve always wanted to tour inside, I saw some photos from writers who previously lived there.
Walking up the stairs to 3rd and 4th floors, I felt like I was back in New York City. It was very narrow and steep. The apartment was small but cozy! I was amazed how many books could fit in the space. As a book lover, I don’t know why this continues to surprise me! My favorite room had to be the secret study. It was located in a room with a secret door built into the bookshelf. This secret space was a nook (or bed?) surrounded by books with amazing views of the Borough and the water. Throughout the apartment, the quirky decor did not go unnoticed. The dining room was painted orange. There was bold wallpaper in the living room. It was very fun!
I was blown away by the views on the balcony on the 4th floor (top of the building). I actually stood there for a LONG time taking in the views of sailboats on the water, admiring all of my favorite houses I’ve photographed so many times but seeing them in a new light, and it is the ideal people watching spot! I know the sunrises and sunsets are amazing in Stonington so I could only imagine how beautiful it is from the balcony. I’ve never been that high up in Stonington borough (other than the lighthouse) so it was fun to see a new angle!
The Open House Day is always a fun day that I looked forward to every year. There is always a new place to see. I love that there are so many spots in Connecticut, it’s constantly an adventure to explore. After touring the James Merrill House, I went to Stonington Lighthouse and took advantage of the free admission. It is newly renovated and looks beautiful. I made my way up to the top of the lighthouse where I took in more of the amazing waterfront views. Stonington truly is a beautiful town!
