Fairfield Legislators applaud State Grant for Burr Homestead Upgrades

Fairfield lawmakers State Senator Tony Hwang, State Representatives Brenda Kupchick (R-132) and Laura Devlin (R-134) today applauded a $500,000 grant from the state-funded Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP) for safety and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access improvements to the historic Burr Mansion.

The grant will permit the town of Fairfield to comply with important safety and ADA requirements while advancing in their plans to revitalize Fairfield’s historic town green. The upgrades would also allow for additional educational programs and services for visitors and residents who are disabled.

The current structure, rich with history and culture, serves as both an educational and social center and also houses some of the community’s most active social service agencies.

“Every taxpayer dollar is precious, and this investment maximizes the value of those dollars on several levels,” said Sen. Hwang. “Fairfield and the region will see economic, social and cultural benefits from this funding. We thank the governor for recognizing the lasting value of this project. What wonderful news for all Fairfield residents.”

“This is a welcome grant that will permit many more people especially those with physical disabilities to learn about the rich history of Fairfield,” said Rep. Kupchick.

“We have a great opportunity to teach those young and old about our great town. This state grant furthers that unique goal,” said Rep. Devlin.

The Burr which is located in the heart of Fairfield Connecticut’s Town Green historic district at 739 Old Post Road, is one of several sites of historical interest located close to the Fairfield Museum. Today the Burr Mansion hosts many large and small gatherings including wedding receptions.

The History of the Burr Mansion is as follows: The mansion was rebuilt in 1791 by Thaddeus and Eunice Burr following the Revolutionary War’s burning of Fairfield, the house was one of the town’s cultural and social centers. In the years leading up to the American Revolution, the Burr Mansion hosted George Washington, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams and Aaron Burr. The Burrs held this property from the 1600s until the mid-1800s.

STEAP was created by the General Assembly in 2001 to fund economic development, community conservation and quality of life projects for smaller non-urban municipalities. The state Office of Policy and Management (OPM) administers and oversees STEAP funded programs.