FAIRFIELD — A historic house in town is getting a fresh coat of exterior paint as part of renovations undertaken by the Fairfield Historical Society.
Kevin Violette, president of the historical society, said work is underway to update the exterior of the Fairfield History House at 42 High St.
As part of renovations, the elaborate trim is being replaced along the exterior and the original lead paint is being painstakingly chipped off and disposed of properly, followed by fresh paint that matches the house’s original off-white and greenish-gray colors.
Built in 1894, the house was owned by a school teacher who donated it to the historical society before her death. The society has endeavored to keep the house in pristine condition, exactly as it would have been more than a century ago.
The building still has original furniture and clothing from the time period, and has become a celebration of local history, with Fairfield residents donating a variety of items for display, according to Violette.
Residents can call the house to request a walk-through with volunteers, and the society uses the adjacent barn for its barn sale twice a year. The next event is scheduled for Sept. 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the following day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Violette said.
With any work done to the house, the society seeks to keep it as close to original as possible, Violette said, although sometimes compromises must be made for safety and practicality.
The original exterior trim, for example, was made out of pine, but it cracks easily and does not hold up to the weather. So this summer, it has been replaced with replica trim made from PVC vinyl, which should last much longer.
Similarly, to begin the work of repainting the house, the historical society first had to find a company that could remove the old lead paint before repainting.
Work on the house’s exterior has already cost more than $40,000, according to Violette, who said he is worried about being able to buy enough paint for the back of the house.
He said he is hopeful the historical society will receive enough donations to finish the project this fall or, at the latest, next spring.
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