New Roof for 300 Year Old Lambert House Ensures Long Term Preservation
The Wilton Historical Society is thrilled to announce that the iconic c. 1726 Lambert House has a new roof. The preservation of this historic landmark is part of the organization’s continuing work to commemorate America 250, as well as the 300th anniversary of Lambert House and the creation of Wilton Parish.
This important year will be commemorated through additional programming at the Historical Society’s museum on Danbury Road as well as walking tours at Lambert Corner. Repairing the roof is part of a $179,000 multi-year project to revitalize the historic buildings at Lambert Corner with new siding and roofing as well as renovating two smaller structures in critical condition.
Constructed by David Lambert in the early 18th century, the Lambert House has served as a home, tavern, museum headquarters, and retail shop throughout its long history. Possibly the oldest house still standing in Wilton, the structure at 150 Danbury Road is represented on the official Town Seal.
The Lamberts were one of the earliest colonial settlers in Wilton, purchasing the land where the house currently stands at the intersection of Route 7 and 33. David Lambert built the house shortly after in the mid-1720’s. His son, David II, was part of the group that helped found Wilton as an independent town in 1802.
Thanks to the installation of a new cedar shingle roof, the Lambert House will be protected from the elements for the foreseeable future.
In 1965, the Society began its dedication to preserving historic buildings by purchasing the structure and utilizing it as the first permanent headquarters. The house now serves as the centerpiece of the current complex of nine historic structures at Lambert Corner, all of which are preserved through adaptive use, the concept of using old buildings in new ways. Wilton was in the forefront of the adaptive use movement in the 1970s allowing commercial use to provide income for restoration and ongoing maintenance. The management and care of all of the Historical Society’s 18 historic buildings is largely handled by a small but dedicated committee of volunteers.
The Wilton Historical Society extends a very sincere thank you to Rinaldi Brothers Roofing for the excellent work and their generous donation of labor.
Funding for this phase of the project was made possible through the NAA program thanks to Wilton RE, Eversource, and Santa Energy, as well as grants from The Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust and Walmart. Previous phases were also funded by Drum Hill Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as The 1772 Foundation and Preservation Connecticut.
The Wilton Historical Society receives no town or state funding, our work is made possible by the generosity of our volunteers and donors. Every gift makes an impact on our mission.