Historic Charm Meets Modern Plans: Updates Approved for Farmington’s 1761 Farmington Avenue

Preserving Farmington’s History: Unionville District Approves Key Updates

📢 Last Thursday, January 9, 2025, the Unionville Historic District and Properties Commission met to deliberate on an essential application for a certificate of appropriateness. The focus? A historic property at 1761 Farmington Avenue, owned by Marshall and Tracy Fillian, received approval to replace its termite-damaged wooden fencing with a more modern, durable aluminum alternative.

This meeting in the Town Hall Council Chambers at 1 Monteith Drive, Farmington, CT provided a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of historic preservation and modern innovation.

The Property: A Historic Gem

The Fillians’ home is an architectural treasure, built between 1775 and 1844, with elements of Greek Revival design added over time. The house, steeped in history, once served as lodging for trolley car drivers in its early days. It sits near the former Wood-n-Tap site, which functioned as a trolley turnstile repair location—a nod to Farmington’s vibrant past.

The Fillians cited severe termite damage to their wooden fence as the driving force behind their application. Their proposed replacement, a powder-coated aluminum fence, will stand four feet tall, echoing the original design while ensuring long-term durability.

Key Participants & Contributions

• Garrett Sawyer, Town Planner and Commission Liaison, guided the procedural aspects of the meeting.
• Lisa Johnson, Chair of the Unionville Historic District and Properties Commission, led the discussion.
• Commissioners Bob Howard, Steve Peterson, Matt Wilkins, and Kelly Sanders reviewed and approved the application.
• Homeowners Marshall and Tracy Fillian presented their plans, explaining the need for structural updates and their efforts to preserve the property’s character.

While some commissioners suggested exploring composite materials for historical consistency, the Fillians opted for aluminum fencing for its lightweight durability, noting its compatibility with gates and resistance to UV and termite damage.

What’s Next for 1761 Farmington Avenue?

The Fillians hinted at future upgrades, including the replacement of hazardous, crumbling concrete steps with new granite steps and updated railings. This ensures their home not only honors its historical roots but also meets modern safety standards.

The commission approved the application unanimously, underscoring the importance of balancing preservation with practicality.

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Author: Jack Beckett ☕

Fueled by three cups of coffee and a passion for Farmington’s rich history, I’m your go-to source for stories that bring our community to life. From zoning mysteries to local legends, I cover it all.

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