Harriet Arnold House (1909)

The construction of the craftsman-style shingled bungalow at 20 Cove Street in Noank is described in an article in The Day (of New London) from July 2, 1909:

George MacDonald may well be proud of the general appearance of the cottage which he has recently built for Mrs. Harriet Arnold of New York city. The location is one of the finest in the village, being situated on the shore of the west cove and commanding a view of Fishers Island sound. The cottage although not thatched is of the bungalow plan and contains six large rooms, besides butler’s pantry and baths and covers quite a space of ground. The broad piazza will be a source of much comfort and convenience. The interior is finished in hard wood and the open rafters add to the attractiveness. The open fire place and outside chimneys, built of cobblestones, are also pleasing features. The cottage is equipped with all the improvements and the grounds although not extensive are among the finest in town. Freeman Rogers had the contract for decorating the interior. Mrs. Arnold and family are expected to arrive as soon as all work is finished.

Roswell B. Fitch House (1850)

The house at 20 Pearl Street in Noank was erected c. 1850. About 1890 it was remodeled with Queen Anne-style elements, including the addition of a tower. The house was the residence of Roswell B. Fitch (1833-1908), who is described in Picturesque New London and Its Environs (1901):

Roswell Burrows Fitch ,of Noank, was born in Groton, Connecticut, April 19th, 1833. His parents were Elisha and Mary P. Fitch. At twelve years of age he commenced to be self-supporting, and from then until he was fourteen, occupied a clerkship in a general store. Later his summers were spent in fishing for a livelihood, and his winters in attending school. Subsequently he again became clerk in a store, and was afterwards engaged to assume the management of a union store which was erected for the special purpose of being placed under his charge. In 1851 he became an active partner in the business, and bought out, one-by-one, the twelve other owners, until he possessed absolute control. In May, 1890, he sold his business, and closed an active commercial career of thirty-five years duration. In October, 1854, Mr. Fitch married Ellen Elizabeth Wilbur, who died February 13th, 1874, leaving a son, Walter Wilbur Fitch, who was born in 1859, and died December 26th, 1888. Mr. Fitch married again, in 1875, Olive Elizabeth Wilmot. Mr. and Mrs. Fitch have a daughter, Elizabeth Wilbur Fitch, born April 10th, 1884.

1684 King Street, Enfield (1820)

The house at 1684 King Street in Enfield was built c. 1820. It is an excellent example of a brick Federal style house with four chimneys and an entryway featuring sidelights and a fan window. Starting in 1953, the house was home to Crands Candy Castle for almost fifty years. John Crand and his family lived on the second floor of the house and manufactured and sold candy on the first floor. After he retired in 1963, he was followed by his sons, Tom and Robert. Tom retired in 1990 and Robert continued on until the business closed in 2001. The house is now a private residence.