Community Supports Mather Homestead 1778 House Renovation Project

The Mather Homestead Foundation received two significant leadership grants supporting its community-wide fundraising effort to complete Phase One of its 1778 House Restoration Project. Robert J. Granata, CEO of First County Bank and President of The First County Bank Foundation, along with Willard Miley and Karen Kelly, Vice Presidents of the First County Bank Foundation, and David Genovese, CEO of Baywater Properties, presented the grants.

These grants are part of a collaborative effort launched by a matching grant from The 1772 Foundation/Preservation Connecticut, that motivated seventy-seven generous donors to contribute toward preserving Darien’s only Registered National Historic Landmark, a designation reserved for sites of exceptional historical significance in the United States. In total, over $60,000 was raised through this effort enabling the Phase One completion.

“The First County Bank Foundation is honored to support an important project that both preserves the rich history of our community and provides the opportunity for local residents to learn more about early American history,” said Robert J. Granata, CEO of First County Bank and President of First County Bank Foundation. David Genovese added, "We are thrilled to be a part of this collaborative effort to restore such a significant historical landmark. The Mather Homestead is a treasure for Darien, and this project ensures its preservation for future generations."

"The support for the 1778 House Restoration Project is a testament to the remarkable generosity and commitment of our community," said Heather Raker, Executive Director of The Mather Homestead. "We are deeply grateful to The First County Bank Foundation, Baywater Properties, and The 1772 Foundation/Preservation Connecticut, and all of the generous individuals who made this project a reality.”

The Mather Homestead Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is committed to raising awareness of the Mather family’s rich history, dating back to the Revolutionary War, and preserving the legacy of Stephen T. Mather, an instrumental figure in the establishment of the modern National Parks System. This preservation effort ensures that The Mather Homestead will continue to serve as a vital historical education resource for visitors of all ages in the Darien community and beyond.

Phase Two of the 1778 House Restoration Project will kick off this fall, preserving The Mather Homestead’s collections, including antiques original to the house and important historical documents from the 18th century including the family bible and land deed records. To make a donation or learn more, please visit www.matherhomestead.org.