A History of The Russell House

The Samuel Russell House is one of the premier examples of Greek Revival architecture in the Northeast. Designed by Ithiel Town, one of the period’s foremost architects, it was built between 1828 and 1830. In addition to its architectural importance, the house is nationally significant as the home of Samuel Russell, a central figure in the China trade and founder of Russell & Company. With the success of his business, Russell commissioned a fine house for his wife, Frances, and their family. Ithiel Town’s design is based on the Greek temple model. The house consists of a tall, almost square, gabled main block, with a lower gabled wing of the same style added about 1855. Six magnificent Corinthian columns support the front pediment. Many of the interior spaces retain their early, elaborate architectural details. Walls are painted using a trompe l’oeil effect, en grisaille, creating the illusion of paneling. Several of the original crystal chandeliers remain, as do the four black marble fireplaces in the downstairs parlors.

Five generations of the Russell family, including a city Mayor and prominent members of Middletown’s business, political and cultural community, occupied the house until 1937 when it was deeded to Wesleyan University by Thomas Macdonough Russell, Jr. Known from 1937 to 1996 as Honors College, the house was a flourishing intellectual center whose programs included lectures by poets, authors and distinguished scholars. In 1970, the Russell House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and it was named a National Historic Landmark in 2001. A ramp for use by individuals with disabilities was completed in 2004.

For over thirty years the Russell House has been the site of prose and poetry readings and Sunday afternoon concerts, all of which are free and open to the public. The building and garden, especially during the warmer months when a tent can be set up behind the house, is a lovely site for weddings receptions, and other special events.