The John C. Anderson House

The John C. Anderson house is a striking example of Second Empire Victorian architecture, nestled between New Haven’s bustling Downtown district and the city’s pastoral retreat, East Rock Park.[1] Commissioned by John C. Anderson, heir to his father’s tobacconist fortune, the house is a time capsule of the industrialization-fueled wealth and extravagance of American Victorianism: the home is adorned with intricate stone, wood, and wrought iron detailing, as well as ornate stained glass windows and an imposing facade hiding equally grand rooms.[2] Though it is over a century old, the home remains an impressive and attention-grabbing Orange Street landmark. Today it is home to Shabtai, a Jewish secret society for Yale seniors.[3]

[1] “The John C. Anderson House (1882).” Historic Buildings of Connecticut. November 28, 2009. http://historicbuildingsct.com/?p=2265

[2] “Recent Events.” The New Haven Preservation Trust. February 3, 2018. http://nhpt.org/index.php/calendar/

[3] O’Leary, Mary. “Shabtai holds Seder in new home, former convent on Orange Street in New Haven.” New Haven Register, April 10, 2017. https://www.nhregister.com/connecticut/article/Shabtai-holds-Seder-in-new-home-former-convent-11313222.php