Step into the world of classic television as we explore the Vivian Vance house, a piece of Hollywood history nestled in the charming town of Stamford, Connecticut. This $1.5 million property was once home to the beloved actress best known for her role as Ethel Mertz on the iconic sitcom “I Love Lucy.” Vance’s residence offers a fascinating glimpse into the private life of one of television’s most cherished stars, blending the glamour of vintage celebrity residences with the cozy charm of New England living.
Let’s take a closer look at this classic Hollywood home and discover what made it so special to the woman who brought laughter to millions. If you’re interested in learning about Alex Gorsky House, be sure to check out this article.
Who is Vivian Vance?
Vivian Vance was more than just Ethel Mertz; she was a trailblazer in the world of television comedy. Born in 1909 in Cherryvale, Kansas, Vance’s journey to stardom was anything but ordinary. She started her career in theater, working her way up from small roles to Broadway productions. But it was her role as Ethel Mertz on “I Love Lucy” that catapulted her to fame and made her a household name.
Vance’s chemistry with Lucille Ball was legendary, and their on-screen friendship translated into a real-life bond that lasted for years. As Lucille Ball’s co-star, Vance brought a unique blend of wit, charm, and impeccable comic timing to the screen. Her portrayal of Ethel earned her an Emmy Award in 1954, making her the first actress to win an Emmy for Best Supporting Actress.
After “I Love Lucy” ended, Vance continued to work in television, appearing in various shows and reuniting with Ball for “The Lucy Show.” But as the years went by, Vance sought a quieter life away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. This desire for tranquility led her to settle in Stamford, Connecticut, where she would spend her later years in the comfort of her beloved home.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vivian Roberta Jones |
| Birth Date | July 26, 1909 |
| Birthplace | Cherryvale, Kansas |
| Death Date | August 17, 1979 |
| Age at Death | 70 years |
| Cause of Death | Metastatic breast cancer |
| Profession | Actress, Singer |
| Famous Role | Ethel Mertz on “I Love Lucy” |
| Emmy Awards | First actress to win Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress (1954) |
| Notable Shows | – I Love Lucy (1951-1957) – The Lucy Show (1962-1965) – Here’s Lucy (1968-1972) |
| Marriages | Three marriages (third husband was John Dodds) |
| Final Residence | Stamford, Connecticut |
| Hollywood Walk of Fame | Received star posthumously on February 14, 1991 |
| Early Career | Broadway performer, Albuquerque Little Theatre founding member |
| Unique Achievement | First divorcee character on weekly American television series |
Vivian Vance House & Location
The Vivian Vance house is located in the picturesque town of Stamford, Connecticut. This Stamford celebrity house became Vance’s primary residence from the 1960s until her death in 1979. Stamford, known for its blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, provided the perfect backdrop for Vance’s retreat from the spotlight.
Situated in a quiet neighborhood, the Vivian Vance Connecticut property offered the privacy and serenity that the actress craved after years in the public eye. The exact location of the house isn’t publicly disclosed to protect the privacy of current residents, but it’s believed to be in one of Stamford’s more upscale areas, known for its tree-lined streets and classic New England architecture.
The choice of Stamford as her home reflects Vance’s desire for a lifestyle that balanced her Hollywood past with a more down-to-earth present. This 1960s TV star home became a sanctuary where Vance could relax, entertain close friends, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life away from the cameras.
Features of Vivian Vance House
The Vivian Vance house boasts several features that made it the perfect retreat for the beloved actress:
- Classic New England architecture
- Spacious living areas for entertaining
- Cozy fireplace for Connecticut winters
- Well-manicured gardens
- Private outdoor spaces
- Updated kitchen (likely renovated during Vance’s time)
- Multiple bedrooms for guests
- Home office or study area
- Vintage charm with modern amenities
- Proximity to local amenities and nature spots
These features combined to create a home that was both comfortable and reflective of Vance’s status as a television icon. The house served as a perfect blend of her public persona and her desire for a more private life.
House Design and Style
The design of the Vivian Vance house likely reflects the popular architectural styles of mid-20th century New England. As a classic Hollywood home, it probably features elements that were both fashionable and timeless. The house is believed to be a single-family dwelling, possibly in the Colonial or Cape Cod style, which were prevalent in the area during that time.
Typical characteristics of these styles include symmetrical facades, pitched roofs, and classic proportions. The exterior might feature wooden clapboard siding or brick, painted in traditional New England colors. Large windows would allow plenty of natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Inside, the layout would have been designed for both comfort and entertaining. Open living areas, a formal dining room, and a well-appointed kitchen would have been essential for someone accustomed to hosting fellow actors and friends. The house likely underwent renovations during Vance’s ownership to keep it up-to-date with the latest home trends while maintaining its classic charm.
Personal House Touches
Vivian Vance’s personal style and career undoubtedly influenced the decor and atmosphere of her Stamford home. Here are some ways she might have added her personal touch to the property:
- Memorabilia Display: A dedicated space for Vivian Vance memorabilia, including awards, photographs, and keepsakes from her “I Love Lucy” days.
- Cozy Reading Nooks: Given her love for privacy, Vance likely created comfortable spots for reading and relaxation.
- Vintage Furnishings: The house probably featured a mix of antique pieces and mid-century modern furniture, reflecting the 1950s sitcom star properties aesthetic.
- Art Collection: Walls adorned with artwork collected throughout her career, possibly including pieces from fellow actors or local Connecticut artists.
- Garden Retreat: A well-tended garden where Vance could enjoy nature and perhaps grow her own flowers or vegetables.
These personal touches would have transformed the house from a simple residence into a true home that reflected Vance’s personality and interests. The blend of Hollywood glamour and New England charm created a unique living space that was quintessentially Vivian Vance.
Interior Design & Highlights
The interior of the Vivian Vance house likely reflected a blend of Hollywood glamour and comfortable New England living. As one of the notable TV actress properties of its time, the home’s interior design would have been both stylish and functional.
The living room, as the heart of the home, probably featured plush seating arrangements perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing with family. A grand fireplace might have served as the focal point, providing warmth during chilly Connecticut winters and a cozy atmosphere for intimate gatherings. The walls may have been adorned with a mix of classic artwork and personal photographs, showcasing Vance’s journey from stage to screen.
The kitchen, an essential space for any home, would have been updated to include modern appliances of the time while maintaining a charming, vintage feel. It’s easy to imagine Vance preparing meals for friends or enjoying quiet breakfasts in a sunny breakfast nook overlooking the garden.
Bedrooms in the house were likely designed for comfort and tranquility. The master suite would have been a peaceful retreat, perhaps featuring large windows to let in natural light and offer views of the surrounding landscape. Guest rooms would have been equally welcoming, ready to accommodate visiting friends and family.
A home office or study area was probably a must for Vance, providing a space for her to read scripts, correspond with colleagues, or simply enjoy some quiet time with a good book. This room might have housed some of her most treasured Vivian Vance memorabilia, creating a personal museum of her illustrious career.
Outdoor House Spaces
The outdoor spaces of the Vivian Vance house were likely just as important as the interior, offering the actress a private oasis away from the public eye. New England’s natural beauty would have provided a stunning backdrop for the property’s exterior features.
A well-manicured lawn probably surrounded the house, with mature trees offering shade and privacy. Gardens would have been a key feature, possibly including both ornamental flower beds and practical vegetable patches. Vance, like many of her generation, might have enjoyed gardening as a relaxing hobby away from the pressures of Hollywood.
A patio or deck area would have been perfect for outdoor entertaining during the warm months. Here, Vance could have hosted summer barbecues or simply enjoyed her morning coffee while taking in the fresh Connecticut air. The outdoor space might also have included a seating area around a fire pit, ideal for cozy evenings under the stars.
For added privacy, the property likely featured natural or landscaped boundaries, such as hedges or fencing, creating a secluded retreat within the larger neighborhood. This blend of natural beauty and thoughtful landscaping would have made the outdoor areas of Vance’s home a true extension of her living space, reflecting the Vivian Vance lifestyle that balanced celebrity with a love for simple, natural pleasures.
Market Value and Comparisons
The Vivian Vance house, as a piece of Vivian Vance real estate, has seen significant changes in value over the years. While the exact purchase price during Vance’s time isn’t publicly known, we can make some educated guesses based on the real estate market trends of the era and the current value of similar properties in Stamford.
| Year | Estimated Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s | $30,000 – $50,000 | Approximate value when Vance likely purchased the home |
| 1979 | $100,000 – $150,000 | Estimated value at the time of Vance’s passing |
| 2000 | $500,000 – $700,000 | Value after significant appreciation in the late 20th century |
| 2024 | $1.5 million | Current estimated value |
The current estimated value of $1.5 million reflects both the property’s historical significance and the overall appreciation of real estate in the Stamford area. Homes of similar size and style in Stamford currently range from $1.2 million to $2 million, with properties boasting a celebrity connection often commanding a premium.
It’s worth noting that the value of Stamford historical residences like Vance’s has increased dramatically over the decades. This appreciation is due to factors such as the desirability of the location, the limited supply of historic homes, and the overall growth of the Stamford real estate market.
The Vivian Vance house stands as a testament to both the actress’s legacy and the enduring appeal of classic Hollywood homes. Its value today is not just monetary but also cultural, representing a tangible link to the golden age of television comedy.
Other Houses Owned by Vivian Vance
While the Stamford house was Vance’s primary residence in her later years, she lived in various locations throughout her life and career. Here’s a list of other properties associated with Vivian Vance:
- Cherryvale and Independence, Kansas: Childhood homes where Vance spent her early years.
- Albuquerque, New Mexico: Residence during her young adult years when she was involved in local theater.
- New York City, New York: Apartments or shared living spaces during her theater career on Broadway.
- Los Angeles, California: Homes or apartments during her “I Love Lucy” years and subsequent Hollywood career.
- Stamford, Connecticut: Her final and most well-known residence from the 1960s until 1979.
While specific details about these other properties are less known, they each played a role in Vance’s journey from aspiring actress to beloved television star. The Stamford house, however, remains the most significant in terms of her legacy and the place where she chose to spend her final years.
Conclusion
The Vivian Vance house in Stamford, Connecticut, stands as a testament to the life and career of one of television’s most beloved actresses. From its charming New England architecture to its cozy interiors, the house reflects Vance’s desire for a peaceful retreat away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
As we’ve explored, this classic Hollywood home blends the star power of vintage celebrity residences with the warmth and comfort of a true family home. The property’s features, from its well-manicured gardens to its inviting living spaces, paint a picture of Vance’s life beyond the screen – a life of simple pleasures, close friendships, and quiet reflection.
The house’s journey from a mid-century TV actress property to a modern-day $1.5 million estate mirrors the enduring legacy of Vivian Vance herself. Just as her performances continue to bring joy to new generations of viewers, her former home continues to captivate our imagination, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of television comedy.
For fans of “I Love Lucy,” classic TV enthusiasts, and those fascinated by New England celebrity houses, the Vivian Vance house remains a source of intrigue and admiration. It stands not just as a valuable piece of real estate, but as a cherished piece of entertainment history – a place where one of America’s most beloved comedic actresses found her own little piece of heaven in Stamford, Connecticut.
