Marines Scrub Veterans' Monument at Lounsbury House

A crew of Marine Corps veterans took time off recently to restore the luster of one of Ridgefield's most cherished monuments, the Veterans' Memorial at Lounsbury House.

Using stiff brushes, special cleaner for stone and lots of elbow grease, the Marines scrubbed the monument that honors those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. They also spiffed up other monuments plaques and benches in the park area that fronts the legendary mansion.

"It was a natural for us and the kind of project we hope to continue for Lounsbury House," said Robin Montgomery, who was one of the workers and who is Commandant of the Marine Veterans of Fairfield County. "The Mansion and its staff have supported veterans since it opened to visitors on Memorial Day in 1954. We will always do what we can to help."

Suzanne Brennan, executive director of the Mansion, said she was delighted with the project and noted that it is part of the wide-spread community support Lounsbury House enjoys. "As an example, the Caudatowa Garden Club visits frequently in the summer months to maintain the Memorial Park Garden that surrounds the monuments," she said. "We have significant frontage on Main Street which offers great visibility for the House and for the veteran's memorials."

The Marine Veterans of Fairfield County has a 40-year history of community service including high school scholarships, suport of a little league baseball team, participation in community activities on Memorial and Veterans Day and organization of the county-wide Toys for Tots program during the Christmas season.

Learn more about Lounsbury House here.

Photo credits: Dick Truitt