Starling Childs Camp

Starling Childs Camp is a distinguished historic cottage located on the serene southern shores of Doolittle Lake in Norfolk, Connecticut. Built in 1923, this architectural gem is recognized not only for its breathtaking lakeside setting but also for its significant design by the renowned architect Alfredo S.G. Taylor. As part of the prestigious National Register of Historic Places since 1982, the camp represents a unique chapter in Connecticut’s architectural history, blending idiosyncratic design with the rustic, natural beauty of the Litchfield Hills. For those looking to understand the heritage of summer retreats in New England, Starling Childs Camp stands as a premier example of early 20th-century craftsmanship and leisure.

The cottage was originally commissioned by Starling W. Childs, a prominent figure in the development of the Great Mountain Forest and a pioneer in local conservation efforts. Today, the camp remains a symbol of the "exclusive summer colony" era that transformed Norfolk into a highly sought-after destination for those seeking refuge from urban life. The structure itself is a 1.5-story frame building set upon a robust fieldstone foundation, a hallmark of Taylor’s "rustic" style. Its location on Doolittle Lake ensures a peaceful environment, as the lake is strictly protected to preserve its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere, making it one of the most pristine bodies of water in the state of Connecticut.

Location and accessibility are central to the experience at Starling Childs Camp. Tucked away on the private shores of Doolittle Lake in Norfolk, CT 06058, the property is accessed via secluded private roads that wind through dense forests and rolling hills. While the camp feels worlds away from the hustle of modern life, it is conveniently located within the Northwest Hills of Connecticut, roughly a 45-minute drive from Hartford and about two and a half hours from New York City. This proximity makes it a favorite for regional travelers who appreciate the cooler temperatures and lush greenery of the Litchfield region.

The site is designed to be accessible while maintaining its historic integrity. Visitors and residents can enjoy on-site parking and clear pathways that lead to the lakefront. Because Doolittle Lake is a private community, accessibility is carefully managed to ensure the privacy and security of the surrounding properties. The nearby town of Norfolk offers essential amenities, including charming local diners, cultural venues like the Norfolk Library, and various hiking trails that connect to the Great Mountain Forest, providing a comprehensive outdoor experience for those visiting the area.

Starling Childs Camp, as a historic private residence and part of the Doolittle Lake community, is associated with a range of services designed to enhance the lakeside lifestyle. These offerings reflect a commitment to conservation and the quiet enjoyment of the natural landscape.

• Architectural Preservation: The property is maintained according to historic standards to preserve the idiosyncratic work of Alfredo S.G. Taylor.
• Private Lake Access: Residents and guests have exclusive access to the motor-free waters of Doolittle Lake, ideal for swimming and quiet contemplation.
• Watercraft Support: Use of non-motorized boats such as canoes and kayaks is supported, aligning with the lake's environmental protection policies.
• Forest Management: Being adjacent to the Great Mountain Forest, the area benefits from professional conservation services that protect local wildlife and flora.
• Seasonal Maintenance: The cottage and grounds are cared for to withstand the varied Connecticut seasons, ensuring the fieldstone and wood structures remain sound.
• Community Integration: Part of an exclusive homeowner network that shares resources for road maintenance and lake water quality monitoring.

The features and highlights of Starling Childs Camp are deeply tied to its historical significance and its unique physical design. Every element of the property was crafted to harmonize with the rugged terrain of the Litchfield Hills, creating an aesthetic that is both sophisticated and grounded.

• National Register of Historic Places Listing: A recognized site of historical importance since 1982.
• Alfredo Taylor Design: Features the architect's signature "rustic" style, including rounded-arch openings and a pierced balustrade on the upper porch.
• Rubble Fieldstone Foundation: A full-height foundation that provides a dramatic, sturdy base integrated into the hillside.
• Pristine Waterfront Frontage: Direct access to the south shore of Doolittle Lake, known as one of the cleanest lakes in New England.
• Proximity to Great Mountain Forest: Bordering over 6,000 acres of protected woodland, offering unparalleled privacy and hiking opportunities.
• Historic Porch Views: A broad lakeside porch designed specifically for viewing the sunset across the water.
• Inclusive Design Elements: Features such as wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances that respect the property’s heritage while accommodating modern needs.

For those interested in the architectural history of the region or the legacy of the Childs family in Connecticut conservation, Starling Childs Camp is a primary point of interest. Please note that while the site is a significant historic landmark, it is located within a private residential area on Doolittle Lake.

Address: Doolittle Lake, Norfolk, CT 06058, USA

Contact: For information regarding the history of the site, please contact the Norfolk Historical Society.

What is worth choosing about Starling Childs Camp and the surrounding Norfolk area is the rare opportunity to experience "Old New England" in its most authentic form. In an age of rapid development, the Doolittle Lake community has successfully maintained a strict "no-motor" policy and high conservation standards that have kept the water and air as fresh as they were a century ago. Choosing to explore or stay in this region means choosing a lifestyle of quiet dignity, architectural beauty, and a deep respect for the natural world. The Starling Childs Camp is more than just a cottage; it is a testament to the vision of a family that helped save the Connecticut forest for future generations.

Furthermore, the Litchfield Hills offer a cultural richness that complements the outdoor lifestyle. From the world-class performances at the Yale Summer School of Music in Norfolk to the local art galleries and farmers' markets, the area provides a sophisticated backdrop for a lakeside retreat. The combination of historical significance, professional architectural design, and the pristine environment of Doolittle Lake makes Starling Childs Camp one of the most unique and valuable assets in the Connecticut landscape. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or someone simply seeking the restorative power of the Connecticut woods, the legacy of the Childs family and Alfredo Taylor offers an experience that is truly second to none.