$1.5 Million Vivian Vance House in Stamford, Connecticut

Vivian Vance, the beloved actress best known for her role as Ethel Mertz on the iconic sitcom “I Love Lucy,” once called a charming house in Stamford, Connecticut, her home. This article delves into the life of Vivian Vance and explores the details of her residence, offering a glimpse into the private world of one of television’s most cherished stars. From its cozy interiors to its picturesque surroundings, the Vivian Vance house stands as a testament to the actress’s taste and the era in which she lived.

Let’s start a journey to discover the place Vivian Vance called home during her later years, and uncover the stories hidden within its walls.

Who is Vivian Vance?

Vivian Vance was an American actress and comedian who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born on July 26, 1909, in Cherryvale, Kansas, Vance rose to fame through her unforgettable portrayal of Ethel Mertz on the groundbreaking sitcom “I Love Lucy.” Her comedic timing and chemistry with Lucille Ball made her a household name and earned her critical acclaim, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1954[3].

Throughout her career, Vance accumulated a modest fortune compared to today’s Hollywood standards. While exact figures are hard to come by, her net worth at the time of her death in 1979 was estimated to be around $10 million when adjusted for inflation. This wealth came primarily from her television work, particularly her long-running roles on “I Love Lucy” and later on “The Lucy Show.”

Vance wasn’t known for extravagant displays of wealth. She owned a comfortable home in Stamford, Connecticut, where she spent her later years. Unlike some of her contemporaries, there are no records of Vance owning multiple properties, yachts, private islands, or jets. Her lifestyle seemed to reflect her down-to-earth personality, focusing on her craft and personal life rather than material possessions.

Vivian Vance at a Glance

Where Does Vivian Vance Live Now?

Vivian Vance passed away on August 17, 1979, in Belvedere, California, after a battle with breast and bone cancer[3]. However, during her later years, she primarily resided in Stamford, Connecticut. Stamford, a vibrant city on the Long Island Sound, offered Vance a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling entertainment scene of New York City.

Stamford is known for its picturesque landscapes, combining the charm of New England with modern urban amenities. The city boasts beautiful parks, a thriving downtown area, and easy access to the coast. Vance’s decision to settle in Stamford reflected her desire for a quieter life away from the Hollywood spotlight while still maintaining connections to the entertainment world.

The exact location of Vance’s home in Stamford is not publicly disclosed to protect the privacy of current residents. However, we can imagine it nestled in one of Stamford’s lovely neighborhoods, perhaps with views of the Long Island Sound or surrounded by the lush greenery that characterizes much of Connecticut’s landscape.

Vivian Vance House

The Vivian Vance house in Stamford, Connecticut, was a reflection of the actress’s personality – warm, inviting, and unpretentious. While specific details about the property are limited due to privacy concerns, we can paint a picture based on typical homes in the area and what we know about Vance’s lifestyle.

Stamford’s residential architecture often blends traditional New England styles with more modern influences. Vance’s home was likely a single-family dwelling, possibly a colonial or Cape Cod-style house, which are common in the region. These styles typically feature symmetrical facades, pitched roofs, and classic proportions that exude timeless charm.

The house probably dates back to the mid-20th century, as many homes in Stamford were built during the post-war boom. It’s likely that Vance and her husband, John Dodds, made some renovations to suit their tastes and needs when they moved in during the 1960s.

Inside, the home would have been a comfortable retreat for Vance, away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. It’s easy to imagine cozy living spaces where she could relax and entertain close friends, perhaps with a fireplace as a focal point – perfect for Connecticut’s chilly winters.

Features of Vivian Vance House

While we don’t have exact details of Vivian Vance’s house, we can infer some features based on typical homes in Stamford from that era:

• Traditional New England architecture, possibly Colonial or Cape Cod style
• Two stories, providing ample living space
• Wooden clapboard or shingle siding, painted in a classic color
• Symmetrical facade with a centered front door
• Multi-pane windows allow plenty of natural light
• Pitched roof, possibly with dormers
• Attached garage, common in homes of that period
• Brick or stone chimney, suggesting a fireplace inside
• Shutters on the windows add to the classic New England look
• A covered porch or portico at the entrance
• Hardwood floors throughout much of the interior
• Crown molding and other traditional architectural details
• Possibly some custom built-ins, like bookshelves or window seats
• Updated kitchen and bathrooms, likely renovated during Vance’s residency
• Basement, common in New England homes for additional storage and utilities

Personal House Touches

Vivian Vance likely added personal touches to make her house a home:

• Framed photographs from her career, including “I Love Lucy” cast photos
• Her Emmy Award displayed in a prominent location
• Comfortable, classic furniture suited to entertaining friends
• Artwork reflecting her taste, possibly including pieces from her travels
• A collection of books, perhaps with a focus on theater and comedy
• Memorabilia from her Broadway days
• Cozy throw blankets and pillows for Connecticut’s cool seasons
• Family heirlooms and personal mementos
• A piano or other musical instrument, given her background in musical theater
• Houseplants or fresh flowers to bring life to the interiors
• Warm, inviting color scheme throughout the home
• Personal photographs of friends and family
• Possibly some Lucy-themed items gifted by fans or fellow cast members
• A well-equipped kitchen for home cooking and entertaining

House Amenities

Vivian Vance’s Stamford home likely included a range of amenities typical for a comfortable mid-century residence:

Indoor Amenities:

1. Spacious living room with a fireplace
2. Formal dining room for entertaining
3. Updated kitchen with modern appliances
4. Master bedroom suite with private bathroom
5. Guest bedrooms for visiting friends and family
6. Home office or study for reviewing scripts
7. Laundry room with washer and dryer
8. Full basement for storage and utilities
9. Central heating system
10. Possibly central air conditioning, if updated

Outdoor Amenities:

1. Landscaped front yard with mature trees
2. Private backyard for relaxation
3. Patio or deck for outdoor entertaining
4. Garden area for flowers or vegetables
5. Driveway with attached garage
6. Possibly a small water feature or fountain
7. Outdoor lighting for evening ambiance
8. Storage shed for gardening tools
9. Fencing for privacy and security
10. Possibly a barbecue area for summer cookouts

Neighbourhood Area

Stamford, Connecticut, where Vivian Vance made her home, is a city that beautifully balances urban amenities with suburban charm. The neighborhood where Vance resided was likely one of Stamford’s more established areas, characterized by tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. These neighborhoods often feature a mix of architectural styles, from classic New England Colonials to more modern designs, creating a diverse and visually interesting streetscape.

The area would have provided Vance with a sense of community while still offering the privacy that a celebrity of her stature might desire. Stamford’s neighborhoods are known for their friendly atmosphere, where neighbors often know each other and community events are common. This would have suited Vance’s down-to-earth personality and allowed her to enjoy a more normal life away from the Hollywood spotlight.

Stamford’s location on the Long Island Sound means that many neighborhoods have easy access to waterfront areas. While we don’t know if Vance’s home had water views, she would have been able to enjoy the coastal beauty of the region with just a short drive. The city’s parks and green spaces, such as Cove Island Park or Bartlett Arboretum, would have provided lovely spots for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The neighborhood would have been conveniently located in Stamford’s downtown area, which has long been a hub of activity. Here, Vance would have had access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The Stamford Town Center mall, various theaters, and numerous restaurants would have all been within easy reach.

Market Value

The market value of Vivian Vance’s house in Stamford, Connecticut, has likely changed significantly since her time there. While we don’t have exact figures, we can provide an estimate based on typical homes in the area and real estate trends:

1. Build Year: Likely mid-20th century, possibly 1950s or 1960s
2. Purchase Year: Early 1960s, when Vance moved to Stamford with her husband John Dodds
3. Purchase Value: Estimated $30,000 to $50,000 (based on average home prices in the 1960s)
4. Current Estimated Value: Approximately $1.5 million (as of 2023)

It’s important to note that these figures are estimates and the actual value could vary based on specific location, size, condition, and improvements made to the property over the years. Stamford’s real estate market has seen significant appreciation since the 1960s, particularly in desirable neighborhoods.

The substantial increase in value reflects not only general inflation and real estate trends but also Stamford’s growth as a desirable suburb of New York City. The city’s development as a corporate center and its continued appeal as a residential area have contributed to rising property values over the decades.

Vivian Vance Houses Portfolio

While Vivian Vance is most closely associated with her home in Stamford, Connecticut, she lived in various locations throughout her life and career. Here’s an overview of her known residences:

1. Cherryvale and Independence, Kansas:
   • Vance spent her early years in these Kansas towns
   • Her family home would have been modest, typical of early 20th-century Midwestern residences
2. Albuquerque, New Mexico:
   • Vance moved here as a young adult to pursue her acting career
   • She likely rented apartments or rooms during this period
3. New York City, New York:
   • When Vance moved to study acting under Eva Le Gallienne in the early 1930s
   • Probably lived in rented apartments in theater districts
4. Los Angeles, California:
   • During her time filming “I Love Lucy” and other Hollywood projects
   • Likely owned or rented a home in the Los Angeles area
5. Stamford, Connecticut:
   • Vance’s primary residence from the 1960s until she died in 1979
   • A single-family home in a suburban neighborhood
6. Belvedere, California:
   • Vance spent her final days here, possibly in a medical facility or a relative’s home

Throughout her career, Vance’s living situations reflected her journey from a small-town girl to a Broadway actress, to a television star, and finally to a retired performer seeking a quieter life. Her choice to settle in Stamford in her later years suggests a preference for a more relaxed lifestyle away from the entertainment industry’s hustle and bustle, while still maintaining proximity to New York City’s cultural offerings.

Conclusion

The Vivian Vance house in Stamford, Connecticut, is more than just a structure of wood and stone. It’s a symbol of a beloved actress’s life beyond the screen, a piece of television history, and a reflection of mid-20th century American domestic life. While its estimated value of $1.5 million speaks to its material worth, the true value of the home lies in its connection to Vivian Vance and the joy she brought to millions of viewers.

As we consider the legacy of Vivian Vance and her Stamford home, we’re reminded of the power of place in shaping our lives and memories. Whether it’s the house where a famous actress lived or our own childhood homes, these spaces hold a special place in our hearts and in our cultural consciousness.

The Vivian Vance house stands as a quiet tribute to a woman who made us laugh, who showed us the value of friendship, and who, in her personal life, sought the simple pleasures of home and community. It’s a reminder that behind every famous face is a real person, with real needs for comfort, privacy, and a place to call home.