Connecticut's Colossal Secret: The Chase Mansion Unveiled

West Hartford's Hidden Gem: Exploring the Chase Mansion, Connecticut's Largest Home Nestled in West Hartford, Connecticut, lies a hidden architectural marvel: the Chase Mansion. This 50,000-square-foot Georgian Colonial, built by telecom investor Arnold Chase, is not only the largest private residence in Connecticut but also a fascinating example of unique design and historical significance. While the above-ground structure is impressive, it's the mansion's subterranean levels that truly capture the imagination. Nearly two-thirds of the home's square footage lies beneath the surface, housing a 100-seat theater, a palatial game room, and a rare collection of orchestrions—intricate mechanical music machines from the pre-radio era. These orchestrions, a testament to Mr. Chase's passion for historical artifacts, are a unique feature rarely found in private residences. "The sheer scale of the underground space is breathtaking," says Doug Cress of Enterprise Realty, who shared details about the property. "It's a testament to the vision and resources of its creator." The Chase Mansion stands in stark contrast to other large homes in the US, such as the Biltmore Estate. While impressive, the Chase Mansion is only a quarter of the Biltmore Estate's size, showcasing a more intimate, yet equally luxurious, scale. This makes the Chase Mansion a compelling case study in architectural design and historical preservation in Connecticut.