154 E Grand Ave, New Haven, CT 06513

When first built in 1876, the Victorian Gothic house was one of three show pieces that graced the highest ridge of Fair Haven Heights . The house was built by Dr. Mary Blair Moody, the first female to practice medicine in the New Haven area. In 1915, the house's second owner, Albert Haasis, a chemist and executive of the Dixon Pencil Company named the house "Chetstone." Passionate about art and horticulture, he kept lavish gardens replete with peacocks and filled the house with artwork, including an attic full of whimsical rabbit paintings, reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. In its 138-year history, Chetstone has only had five owners and as a result has retained its architectural integrity and excellence: from its brownstone foundation and cistern pump in the cellar, to original trim, moldings, doors and working gas lamps throughout. Additional historic features include: double parlors with a pocket door, built in bookshelves, marble-topped vanities in three of its bedrooms, inlaid hard wood floors, a wrap-around porch replete with gothic detail, a tower room, two marble fire places (one fitted with an antique gas insert ) and a full-size, wood and rope elevator (still in working condition).