Cross the gated causeway to Caritas Island in Stamford, Connecticut, and discover a private haven where the lives of today’s elite intertwine with a rich history shaped by a legendary financier, a U.S. President, and a World War II spy raid.
This 3.5-acre private enclave, with 300-degree panoramic waterfront views, is owned by John Adams Morgan, a direct descendant of J.P. Morgan and John Adams.
Morgan’s life has been one of notable achievement, both as a successful banker and as an Olympic sailing champion. Now 94 years old, he is worth an estimated $500 million. Married five times, Morgan shares this remarkable property with his fifth wife, Connie Morgan, who is 35 years his junior. Describing the island, Connie notes, “It’s like living in a vacation home you never want to leave.”
A Waterfront Fortress
Located 140 Wallacks Drive, the island is anchored by a circa-1909 stone mansion (photos) with 20-inch-thick walls and a green slate roof, designed to withstand the challenges of a waterfront location. Thanks to a protective seawall and its durable construction, the home has reportedly never experienced weather-related damage.
The mansion features 12 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and eight fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The master suite offers his-and-her marble bathrooms and two dressing rooms, while a six-car detached garage includes two staff apartments above. The property also offers a stone guest cottage dating back to the 1870s.
For boating enthusiasts, the 200-foot pier with a 13-foot draft accommodates yachts up to 150 feet. Protected by a stone breakwater, this harbor is a rare and valuable amenity. The estate also includes a natural swimming cove and a sandy beach.
A Living Piece of History
Caritas Island is steeped in history. Originally built for the Phelps Stokes family, who were tied to the Phelps-Dodge mining fortune, the estate passed to the Gilbert family during the Great Depression. Notable moments in its history include a World War II FBI raid that uncovered German spies among the household staff.
The property’s historical significance extends beyond its architecture. In the front room of the mansion sits J.P. Morgan’s original mahogany desk, a relic from the financial crisis of 1895, when Morgan orchestrated a bailout of the U.S. Treasury.
Caritas Island is currently available for sale and asking $7,495,000 (as of 1/27/2025).
Cress is an innovative real estate advisory firm representing buyers and sellers of high-end properties throughout Fairfield County, CT and beyond. On the sell side, Cress delivers marketing-driven support designed to expand visibility and maximize outcomes. Through its co-listing model, Cress partners alongside listing agents to provide digital-first distribution, high-quality content creation, and proactive demand generation strategies that extend well beyond traditional MLS exposure.
On the buy side, Cress offers flat-fee representation and commission rebate programs that bring efficiency and transparency to luxury transactions while maintaining a high standard of service. Known for strategic insight, modern marketing execution, and deep local knowledge, Cress provides a smarter, more aligned approach to buying and selling real estate.
For more information, visit www.callcress.com.
Doug Cress
(212) 203-5251
doug@cress.co
License #RES.0832278
Fairfield County, CT
Enterprise Realty Inc.
License #REB.0751297
45 Huntington Plaza
Shelton, CT 06484
