17 River Lane in Westport, Connecticut, is a 6,588-square-foot, 6-bedroom, 6-bath stone mansion built in 1929. Inspired by Europe’s grand hunting lodges, it features old-world craftsmanship, a history of distinguished ownership, and even ties to Babe Ruth. The property is listed for sale at $5,850,000 (as of 3/5/2025).
A History of Art and Influence
Originally built for the Lowe family, the mansion has long been rumored to have hosted lavish parties. Babe Ruth is believed to have spent time at the home while visiting his close friend and former owner, Dr. Vito Caselnova. The Babe frequently played at Longshore Golf Club, and local accounts describe his generosity, from making breakfast for the Caselnova family to visiting injured firefighters and cheering up children at the hospital.
A more recent notable resident was Drew Friedman, a real estate developer and key figure in Westport’s arts community. He founded the Westport Downtown Merchants Association, and his legacy lives on through the Drew Friedman Community Arts Center.
Old-World Craftsmanship
This estate is approached through a stone gate tower leading to a motor court. The mansion’s exterior features hand-forged ironwork, leaded glass windows, and a slate roof—details rarely seen in modern construction.
Inside, Gothic-style arches lead to a foyer with intricate plaster ceilings and hand-hewn linen-fold wood paneling. The formal dining room, adorned with Tudor rose medallions, evokes an old-world banquet hall, while the living room, accessed through decorative iron gates, features a grand fireplace and a bow window that fills the space with natural light.
The library offers a cozy retreat with built-in bookshelves, a fireplace, and exposed hand-hewn beams. Two enclosed sunrooms—one at the rear and another off the living room—provide views of the landscaped grounds, which include gardens, a reflective pond, and a Gunite swimming pool with a waterfall.
Modern Comforts
While maintaining its historic charm, 17 River Lane has been updated for modern living. The remodeled kitchen blends contemporary conveniences with classic design. Updated mechanicals, remodeled bathrooms, and flexible spaces allow for multiple home offices or a guest suite.
A hidden Prohibition-era wine cellar adds a final touch of intrigue, making this estate a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and modern luxury.
Listing Agent: Alexander Chingas
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.
George Cress
(212) 203-5251
george@cress.co
License #RES.0832278
Fairfield County, CT
Enterprise Realty Inc.
License #REB.0751297
45 Huntington Plaza
Shelton, CT 06484
