The Storied History and Recent Revival of 1143 Sasco Hill Road

Nestled along Connecticut’s prestigious Gold Coast, the historic mansion at 1143 Sasco Hill Road in Fairfield combines timeless elegance with breathtaking views of Sasco Beach and the Long Island Sound. Recently purchased by Supernatural star Jensen Ackles, the property begins an exciting new chapter in its storied history.

The Riegel Family’s Vision in the 1920s

In 1923, renowned architect Henry C. Pelton, celebrated for his designs of Manhattan’s Riverside Church and The Cloisters, created this Elizabethan Renaissance-style manor house for Benjamin DeWitt Riegel and his wife.

Riegel, a prominent mill owner and businessman, was drawn to Fairfield by his professional network and became a founding member of the Fairfield Country Club. For decades, the mansion stood as a private retreat for the Riegel family, embodying the grandeur of the Gold Coast.

The home spans an impressive 19,000 square feet across four stories and boasts over 30 rooms, including nine bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. Notable features include a library, wine-tasting room, grand ballroom, home theater, and a basement recreation area. An elevator provides access to all floors, including the third floor’s gym, study, and game room.

Rich millwork, oversized windows, and 11 fireplaces add to the mansion’s character and warmth. Outside, the estate is surrounded by immaculately landscaped grounds and includes a six-car garage.

In 1997, Katherine Riegel Emory, the daughter of the original owners, ensured the estate’s preservation by granting a conservation easement to the Aspetuck Land Trust. This effort protected nearly 2,000 feet of shoreline, preserving the natural beauty of the property and safeguarding it as one of the last undeveloped stretches along the Connecticut coastline.

The Jack Family and the Estate’s Modern History

In 2001, Lehman Brothers financier Brad Jack and his then-wife Karin acquired the property for $24.5 million. Over the years, the prestigious Sasco Hill neighborhood became synonymous with exclusivity, attracting prominent figures such as playwright Noel Coward and former General Electric CEO Jack Welch.

After their divorce in 2008, Brad Jack relocated to Westport, where he faced legal troubles and was placed on probation for forging pain medication prescriptions. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 60 due to complications from pancreatic cancer.

The estate saw its market trajectory change when it was listed for $62 million in 2013, a year after the town of Fairfield placed it on an auction list for unpaid property taxes. For several years, the property remained on and off the market.

In 2021, financier Marc Lasry paid $17.5 million for the 20-acre property. Fairfield approved a subdivision of the estate into seven lots, each exceeding two acres. A limited liability company was established to manage the main mansion and its parcels, all of which have since been sold.

A Supernatural Twist

In July 2023, Supernatural star Jensen Ackles and his wife Danneel purchased the refurbished mansion for $9.375 million. Ackles, famous for his 15-season portrayal of Dean Winchester, brings a supernatural connection to the property. The series frequently referenced ghostly lore, including legends from Connecticut. Beyond Supernatural, Ackles is known for his standout role as Soldier Boy in Amazon’s The Boys.