How a Young Boy Saved a Town’s Landmark

This iconic red structure, often cited as the second most painted and photographed landscape in New England, is considered an iconic treasure of the town of Guilford, Connecticut.

The building has had quite a history and is a true survivor of the sometimes perilous weather conditions along the Connecticut shore. Originally a summer cottage for the Munroe family built in 1914, it was destroyed by a fire in 1936. The family rebuilt their beloved cottage in 1940 but decided 10 years later to relocate the building to higher ground away from the direct path of many seasonal storms and hurricanes.

The Town purchased the cottage and 7 acres in 1965 as a town park but over the years, the empty building began to decay and earned the name “Grass Island Shack”. Perhaps the best part of its story happened recently in 2015 when teenager John Markowski decided he wanted to restore the iconic landmark as his Eagle Scout project and thus began the one-year “Save the Shack” restoration.  Because of his dedication and the hard work of many volunteers, this iconic Connecticut landmark will be enjoyed for many years to come.

Just a side note – I’ve enjoyed photographing this site throughout the years. It always looks so different with the changing skies and weather conditions. It’s one of the many reasons I love photography!