54 Bellevue Ave, Bristol, CT 06010

Beleden, the elegant brownstone mansion constructed for William E. Sessions, is one of the finest examples of high-style domestic architecture in Connecticut and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A Second Renaissance Revival home in the Italian manner, Beleden is constructed of Kibbe brownstone, a hard stone quite different from the soft brownstone commonly used in residential construction. The front facade is dominated by a half-round, ionic tetrastyle portico of white marble, with sways and volutes that feature a pineapple motif. Designed by architect Samuel Brown of Boston, Beleden was once the centerpiece of a large estate requiring the services of a staff of 18. Beleden is U-shaped in plan, with an additional service wing to the north; at the center of the U is the palm court to the rear. The interior is richly detailed with elaborate classical elements and the finest materials Tennessee marble floors, gilded ceilings and carved wainscoting. The library has wainscoting of Honduras mahogany, gold leaf wall stenciling and a fireplace of gold and black Egyptian marble. The most impressive space however is the music room with its Estey pipe organ, semi-elliptical balcony and elaborated carvings, some of which disguise openings to echo chambers in the attic. For all of its elaborate classicism, Beleden was technologically advanced for its time; it was constructed with steel beams and concrete floors, contained its own water filtration and central vacuuming systems and had a telephone in each room. Though Beleden has lost almost all of its former grounds, it remains a residence of singular grace and beauty. (From "Federal Hill" written by C. Hourihan). The first floor of Beleden is comprised of formal and informal living spaces. The Great Hall measures 28'6" x 17'6" with pink Tennessee marble flooring, Pavonazza marble dado, exceptionally detailed millwork and canvas ceilings with gilded stenciling. To the right are a Reception Room and Parlor (2