Our History
The Arlington Community House, historically known as the Smith-Canfield House, is a prominent Federal-style brick building on Route 7A that has served as a central gathering place for Arlington, Sandgate, and Sunderland since 1947.
The building was built in 1829, then purchased in 1848 by Reverend Eli Canfield. It was later inherited by author and social activist Dorothy Canfield Fisher from her aunt, Martha Canfield. In the mid-1900s, Fisher deeded the house to the community to ensure a permanent meeting space for local organizations and community growth. Used during World Wars for local initiatives, it also formerly housed the Martha Canfield Library before its move in 1996. Famous artist Norman Rockwell, a local resident, held sketching classes for young people here.
Our Mission
To maintain and oversee the Arlington Community House and its use as a safe and attractive space for charitable, educational and recreational activities.
Community Feedback
"Kudos to the board that keeps this house well maintained. It adds to the beauty of our town. The Arlington Garden Club keeps the outside looking nice.
Arlington Pride on display!
Vicki
"Thank you so much for the use of this wonderful space for our family event. This community is so very fortunate to have such a refined h for our town's use."
Kevin
"Thank you so much for the use of this wonderful space for our family event. This community is so very fortunate to have such a refined hiostorical gem for our town's use."
Kevin
Get in Touch
Feel free to contact us for any inquiries or to learn more about our projects, annual events or to reserve a space for your next meeting.