Sterling House is one the architectural gems of Stratford. The Romanesque-style mansion, registered in the National…More Registry of Historic Homes and built by architect Bruce Price of New York, was built on Main Street in 1886 by John Sterling, whose family was among Stratford's oldest and richest.</p> <p>The mansion was donated by the Sterling family to the town of Stratford in 1931 during the Great Depression with the stipulation that it be used as a community center. The property has since been held in trust by the town. In addition to its unique architectural features, the grounds at Sterling House were designed by the famed New York City Central Park landscape designer Frederick Law Olmstead.</p> <p>Today, a variety of community services are offered at Sterling House, including programs for youths and adults, recreational activities, a child development center and a summer youth program. Sterling House also has a food bank.</p> <p>Sterling House derives its funding from several sources, including contributions, fundraising and special events (35%), fees and dues (52%), support from the town of Stratford (11%) and rental/other (2%). </p>