Ziegler Family's Century-Old Island on Sale for $35 Million

For countless families, vacationing on a private island is just a dream, but for the descendants of industrial magnate William Ziegler Sr., this dream was a part of real life.

More than a century ago, the illustrious Ziegler family purchased Hay Island—an 18-acre expanse of land just off Connecticut's coast. It comes with a sweeping 8,684-square-foot colonial-style home characteristic of New England, complete with a two-bedroom guest house, an infinity pool, and a pair of pristine beaches.

Initially serving as a summer retreat, the island more recently became a permanent dwelling. However, with family members dispersed across various parts of the United States, maintaining the island became unnecessary. Thus, the family has decided to put Hay Island up for sale with a price tag of $35 million.

History of Ownership on Hay Island

Hay Island has been in the hands of the Ziegler family for well over 100 years, a legacy beginning with William Ziegler Sr., who accumulated significant wealth in the late 19th century through the founding of the Royal Baking Powder Company.

Modernized Dwellings by the Water

In 2010, the current residence was erected, showcasing a sophisticated design by architect Austin Patterson Disston. Before its construction, an older structure served as a seasonal haven for the family. The property now showcases an imposing six-bedroom, seven-bathroom main house.

Luxurious Features and Scenic Views

Most rooms within the home offer picturesque vistas of the Long Island Sound. The living areas are adorned with custom amenities, including a welcoming family room adjacent to a screened porch, a library with bespoke bookshelves and a wet bar, and a chef's kitchen that enjoys copious natural light through windows overlooking the water.

Family Selling Final Connecticut Island

Having relocated to other regions, the Ziegler family no longer makes frequent use of their Connecticut estate. This island thus marks the final piece in their collection of Connecticut properties to be sold, following the recent sale of Great Island across the cove to the town of Darien for $85 million, with plans to convert it into a public park.

Real estate agent Leslie McElwreath of Sotheby's International Realty's Greenwich office manages the listing for this exquisite property on Hay Island.

Recreational Spaces and Additional Facilities

The estate includes two generous beaches flanked by scenic rocky shores. A luxuriant infinity pool gazes out over the Long Island Sound, while the outdoor terrace is equipped with an external fireplace and barbecue setup. Moreover, a two-bedroom guest residence contributes additional living space, offering its own fully stocked kitchen and a private office.