The industry, business ethic, community investment, private philanthropy and cultural patronage of the Cheney Brothers and their families are models of national cultural and historical significance. The surviving buildings, site and surviving historic evidence document these valuable community assets as true National Landmarks which have community, statewide and national significance.

The Phillip Cheney house is also of national cultural and historical significance. It is unique among surviving Charles A. Platt designed houses because of its collection of two hundred eighty architectural drawings made by chief designer Albert C. Cass during its design and construction.

The story of this historic legacy and its owners and stewards is also of national interest and should recognize their creativity, leadership and obligations to protecting its history and architecture. Publications, exhibitions, catalogs and articles should be developed to bring this unique Connecticut resource to the attention of scholars and professionals, to the public and to posterity.

Anthony G. Viscogliosi, an investment banker and expert in the orthopedic sector of the healthcare industry, purchased the Philip Cheney mansion in June 2003, and three additional homes and surrounding acreage in September 2003.

“My goal is to preserve and protect this historical and architectural treasure, and help restore it to its former magnificence.” As an example, “the original Charles Platt blueprints will be meticulously followed in restoring the Philip Cheney mansion,” Mr. Viscogliosi said.
Some preliminary work has already been done on the majestic home. The existing structure has been analyzed inside and out identifying all existing conditions, original finishes and features which will be preserved or replicated as part of the total restoration project. An example is the recently completed new slate roof which reuses many of the original slates. This work was undertaken by ‘Silktown Roofing, Inc.’, a Manchester company. In addition to restoring the architectural features and original finishes, plans include the restoration of the original landscaping and gardens, some elements of which date back over 150 years.

The Viscogliosi House
(former Philip Cheney House)
Manchester, CT
Anthony G. Viscogliosi
Completion Winter 2006