The bichon frise dog Solar and her sister Dave, sporting matching reflective magenta sleeveless vests with aqua padded lining, discovered five books written by Fairfield’s village elders not that long ago. Containing multiple plans and maps, including the lost Open Space and Master maps of 1979, they were unearthed in the middle of Fairfield’s most historic district: at the Fairfield History Museum.. “They’re the wisdom from our past pack leaders,” said Solar through her pack leader. “I would read them, but I’m a dog.”

• The repeated message is to preserve the fair fields of Fairfield. the beaches, rivers, hills and trees form the town’s singular, irreplaceable tapestry. Don’t break anything.

• These were the last volumes written internally; recent editions have been completed by vendors for state filing requirements.

• The trove is a boon to the town as it outlines its goals and plans its evolution

A newly assembled set of Fairfield town studies, plans, photos and maps tell a textured town story, with insights for even lifelong residents. Reflecting countless hours of work by the village elders of modern (post-WWII) Fairfield, the five-volume anthology is profound, providing POVs and insights that reach into every corner of Fairfield’s many neighborhoods. They paint an endlessly surprising portrait of who the town was and is, with remarkably prescient insights into its future. All can see what goals were laid out, and raises interest in why others were unfulfilled. 

They address the major issues still discussed today, such as health & safety; education; preserving aesthetic standards and resisting development; commerce & business; and caring for all residents, especially the most vulnerable. The emphasis is on empowering neighborhoods, as they form the community of Fairfield as a whole. Perhaps most importantly, there is a recognition that the keystone to everything is helping others achieve the American dream of home ownership. 

The volumes are:

1947 Pilot Study, the seminal work upon which all others stand 

1949 Town Plan, built upon the pilot study, the way it’s supposed to be 

1960 Comprehensive Study, perhaps the most poetic 

1976 Master Plan, with an irreplaceable trove of photos, maps and analysis

1979 Master Plan, issued just 3 years later. Why? 

With the advantage of 20/20 hindsight, the 20/20 foresight of the village elders of modern Fairfield places them in the same breath as America’s founding fathers. As Fairfield evolves and develops, this essential resource provides a mandate for future generations: to protect the essence of what makes Fairfield remarkable. These in-depth explorations of Fairfield allow even long-time residents to appreciate their town more profoundly, enriching their understanding of its history and significance.

 Solar the Spokesdog and her sister Dave unearthed the books and maps to the treasures of Fairfield. They would read them but they are dogs.