Ridgefield’s community center was originally built to be the residence of Governor Phineas C. Lounsbury in 1893, and was called "Grovelawn". In its time, the house coveted many luxurious features such as a windmill, a green house, a private water supply, a bowling alley, and much more. Fourteen people were hired to care for the mansion and twelve to care for the grounds.

Today it is known as the Community Center and was organized by the Ridgefield Veterans Memorial Community Association in 1953. The Association was given a lease for the property for a 25-year period at one dollar a year. The building was then refurbished, repainted and furnished to make it suitable to conduct town activities in. The next year a recreational director was appointed

The facilities are available to Ridgefield residents who possess individual or family memberships. Many study courses are offered such as Italian, golf, cooking, writing, dog training, and sewing. Other activities include a chorus, a workshop, a rifle club, a drama club, and a Toy Clinic. Some activities for youths include ballet, socials, a nursery for younger children, and a "Teen-Age Canteen" for the older children. The center is also available to be rented out by residents for private parties, clubs, and other social engagements.

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