The first writers in residence came to the James Merrill House 25 years ago, shortly after James Merrill’s death in 1995. Since then, over 85 writers have visited, staying in his home, now a National Historic Landmark, to work on projects of their own. Thanks to Merrill's generosity, the house now belongs to the Stonington Village Improvement Association and is an ongoing inspiration for writers and poets from around the world.