Effort underway to save 103-year-old Greenwich family business following impending eviction
Inside the landmark white building, you’ll find relics from days gone by—an old refrigerator, radio and clock. But time is running out for the repair shop.
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On the corner of West Putnam Avenue and Prospect Street, sits a Greenwich institution: Freccia Brothers Garage.
“This garage was built from the ground up by my family in 1922. They came over from Italy,” Guinevere Freccia told News 12.
Inside the landmark white building, you’ll find relics from days gone by—an old refrigerator, radio and clock. But time is running out for the repair shop.
“Right now, we are facing a devastating eviction, and we are looking to relocate the business,” explained Guinevere Freccia, who’s the fifth generation of her family to work there.
Her father, Frank Freccia III, still does, operating the business with his daughter and her husband. Frank Freccia III started at the garage when he was ten, learning from his father, Frank “Skip” Freccia Jr. According to court records, his death in 2018 resulted in a family dispute over ownership of the building and a years-long legal battle with his wife, Theresa Freccia, that ended with an order to vacate.
“It's heartbreaking. It's one of the saddest things I've ever been through. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. This shop is full of memories, not only of cars we worked on, but growing up here, me and my siblings were here every single day after school,” Guinevere Freccia said. “It's more than just a business. A lot of family memories are wrapped up in these four walls.”
Most of the shop’s tools, equipment and cars have been moved out already.
The hope is they'll soon fill a new location.
“We do need help from the public. Any leads on spaces are greatly appreciated, funds to help us move,” Guinevere Freccia told News 12, adding that much of their money has gone to the legal fight.
The Freccias launched a GoFundMe campaign, with a goal of raising $250,000 to help preserve their history and continue their legacy.
“We originally started painting horse-drawn carriages and eventually evolved into being the air cold specialists,” Guinevere Freccia explained.
The shop became known for repairing Volkswagens, even drawing customers from beyond Connecticut’s borders.
“It's mostly the tri-state area, but people will call from Vermont, further up past Massachusetts. We've even gotten phone calls from Florida,” Guinevere Freccia said.
Over the years, the Freccias have given back to the community with holiday displays, toy drives and fundraisers for public initiatives. Now they're the ones who need help.
“We are hoping that, you know, karma and energy come back,” said Guinevere Freccia.
