Hammer joins William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

WASHINGTON DEPOT >> William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty today announced that Gael Hammer, a seasoned sales agent of over 31 years, has joined the firm and will be based in its Washington Depot brokerage.

A resident of Litchfield County for over 30 years, Hammer focuses on luxury properties throughout the region. He is particularly renowned for his expertise in both antique and mid-century homes.

“I can’t tell you how happy I am to have Gael on our team,” said Kristine Newell, regional manager of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty’s Washington Depot brokerage. “Between his passion for the industry, multiple award wins and immense local knowledge, Gael encompasses everything for which our company stands. He continually offers the highest level of service to his clients.”

“I am thrilled to be re-invigorated in my longstanding career with a fabulous company and dynamite regional manager,” said Hammer.

Prior to real estate, Hammer was greatly involved in theatre, earning his PhD from the University of Iowa in theatre history, dramatic arts and criticism. He was a tenured professor at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa where he helped plan and execute a major theatre building. He also served as chairman of Washington State University in Pullman. While there he was a national officer in the American College Theatre Festival held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. , and a gold medal award winner for his service. Following on the heels of his academic life he pursued an acting career in NYC.. appearing off Broadway, on soaps, and small movie roles. . Hammer relocated to Washington, Conn., in 1985, serving as the mainstay with his partner in the original re-birth of New Preston, Conn., from a run down village to the shopping mecca it is today. His partner ran a nationally known bookstore which specialized in antique garden books and prints.

Hammer is heavily involved in the local community, and is the originator of “Tea for Two Hundred,” a popular tradition in the town of Washington. Hosted by Hammer in his garden to benefit a number of charitable organizations, the annual summer event recently celebrated its 19th year. The net receipts for its 19 years is more than $1 million.

Hammer has two children, Katherine, a social worker in West Palm Beach, Fla., and Evelyn, an actress in New York City. His grandson, Calvin, is preparing for college.