By Tyler R. Morrissey
These days it can be hard to find a direct connection to Colonial America. Long gone through the sands of time are the decedents of the founding families of Connecticut. However on Hathaway Road in East Lyme, there is a historic property that links present day New London County to its humble beginnings before the Revolutionary War.
The 142-acre property resides on the banks of Lake Pattagansett, a 128-acre freshwater lake. Old Lyme agent Tony Walstra represents the listing, which is offered for $2,890,000.
Nearly 300 years ago the King of England, George I, granted this property in Southeastern, Conn., to a man named Solomon Gee. Solomon was born in England in 1698 and eventually made his home in Connecticut after serving in the Royal Navy. Solomon became a clothier by trade before he passed away in April of 1769, seven years before the founding of America. The land has been in the Gee family since the royal deed was granted by King George I, and generations of Gees have lived and worked on the property since the early 1700s.
Once known as Pattagansett Farm, the parcel borders the Yale Outdoor Education Center and is located near Scott Road. The land features 20-plus acres of water frontage along the lake, which offers aquatic activities such as fishing, boating and bird watching. Along the property there are also hiking trails, green pastures and beautiful stonewalls.
“It is very rare these days to find any property, let alone one this large, that has not changed hands since Colonial times,” said Walstra. “It’s time for fresh roots to be planted and new memories to be made amidst the peace and beauty of this very special land. This parcel will make an excellent place for its new owner to build the home of their dreams. I am very proud to represent this historic listing in this fantastic shoreline community.”
For more information: Tony Walstra, 860.460.8825, twalstra@williampitt.com
