By Tyler R. Morrissey
Every home tells a story. Some of these tales are as old as the nation itself. From centuries-old Colonial estates to architecturally significant designer homes to time-honored national landmarks, historic properties are as diverse and unique as the owners they attract. In New England as well as New York, many homes still evoke the times and traditions of yesteryear, while providing must-have modern amenities for today’s modern lifestyle. For those who seek a home with charm and character of the past, these offerings will transport you back to the early days of America.
117 Cove Rd – Lyme, Conn.
The year was 1754. The French and Indian War had just begun and the storm clouds of the Revolutionary War were starting to gather over the 13 British North American colonies. Also in 1754, this charming Colonial home was built in Lyme, Conn. Known locally as the Ebenezer Russell house, after a private in the Revolution, this 2,816 square-foot residence is located in one of the most convenient and desired locations in all of Lyme. Surrounded by fine luxury properties up and down Cove Rd, this home has a rare two-bay attached garage, central air conditioning, five fireplaces and an updated kitchen. Its location is close to Old Lyme Village, I-95, local marinas and some of the region’s finest dining options.
For more information: Byron Lazine, 860.941.2755, blazine@williampitt.com
22 Ford Road – Westport, Conn.
Built in 1850, this charming home in Westport is from in an era when America consisted of just 31 states. The historic property was originally associated with a local grist mill across the road before the land was purchased by the Dorr Company. It was then used as a guest home for the well-known waste-handling company. The 2,060 square-foot home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and resides on one acre of land. Original beams and wide-plank floorboards are complemented with an updated kitchen and bathrooms. This home also has two fireplaces including one in the master bedroom and lots of potential storage space. Fishing and access to Aspetuck Land Trust is just across the street and a canoe launch is a block away.
For more information: Joan Wright, 203.227.1246, jwright@williampitt.com
76 North Broadway – Irvington, N.Y.
Also constructed in 1850 is a Gothic Revival style house on 1.94 acres at 76 North Broadway in Irvington. The home is a 10-minute walk from the former residence of famed writer Washington Irvington, who inspired Irvington’s namesake. John Thomas, the first owner of the home met a tragic fate. Under the ownership of John Earle Williams, president of the Metropolitan Bank of New York, the home gained the moniker Strawberry Hill Manor in the 1860s. An enticing tower and gables pierced with arched Gothic windows introduce you to the original details that can be found throughout this 11-bedroom home. You are beckoned to imagine these grand rooms with 12 foot high ceilings as a drawing room, main and children’s dining rooms, parlor, studio, library, billiard room and card room.
For more information: Frances Fran O’ Toole, 914.295.3511, fran.otoole@juliabfee.com
907 Norfolk Rd – New Marlborough, Mass.
At the time of the construction of Adams Farm in 1760, King George III took the throne in the United Kingdom and would lose his North American colonies in 16 years’ time. This beautiful country estate is located only minutes from the acclaimed Southfield Store and downtown Norfolk, Conn. Adams Farm’s first known owners were Aaron Adams and his wife, Betsey Smith, who were married on December 6, 1792 in the First Church of New Marlborough. The fireplace face stone displays the original hand engraving of the names Smith and Adams. Aaron Adams’ grandfather, Joseph Adams was a founding father of the town of New Marlborough and the First Church of New Marlborough. Aaron Adams’ father Simon was a Captain in the Revolutionary War and was a second cousin to U.S. President John Quincy Adams. During the restoration process, many artifacts were found in the main farmhouse, including a bayonet from a French rifle dating back to the French Indian War. The farmhouse, dating back to 1760, was meticulously restored to its original grandeur and rebuilt in 2015. Preserved are the hand hewn post and beam construction, original wide plank flooring and four original stone fireplaces.
For more information: Marc Bachman, 413.528.4192, mbachman@williampitt.com
12 Marchant Road – Redding, Conn.
In 1780 at the height of the American Revolution, the British were driven out of New Jersey for the final time and Samuel A. Foote, the 26th governor of Connecticut, was born in Cheshire. About 40 miles away in Redding, this home at 12 Marchant Road was built. The 49+ acre property is eligible for conservation easements and is an excellent site for a private polo field, equestrian facility or an organic farm. The private property is surrounded by field stone walls, but is also just 52 miles from New York City and is located one mile away from the local Metro North station.
For more information: Diane Jenkins, 203.966.2633, djenkins@williampitt.com
