By Megan Montemarano
Have you ever dreamed of owning your own bed & breakfast? The extraordinary chance to welcome each morning (and each lucky guest) with the delicious aromas of a hearty country breakfast proudly awaits at these three picturesque inn retreats that are currently for sale.
Out on the shoreline of Connecticut in the charming village of Old Saybrook, the Deacon Timothy Pratt Bed & Breakfast boasts a history unlike any other. The landmark antique Colonial, located at 325 Main Street, currently serves as a four-suite inn, offering full accommodations as well as owner’s quarters. “This is a truly unique opportunity to own an iconic residence with income potential,” comments Essex agent Rick Weiner, who is listing the property.
Timothy Pratt, a carpenter who was a deacon in the local meeting house across the street, built the residence in 1746. The home is listed on the National Historic Register, and has been meticulously restored to preserve its fine original details and distinct old-world charm—a necessity when it comes to the highly regarded world of bed & breakfasts in New England. There are a total of five bedrooms, four of which are currently used for inn guests, each boasting its own private whirlpool bath, fireplace, queen bed, cable TV, internet and sitting area. This sheer elegance continues throughout the home, especially in its impressive dining room, which can easily accommodate 20 guests around the table.
The property may additionally be purchased with the neighboring James Pharmacy and Soda Fountain, the former home and business of Anna L. James, the first licensed African American female pharmacist in Connecticut, who ran her business here from 1917-1967. Prior to this, the building also served as a general store to the Humphrey Pratt Tavern in 1790, where Revolutionary War hero Marquis de Lafayette is believed to have stayed. Revamped in 1984 while maintaining the historic elements of James’ longstanding pharmaceutical business, the building became a popular soda fountain shop, and still serves old-fashioned favorites, ice cream and gourmet coffees today.
For more information: Rick Weiner, 860.227.3191, Rweiner@williampitt.com
A quintessential Colonial home and bed & breakfast located at 1 East Street in Lee, Mass., thrives off its pristine Berkshires setting. Known as the Jonathan Foote 1778 House, the residence contains three main level bedroom suites, as well as four bedrooms and baths on the second floor, accommodating guests with great comfort for a relaxing weekend getaway. Additional features include a keeping room with its original functioning fireplace, as well as a dining room, impressive kitchen and office space.
While savoring its antique, elegant details, the residence has been updated to seamlessly blend a classic atmosphere with modern convenience and amenities. Resting on over three acres of land, the luscious property additionally has a new free-standing shingle barn, which is currently used as a workshop complete with a studio apartment above.
For more information: Patrice Melluzzo, 413.446.1146, Pmelluzzo@williampitt.com; Dawn Farley, 413.429.7133, Dfarley@williampitt.com
1079 Main Street in Great Barrington, Mass. marks the site of an 1892 Queen Anne-style residence, regarded by many as perhaps one of the most exquisite Victorians in the region. Restored and updated for contemporary living, the five-acre property includes a finished carriage house and a seasonal guest cottage, and is permitted to serve as a bed & breakfast in town. “The house occasionally takes overflow guests from B&Bs in the area,” explains Great Barrington agent Jared Kelly, who is co-listing the local landmark with fellow Great Barrington agent Dan Alden. “The current owners choose not to take guests regularly as a matter of lifestyle, but there is no reason why one couldn’t in the future. This Berkshire treasure is a thriving business just waiting to fully unfold.”
For more information: Dan Alden, 413.335.9300, Dalden@williampitt.com; Jared Kelly, 413.854.1504, Jkelly@williampitt.com
