5 pre(Revolutionary)war homes for sale right now
Happy 4th of July to all historic home lovers!
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I get asked often which war I’m referring to when I call a NYC apartment “prewar.” Typically, I’m referencing WWII, but today, we’re switching things up a bit.
To commemorate America’s 248th birthday, I scoured the market for the most interesting homes available that were built before 1776. If you’re an old-house lover like me, you’re charmed rather than daunted by the prospect of a 250-year-old home.
I found saltbox colonials, fieldstone houses, and even a clapboard homestead with a mural that would make Martha Stewart jealous. Whether you need to pass time while grilling hotdogs and hamburgers or are busy waiting for the sun to dip before fireworks, these houses are all worth a gander. Happy 4th of July, everyone!
Built in 1770: 17 Dort Road, Surry, NH - $875,000
While I unapologetically love the shabby vintage wallpaper throughout this 5-bedroom home, the real star of the show here is the parlor with painted early 19th-century mural (ca. 1825) by folk artist Rufus Porter.
You are definitely familiar with the iconic style of Rufus Porter, if only because I’m sure you’ve seen the pictures of Martha Stewart painting her own version in the entryway of Turkey Hill back in the late ‘80s/early ‘90s.
Other features of this utterly classic green-and-white house include a red barn connected to the main house by a side wing — a riff on the New England farmhouse style that has a “big house” connected to a “little house” and ultimately to a barn — great floorboards, and my favorite: A fireplace in the kitchen. Sure, some may want to update this cozy house a bit, but there’s also a part of me that feels like Jessica Fletcher would be perfectly at home here, and that it shouldn’t change at all. Listed by Jay Farrar of Sotheby’s 603-643-6070.
Built 1757: 520 Washington Rd., Rye, NH - $1,890,000
Dare I say it, this may be the most elegant home of the bunch. But I’m a bit biased: Federal architecture is my favorite for its generous proportions and restrained woodwork. Just look at the main rooms of this 4-bedroom house: The fireplaces are huge while the surrounding mantles feature relatively simple moldings and decoration. Ceilings are tall, windows are big, the whole place just feels airy. Not bad for being 267 years old!