October 09, 2015
Contributed Art/Kurfiss.com
This home in Chester County, Pennsylvania, is on the National Register of Historic Places.
A brand new home may benefit from modern touches and state-of-the-art building technology, but there's no way to tell for sure if it will stand the test of time. If you live in a home with some history, however, you know that it's sturdy – and that it's got a story.
Each of the homes below is listed on a city, state or national historic register. They're all beautiful, but more than that, they each tell a story. In doing so, they connect their owners to something larger than themselves: the past.
1. A Federal-style farmhouse in Wilmington, Delaware, $699,500
The Hersey-Duncan farmhouse, built in 1804 by a prominent and wealthy miller, has changed over the centuries but has retained its essential character. It won a spot on the National Register of Historic Places because of its handsome Federal-style architecture, but current owners can also enjoy modern perks like a pool and a surround-sound theater in the basement.
See the listing here.
2. Artist's retreat in New Hope, $799,000
Built circa 1740s, Glen Gables has a long history as the home and hangout spot for artists and actors. Exuding Hollywood elegance from the outside, it has a charmingly understated interior.
See the listing here.
3. A view of the woods in Birchrunville, $449,000
This 200-year-old farmhouse is stunningly situated on a hillside in sylvan Birchrunville, Chester County. Features that have endured over time include the hand-split cedar roof, the stone steps up to the porch (note the wonderful exposed beam work) and even a springhouse still fed from its original source.
See the listing here.
4. Live on one of Philly's prettiest blocks, Center City, $479,000
This handsome red-brick building is one of 26 homes located on Waverly Street built in 1862 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The owner gushes that it is located on "one of the most beautiful blocks in Philadelphia." Amenities include a spacious kitchen, private patio and a view of the Center City skyline from the top-floor bedroom.
See the listing here.
5. The Black Mansion in Hammonton, New Jersey, $375,000
This 1880s Victorian mansion belonged to William L. Black, a prominent businessman who owned the town's general store and post office in the turn of the century. It was restored to its original appearance and landscaping in 1993, according to the Historical Society of Hammonton, and is listed on both the state and national historic registers.
See the full listing here.
6. Handsome townhouse in Society Hill, $1.197 million
All the historic homes on Delancey Street are wow-worthy, but this red-brick townhouse is particularly handsome. Listed on the city's historic register, the three-story, three-bedroom home features a lush garden with a koi pond and fountain, private gated parking and a library with custom, built-in shelving.
See the listing here.
