This Antique Should be Prized

As it happens, there are many historic districts across Connecticut’s pretty landscape. And some, depending on where they are, occupy areas that are passed through quite regularly. Not least of them is Durham’s Main Street, dotted with many fine examples of antique homes. As people pass through town on their way to work or school, it becomes habit to admire these gems with our eyes, but not our minds. There is so much history behind these buildings, and yet most folks likely don’t give it a thought.

Settled in 1699, Durham residents showed early evidence of tremendous civic pride.  In 1733, the town was among the first to found its own public library, only two years after Benjamin Franklin did the same for the city of Philadelphia. Also, Durham is said to be the first town in this country to publish its history at its own expense. The History of Durham was published in 1800. Part of this rich history is the Moses Austin House located at 239 Main Street. While the house is listed circa 1754, there is the suggestion that part of the structure was built in the 1690s (according to Marilyn Ackerman, antique house historian), with an addition built in 1754. During the 20^th century, it was used as a post office and there was a shoemaker shop on the second floor. The home was also featured in Connecticut Beautiful, published in the 1920s. It's easy to see why; just check out the contemporary photos highlighting the home's gracious interiors, especially when furnished with lovely period pieces and decor.

Circa 1754, the historic Moses Austin House connects graciously with the Colonial mindset: proud, authentic and thoroughly American. Cross the threshold of the 17th century door and experience 2800 square feet of bright and grand spaces with lustrous wide plank floors, antique beams, four fireplaces (3 of which are working), beehive ovens, ancient stone hearths and original raised paneling. Large-scale main floor living celebrates three centuries old authentic details with room for everyone to keep a slower pace in the Living, Dining and Keeping Rooms. The charm and function of the library and mudroom will serve you well as will the warm and happy kitchen featuring eat-in ease alongside period details, marble-look Corian® counters, a spectacular pantry, stainless appliances, double wall ovens and charming tile backsplash. A child’s dream, this home offers 2 staircases and hidey-holes everywhere. The main entry offers a built-in lidded storage bench, substantial raised paneling, and wide staircase. Three bedrooms on the second floor feature stunning wide plank floors, original beams and paneling, lots of closets and built-ins, and glorious antique twelve-over-eight double hung windows. Tap into the walk-in closet and use the 4th upstairs room as the perfect office or nursery. 

Outdoors, thoughtful pathways and tiered bricked patios transform the lovely yard into garden rooms with trim boxwoods, English ivy, euonymus, hydrangeas, and pachysandra. The charming approach includes a cobblestone lined, crushed stone driveway, privacy fence and 2 car garage with cupola topped by a rooster weather vane. The home includes 3 bathrooms, first floor laundry, brand new furnace and 2 separate basements for storage galore each with its own stairwell, exterior hatchway and concrete floor.

This stunning example of a center chimney Colonial reflects three centuries of hard-won freedom, entrepreneurial spirit and success. Borrowing a bit from the Georgian style, the home has a symmetrical five-bay façade, centered entrance, and roof eaves close to the tops of the second floor windows and wood shingled roof. The ancient 17th century original door is notable for its diamond nail pattern. Largely attributed with procuring a large land grant in Texas from the Mexican government that was eventually colonized by his son Stephen, Moses Austin was born in Durham.

Come and embrace the past, present and future on Historic Main Street. If you are excited about this property or learning more about its history, I would love to hear from you, (860) 918-4580. It is offered for $325,000. And if you have reservations about owning an antique home, please visit this link from Antique Homes Magazine debunking some of the most popular myths about old homes.