The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Charming bed and breakfast
Historic Haddam home on 5 acres with two outbuildings
If walls could talk, they would share a truly captivating tale of the history, beauty and charm that has permeated throughout the beautifully restored Nehemiah Brainerd House for the past 253 years.
This truly one-of-a-kind property includes three separate residences and is set on 5 park-like acres, which overlook Haddam Meadows State Park and provide views of the Connecticut River.
The next chapter in the historic estate’s story could be written to include you, as it is currently available for purchase as either a single-family residence or as a turnkey business. The current owners are presently operating an award-winning bed and breakfast on the grounds, but originally bought the property as a private home.
The story of 988 Saybrook Road began in 1765, when the main house was constructed by Nehemiah Brainerd. The home was finely crafted with post and beam construction and features generously sized rooms, elegant pillars and multiple patios throughout the property.
In 1932, best-selling novelist Katharine Brush purchased the property. From that point, the house appeared in an issue of Architectural Digest and in a 1932 Boston Globe article. In recent years, the home was featured on HGTV’s “If Walls Could Talk.”
After purchasing the main house, Brush built a writer’s cottage on the property. The charming “Laurel Cottage” was completely restored by the present owners and now includes a bedroom, kitchen and bathroom within its 794-square feet of living space.
“It is beautifully appointed in every way and includes its own private patio with fabulous views,” the current owner commented.
In 2010, the main house underwent an extensive renovation. The five-bedroom, 2,658-square foot colonial is completely updated with the finest finishes and modern mechanical systems.
“The house is in impeccable condition,” the present owner noted. “We did a top-to-bottom restoration over our time here. You name it and we restored or replaced it while leaving the wonderful old fixtures and charm of the home intact.”
The Carriage House was also recently built and features a 904square foot loft apartment equipped with a full kitchen, two bedrooms, one bathroom and a great room with fireplace. Its lower level features a heated three-car garage.
The property itself is situated in a quintessential New England setting and offers a wealth of nearby amenities including country stores, a farmers’ market and hiking trails. The current owner fondly described Haddam as a “small town with a country feel, full of history and culture but still close to city amenities.”
Additionally, the Connecticut River provides a host of wateroriented activities; and there are many popular cultural destinations in close proximity. The area also has excellent restaurants; with Middletown being a culinary delight due to its array of dining choices.
According to the property’s listing agent Allison Gentile-Pollack, the estate offers many unique possibilities; including significant income producing potential.
“Located near the world-renowned Goodspeed Opera House, this peaceful, private spot is an irresistible compound in a quaint locale,” she remarked.
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