Property of the week: A modernized CT home that retains its historic charm and character

03.12.2023 14:03

A quintessential New England Greek revival home is waiting for a new steward.

Built in 1826 in picturesque Chester, this waterfront home has withstood the test of time thanks to widespread restorations, renovations, alterations and modern updates.

Nestled on one acre at 43 Liberty St., this historic home has nine rooms — three bedrooms and three bathrooms — spread over 1,901 square feet. With its temple-like front façade and a new asphalt hip roof supporting a portico and original Doric columns, the home is easy to recognize. In the past 50 years, the home has known only two owners.

43 Liberty in Chester
43 Liberty in Chester
43 Liberty in Chester
43 Liberty St. Chester, Connecticut

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“The (current) owners care about the next chapter of this house,” says Sacha Armstrong-Crockett, the listing agent.

The home’s architectural details offer a peek into the past. A prominent example of high style Greek revival, the structure is a testament to elegant design, stunning craftsmanship and meticulous preservation. The home was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Nine-foot ceilings (some with architectural in-lays), exquisite millwork, six wood-burning fireplaces, original wide-plank wood floors, several large chimneys, two staircases, expansive windows and built-in shelving and cabinetry grace the home. An “eagle’s nest” skylight is an artistic focal point on the main level.

Built for gimlet factory owner Charles Daniels, the home was first located about 300 feet east of its present site. In 1976, it was moved to its current location and rests on a replacement foundation of concrete blocks finished with an ashlar granite veneer from the original structure.

The entryway into the home is captivating with a soaring ceiling, a wooden staircase, intricate millwork, new cherry wood floors and the old-time pull doorbell.

Experience the timeless charm of the spacious double parlor or living room with original mahogany sliding doors in the center and fireplaces on both sides of the room. Natural light pours into the primary bedroom with an en suite, a ceiling fan and a fireplace. The library, which could double as an office, has an abundance of built-in shelving.

The lower level includes the eat-in kitchen with plenty of white cabinets and stainless appliances, a grand dining room with a black and white checkered floor and a china cabinet, a utility-laundry room and a bathroom. Stay warm by cozying up next to the two fireplaces that have storage too.

On the backside of the home, the stunning spiral back staircase takes you from the lower level to the second floor. This striking configuration could easily be compared to Austria’s architectural marvel — the Baroque spiral staircase of Melk Abbey.

“It’s the most beautiful staircase I have ever seen,” Armstrong-Crockett says.

Upstairs, there are two additional spacious bedrooms, a study and a full bathroom.

Another selling point of this home is the backyard with views of Chester Creek and its cascading waterfall, the perfect complement to the charm and character of this iconic residence. Sit on the deck to see the variety of waterfowl and birds that make frequent visits.

“To me, it is the soundtrack of your life,” the agent says. “It’s your own nature preserve.”

A native woodland garden of dogwoods, rhododendrons and mountain laurels have been planted on the other side of the stream. “These plantings preserve the natural aesthetic of Chester,” Armstrong-Crockett adds.

Pristine stonewalls, walkways, a courtyard and a patio surrounding the beautifully landscaped yard were added last year. An irrigation system keeps the land in pristine shape.

A septic system and a private well service the home. The water heater, fueled by propane, was recently replaced. A second sump pump has been installed, and the heating and ventilation systems have been updated. The air conditioning system is also newer and has been moved with the generator to the side of the structure. The washing machine and dryer are new as well. The area under the home has been backfilled and reinforced.

Last month, electrical updates were performed and new outlets were added. Earlier this year, the home’s exterior and interior were completely painted, so the home is move-in ready.

An added bonus on the property is a 1,000-square-foot, studio-style guesthouse that was built to serve as an architectural studio during the 1980s. The space features a kitchen-dining area, a bedroom, a living room, a full bathroom, laundry space and a new porch overlooking the majestic property. It can be used as an in-law suite, for overnight accommodations or an office with a view. It may also provide potential rental income.

Chester remains a wonderful place to live. The town’s enduring tree-lined village center boasts unique architecture, elegant shops, art galleries, theaters, great cuisine and historic buildings. A quaint wonder of the community is the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, a seasonal ferry that crosses the Connecticut River near Gillette Castle State Park.

The home and the guesthouse are listed for $1.6 million. For photos, a virtual tour with drone views and more details of this historic home and property, visit https://43libertyst.com.