A Remarkable Home with Historic Significance in Newton

Step back in time with this stunning Victorian era Gothic/Greek Revival lovingly restored and updated and modernized over the years.

Exterior
The sheltering wrap-around porch is supported by a set of hand-turned Doric columns. The pitch of the roof is steep with deep curves and at the peak of the front façade, a diamond-shaped window echoes the sharp roof point. The grounds have been professionally landscaped with mature flowering, plantings, tiered gardens, brick walkways. a stone fire pit, and a stone patio water fountain.

Interior
The living room surrounded by original Richardson ceiling to floor summer windows which are unique as described by the current owner.

“The lower sash, larger than the upper sash, is designed to lift up into the wall cavity, maximizing the opening for fresh air. The main part of the house is shaped like a fat “T”, which results in almost all rooms containing windows on at least two faces. The tall ceilings, large windows, and shade from the large trees kept (and keeps) the house cool, even in the heat of the summer.”

Floor to ceiling windows

Spacious eat-in kitchen with Granite Counters and fully functional 1939 Glenwood Stove. Seller offers an allowance for the buyer to have the stove replaced. Oak floors replaced and finished to period detail, features eco-friendly bamboo flooring, some original sweetheart pine floors, the kitchen is finished in Ash and Dining room in Brazilian Cherry.

Sun-filled bedrooms feature original moldings and ample storage. The second floor Juliet Balcony was designed to bridge across to the backyard terrace.

All full baths have heated radiant tile flooring.

The History
Around 1864, an unmarried woman named Priscilla Frothingham built her summer cottage in the style of a Greek Revival. She referred to the property as her “Woodside Cottage.” Since the Boston and Worcester Railroad created a Newtonville train stop in 1860, many Bostonians found Newton to be the perfect summer destination. The railroad system made ornamental architectural details and metal parts affordable. This beautiful home is filled with many unique decorations and flourishes. History has it that Priscilla lived in the home for many years with her companion, Hannah Allen. The 1855 state census and 1870 federal census indicate women, born in Ireland, lived in the maids’ quarters as housekeepers. She also had maids living in the quarters located over the

kitchen. When the home was built, it was pre-Victorian and over the years, the house was “modernized” more in the Victorian fashion. As was done in the day, the house was originally heated by fireplaces. Later there were hot water radiators installed which were fueled by coal. In the heat of summer, the tall ceilings, large windows, and shade from the large trees kept (and keeps) the house cool. It is rumored that during the Civil War, Priscilla’s nephew, a minister in Salem, was involved in the Underground Railroad. In the 1920’s Betty Davis was reported as having slept in the house occasionally while attending Newton North High School. Listed on the National Register of Historic places, circa 1846, this beautiful home is a treasure.

MLS # 72530283
480 Walnut St, Newton, MA 02460
Offered at $1,649,000
12 rooms
5 bedrooms
2x full baths
1x half bath
Living area 3,648 sq. ft.
Lot size: 24,342 sq. ft

The listing broker is Greer Tan Swiston

If you would like a Buyer Agent’s advice as you tour the home, contact me at Janet@JanetPorcaro.net or call 617-797-9497.

The information in this listing was gathered from third-party sources including the seller and public records. MLS Property Information Network and its subscribers disclaim any and all representations or warranties as to the accuracy of this information. Content ©2011 MLS Property Information Network, Inc.