Restored 1678 New England estate offers an authentic glimpse into the past

An “irreplaceable opportunity” to buy a historical First Period estate with its own ell and an antique barn has been brought to the market in Massachusetts, where it is offering an “authentic glimpse into early New England life,” as well as the chance to take on stewardship of one of the country’s oldest surviving homes.The Gloucester, MA, residence, which has been listed for $1.25 million, was originally built in 1678—however, additional structures have been added to the 2.4-acre parcel in the years since.Still, the meticulously preserved four-bedroom abode, which is known as the William Haskell House, is still full of charm and character.“The original house was built in the late 1600s and has stood the test of time over the years,” says listing agent Michael Selbst of Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty.“It’s still standing as it were when it was built nearly 350 years ago.”The property is named after its original owner, who harvested salt hay from the nearby tidal marshes more than three centuries ago.Selbst says the sellers have primarily used the residence as a summer home and rented it out during the months when they were not living there.

However, he noted that it would work just as well as a primary home for anyone who is looking to relocate more permanently.“It could do well as either a primary or secondary residence,” he said.“I could see empty nesters wanting a primary bedroom on the first floor with guest accommodations upstairs.”“A lot of people who have looked at it have been young families.

It’s located in a safe and sequestered neighborhood where you can set your kids free.”Buyers can also rest easy in the knowledge that they aren’t going to be dealing with centuries-old plumbing; though the home appears very much as it did when it was first constructed, behind that façade lie much more modern upgrades.While the interior has been thoughtfully protected as it existed back in the day, the home’s s...