Stress melted away and time seemed to stop as my car rolled up the driveway of 320 Front St. in Chesaning, Michigan. Ever have that sensation when visiting a place? I have never featured a listing on my blog; who knows, I may never again. But this particular home just isn’t your ordinary place. It will be purchased as much for the ambiance, the history, as for the space I’m sure.
Before I even completed my turn through the circle drive I had already imagined myself sitting in a wicker chair on the giant front porch of this Italianate styled home, sipping a lemonade. By the time I opened my car door, I could see me strolling through the rolling treed lawn and down to the riverfront to plop down on a log and throw out my fishing line. Ok, so maybe I would’ve brought a camp chair, but my visions were of something like Laura and Pa on Little House
Upon entrance and even view of the home; all visions of Little House certainly vanished. I became lost in a world of wonder as my eyes feasted on the beautiful combination of history and the utilization of modernity. The owners, Bill and Pat Boyd, who have owned the home since 2000 gave me a delightful tour with several historical tidbits for each room. Original 1865 light fixtures hang in the dining room and parlor. The staircase spirals up four floors to the glassed in cupola. I just wanted to run my hands up the original ornately carved oak banister, round and round. I happened upon a spot on the main floor that when positioned just so; you can look directly up to the sky and it appears like a perfect little circle above. From the elegant dining area you can go back toward the parlor and find french doors to the back deck and pool. Even the main floor bath here is an attraction, with its antique tub and copper plumbing rising up to a shower head. This home can even boast having had the first bathtub in the entire village!
The living room is incredible, with three sets of french doors, columns, and one of the homes six fireplaces. I could write an entire review just of the fireplaces in this home. Some are ornately carved oak with great mantles and others are swirling marble. The entire atmosphere is calming and peaceful. I could see all the space for servants to scurry around in the giant kitchen with storage and counterspace in abundance. The kitchen is conveniently updated but true to the historical character.
I could go on and on about each level. The second floor which holds the master suite with it’s romantic fireplace and magnificent bath; the former maid’s quarters that are now a fabulous second suite, the other two bedrooms, one with fireplace as well; the total of three baths on the second floor. Climb the spiral one more level and you can open a curious door to the third level which is unfinished storage room, and the last leg of that circular journey will seat you in the 360 degree view cupola, complete with seating and a tea table. The view is magnificent, overlooking the acreage, the historic village, and river. I can only imagine what you could see during the 4th of July fireworks show!
So, if you’re looking for a wonderful piece of history; a piece of history begun by the Robert H. Nason & Susan O’Dell family in 1865, this original near 4000 sqft masterpiece with nearly 5 acres, may be for you. Feel free to click the link below to see the complete listing. Or call me for your private showing at 989-475-2958.
http://www.homesofmidmichigan.com/Home/151706/MPM/320-N-Front-Chesaning-MI-48616/
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