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Welcome to one of the most impressive historic homes in the Brandywine Area, rich with history and elegance. The Marquis de Lafayette experienced his first action at the Battle of the Brandywine on September 11, 1777, where he showed extreme courage under fire in leading an orderly retreat. Unfortunately, he was shot through the calf during the battle. After he recovered, Lafayette was given command of a division of troops. Legend has it that Doctor Chandler was the only surgeon available within miles, and he operated on the Marquis at the Chandler House. During the Marquis's convalescence, General Washington visited him multiple times. Situated in the charming village of Centerville, a unique country estate on over three acres of mature landscaping awaits. Specimen trees planted by Evelena dupont lace the property, and tucked within, one finds a refreshing swimming pool with an entertainment area framed with wisteria climbing across a 300-year old foundation. This 18th-century stone house stimulates the senses with attention to detail around every corner. The home's grand staircase is flanked by sitting rooms, each with a fireplace. Seven working fireplaces, handsome paneling with built-ins including china cupboards, Rich hardwood floors and plaster walls have ben restored beautifully. The brightly lit gracious kitchen has room for a full table, updated stainless appliances, and a French door that accesses the terrace - perfect for a morning breakfast. The adjacent butler's pantry is the perfect place to start the party before heading into the elegant dining room with a fireplace and a secret door that once led to the Underground Railroad hideaway below. The sunroom was once a screened porch that the current owners expanded and transformed into a spectacular great room following the historic detail of the home. The great room has a fireplace that was once in the landmark Shipley House (the other two are at Winterthur), and this is a large room for celebrating and entertaining.......President Lyndon Johnson was here for such an occasion. The stone wall at the entrance is original to the house that dates back to the 1720's. Up the stairs is a large main suite with loads of built-in closets and storage, a laundry room, and an additional guest suite that would be perfect for an au pair as it has acess to the lower level via the second stairway. Two other bedrooms, each with a fireplace and bath, complete the second floor. The third floor is a magical hideaway for the young heart - two bedrooms, a full bath, loads of storage, and access to the third-floor attic, which could be transformed in to additional living space. The lower level has a wine cellar with historical roots to the Underground Railroad - the door to which is over 300 years old. There is a powder room, workroom, Bilco door for easy access, updated HVAC and water filtration systems, and a tunnel rumored to be part of the Underground Railroad. Outside is a carriage house with enough space for two cars and work equipment. The upstairs could be converted to additional living space. Roofs house have been replaced - Tile - standing seam metal and slate on the house. There are cedar roofs on outbuildings. Stone wall with electric gates to ensure privacy - truly a unique property. Located close to nearby Brandywine area attractions such as Winterthur, Longwood Gardens as well as walkable to the Village of Centerville, this home is a dream home come true that is rarely available. Easy access to Philadelphia, New York and Washington via air or rail. NOTE: The square footage on Public Records is not reflective of the sunroom expansion. There are 4 heating zones - main, upstairs, and 2 in the sunroom. There are tow working wells on the property - on supplies the house and one supplies the pool - each of the pumps has been replaced. There is a heated + fenced dog house. Guard do on the property - please do not attempt to enter property without permission. |
