A Former Gilded Age Summer Home Wants $6.25M in Washington, CT

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While Gilded Age homes come in different forms, the ornate stone mansions of New York City or Newport, Rhode Island often come to mind first. After all, that’s where many of America’s most powerful families of the time held residences. However, grand Gilded Age country homes were also constructed, though less on-the-radar today. A manor in Washington, Connecticut designed by the renowned architect Ehrick Rossiter is one such example. Known as Rock Gate, it has been standing since 1885 and is currently up for sale seeking $6.25 million.

Spanning 3.13 acres, Rock Gate is centered by a Queen Anne-style, shingled masterpiece that has been beautifully maintained. In fact, it won a Connecticut Preservation Award in the Physical Preservation category roughly ten years ago, per CT Insider. Rossiter crafted vast rooms dressed in wood, specifically featuring carved butternut wood panels and walnut and fir floors. The intricate staircase is another majestic feature, as are the home’s arched windows and 10 fireplaces. CT Insider also notes the the architecture’s subtle use of Freemason imagery, which was also quietly incorporated into U.S. staples like the $1 bill centuries ago. Reportedly, Rossiter created the home for Lucious A. Barbour, a spool cotton baron who lived in Hartford and was part of the “secret” fraternal society.

Over the years, the storied property has, of course, been updated to keep up with the times. While designed for a timeless look, the kitchen has clearly been remodeled and features like the heated gunite saltwater pool cement that this would still make an ideal summer getaway for someone. There’s also a wine cave for avid collectors.

In addition to the 5 or 6-bedroom main house, there are two new structures sure to please auto enthusiasts: A one-bay detached garage near the residence and another separate three-bay garage designed to look like a red barn. Maria Taylor of Klemm Real Estate holds the listing if you’d like more details.

This article appears in the October 2024 issue of DailyDeeds.