Affluent buyers looking in New York City expect to spend high prices for spacious homes and don’t expect a huge yard, but just an hour away it’s a whole other story. Expansive estates in Connecticut and New Jersey have similar price tags as apartments on the Upper East Side or Tribeca, but offer plenty of land and possibilities for large-scale gatherings. Right now, a 77-acre property dubbed Ellistan is asking $14 million in the desirable Somerset Hills area of New Jersey. It has no shortage of stately interiors and rolling hills, plus a rich local history.
At its heart, Ellistan is a long-admired equestrian estate. It has hosted the area’s beloved Essex Fox Hounds Thanksgiving Day meet since the 1930s, making it an integral part of the community’s sense of tradition. In recognition of all that this residence has to offer, it has been mentioned in two books; New Jersey Country Houses: The Somerset Hills, Volume II and The Gardens of the Garden State.
Reminiscent of a French chateau thanks to its Norman-style manor, the stately main house was built in 1931 by architect A. Musgrave Hyde, who was most active in New York. He built the home for Francis Edgar Johnson and his family. Since then, the manse has only switched hands three times. The massive estate also holds a three-bedroom guest cottage with a four-stall barn, a stable complex with three apartments, a well-stocked pond for fishing, and a pool and tennis court.
The current sellers have owned Ellistan for 40 years, maintaining it beautifully and adding a south terrace, a swimming pool, and much more with the help of George Betsill of Innocenti & Webel. From the entrance, it’s clear just how unique the home itself is. Small ornate details from the look of the windows to the marble fireplaces add to the Francophone essence, while a custom wood engraving on the front door with the estate’s name makes for a timelessly regal entry. Colorful wallpapers and traditional touches abound throughout the home, giving each room its own personality—whether you’re a fan of delicate florals or deep earthy hues, you can find both at Ellistan.
Ashley Christus of Turpin Realtors has brought this special property to market.
