Location: 212 Bellvale Lakes Rd, Warwick
Description: Dating back to before the Revolutionary War, the historic Horton-Sayer House is an original stone abode in charming Warwick. A true example of early American architecture, it was built by Benjamin Horton, an early settler to the Hudson Valley who served as captain to the colonial troops during the French and Indian War. Horton was a direct descendant of Barnabas Horton, who first arrived in America via the Swallow in 1635 and settled in Southold, Long Island in 1640.
After Horton constructed the property, which sits on 5.1 acres of grassland and forest, the home passed to his son, Milton, who later sold it to Benjamin Sayer. At 4,220 square feet, the house still retains many of its original elements. Inside, details like wide plank flooring, large stone fireplaces with hand-hewn stone mantels, and early hardware echo back to its historic origins. In keeping with the times, however, modern amenities like contemporary appliances, central air conditioning, and new windows and a cedar roof offer welcoming creature comforts.
In 1986, the saltbox portion of the home was relocated from New Hampshire and adjoined to the circa-1725 stone section of the house. Now connected, the structure is an eye-catching feature amid the serene Warwick landscape.
Asking price: $595,000
Selling points: In addition to its significant local history, Horton-Sayer boasts six bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a chef’s kitchen. Although set in the quiet countryside of Orange County, the retreat is only a short 10-minute drive from the heart of Warwick proper. Add to that a pristine outdoor porch and a number of massive fireplaces, and you have the best of old and new in the Hudson Valley.
Listing agent: Jacob Matthews, Ellis Sotheby’s International Realty