A Home Fit For A Founding Father: 'Landmark Of American Colonial History' Hits Market For $1.1M

MIDDLETOWN, NY — The Lincoln Bedroom might be the most exclusive accommodations in the free world, but it might be even more fun to hang a "George Washington slept here," plaque over your very own master bedroom.

A rare chance to own a late 18th century landmark of American colonial history in the Hudson Valley is here for $1.1 million.

Set on 0.83 acres on Scotchtown Collabar Road in Middletown, the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home "was expanded and updated in the early 1990s with the addition of an architecturally unique cedar-clad wing that blends centuries-old character with refined contemporary design," according to the listing, by Jacob Matthews of Ellis Sotheby's International Realty.

Built circa 1791, the Orange County property was originally part of the Mills Homestead. It was one of the first houses in the area and may have served as a cobbler's workshop. Located along the original stagecoach route connecting Albany to Washington, D.C., it is rumored that George Washington stopped at the homestead during his journeys.

The property is a "colonial masterpiece: a rare intersection of history, architecture and lifestyle," according to Matthews. "Homes of this age and authenticity rarely retain such integrity, and even fewer are paired with striking contemporary design and luxury amenities like the in-ground swimming pool. Completely unique in provenance, setting and design, this is truly a once-in-a-generation opportunity—historic, beautiful and deeply livable."

The home's antique natural stone façade, standing-seam roof, and red front door "echo the spirit of that era," while original craftsmanship, such as beamed ceilings, hand-worked wood details, and period stonework, have been carefully preserved.

On the main level, the antique main room leads into a large contemporary living room with sliding glass doors that open to the pool, deck and patio. An open-concept kitchen and dining room offer "an elegant setting for modern living and entertaining." A home office, large entry foyer, den and full bath complete the first-floor.

Upstairs, a "luxurious" primary suite with a sitting room serves as a "private sanctuary," joined by three additional bedrooms and a hall bath in the historic wing.

A home gym can be found on the lower level.

According to the listing, the grounds feel like a private retreat, with an in-ground pool framed by an expansive deck, a stone patio and a cedar pergola. Tall pines, mature perennials, and wide-open lawns "create a sense of enclosure and tranquility." In addition, the home overlooks the protected woodlands of Highland Lakes State Park, with over 3,000 acres of trails, lakes and preserved natural beauty.

The detached two-car garage includes additional space above that can be used as a studio, an exercise room, or a creative workspace.

The property is an estimated 90 minutes from NYC, and around 35 minutes away from the Catskills and Shawangunk Mountains. The area has various cultural institutions, farm-to-table dining, wineries, educational and medical centers, and celebrated arts destinations, such as the Storm King Art Center and Bethel Woods.

Annual property taxes are estimated to be $11,595. The property is zoned to the Valley Central (Montgomery) School District.