MJ Collum, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 280 Ruskey Lane, Hyde Park, NY

Hudson Valley Living: Historic Dutchess County Farmhouse

By inside + out | October 27, 2023

If you like charm, character, and history, you’ll love this new listing by MJ Collum of Country House Realty. Just two years after America declared its independence, the original footprint of Centennial House was born. In the nearly 250 years since, this antique colonial has undergone a major expansion, modern updates, and the addition of a bank barn with a three-bay garage. This picturesque homestead is on a quiet road, set amongst scenic farms and equestrian estates, in prime Dutchess County.

INSIDE | 3 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 1,970 Square Feet

In the newest section of the home, the main entry leads to a laundry room with a half bath, followed by a bright open-flow kitchen and dining area. The chef’s kitchen is just a few years young, and includes a large center island and custom built-in desk. Glass sliders open out to the side yard and rear bluestone patio, for indoor/outdoor entertaining. Back in the kitchen, step down into the original 1778 section of the home with hand-hewn beams and classic pine floors. A middle sitting room offers a scenic view of the neighboring meadow, as well as a built-in bench seat and storage. Past the second staircase, and the original entry to the home, is a cozy den with a working wood-burning fireplace.

Up the original stairs in this wing of Centennial House is a private third bedroom – great for guests, an office, or older kids. This bedroom has easy access to the first-floor bathroom, including a cast iron pedestal tub, just at the bottom of the stairs.

OUTSIDE | 0.83 Acres | Detached barn + shed

Outside, the park-like grassy lawn is encircled by stone walls and shaded by mature trees. Enjoy bucolic views of the neighboring meadow, from a hammock strung between two sturdy maples. Gardeners will appreciate the fenced raised bed gardens and large shed for tool and equipment storage. The rear side of the bank barn has a loft area accessed via the upper landing, offering a playroom, workout area, or other flex use.

Besides being a weekend respite for the current owners, this perfect compound has also been a successful short-term rental, averaging $305 per night. Centennial House is located less than 2 hours from Grand Central Station, and just a 20-minute drive to Rhinebeck, Millbrook, or Poughkeepsie for dining, shopping and other amenities. Enjoy modern comfort and convenience, with all the charm of an antique home, in this modern-meets-historic homestead.