What’s Old Is New Again: 5 Homes Built in the 1800s

In sought-after locations from Southampton to San Francisco, these irreplaceable homes afford the opportunity to own a personal piece of history.

Serene Southampton Compound

Dawn Petrillo & Pat Petrillo, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

Dating to 1893 and conscientiously renovated in 2014, this estate is nestled an idyllic gated setting. Filled with gentle light and classical charm, it features a living room with a fireplace, an oversized dining room, a sitting area with a wall of windows, a library or office, a spacious eat-in kitchen, four bedrooms, and a sunroom with a view of the backyard gardens, cabana, and heated saltwater pool. The stylish freestanding guesthouse offers two additional bedrooms and enjoys its own living area and patio.

Coastal Character and Charm

Karen Burton and John Burton, Sotheby’s International Realty – Falmouth Brokerage

On the upper level of a vintage 1804 carriage house off Main Street in Falmouth’s historic district, this delightful condominium home features an open floor plan, tall ceilings, plentiful windows, honey-hued hardwood floors, a gas fireplace, a kitchen with an island and counter seating, two bedrooms with walk-in closets and full baths, central air conditioning, and ample storage. Colorful roses, a private patio, and a quintessential white picket fence complete the picturesque setting.

Historic Harlem Manor

Lisa Maysonet & Michael Morgenfruh, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

A rare gem in Harlem’s Mount Morris Park Historic District, this magnificent 8,000-square-foot residence was designed by architect James E. Ware, built in 1888, and recently restored to offer 10 bedrooms—including a private top-floor suite with a fully equipped kitchen—and formal living and entertaining spaces retaining striking parquetry, rich woods, bay and stained-glass windows, and multiple fireplaces. In addition to verdant views of Marcus Garvey Park just across the street, it includes a shady rear garden patio tucked beneath a tree.

Isadore Lovenberg House

Jim Rosenfeld, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 

Walking distance from Galveston’s restaurant row, the Isadore Lovenberg House was designed by prominent Victorian architect Nicholas Clayton. Built in 1877 and painstakingly renovated, it is replete with meticulously maintained period details, including hardwood floors, transom windows, elegant chandeliers, and beadboard wainscoting. The gourmet kitchen has been updated to feature stainless-steel appliances and a butler’s pantry. Porches and verandahs are ideal for enjoying fresh breezes and views of the vibrant landscaping surrounding the heated saltwater swimming pool.

Historic Bernal Hill Beauty

Pattie Lawton, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

Constructed at the close of the 19th century, this lovely historic home is anchored by a sleekly updated open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area with skylights and sliding glass doors to an enviable wraparound deck with sweeping city and sunset views. The upper-level primary suite has a striking beamed ceiling, a luxurious bath, a walk-in closet, and its own balcony. The versatile lower level currently serves as a bedroom suite but could easily be adapted to function as a family room.

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