23 Chest-Crosswicks Rd, Chesterfield, NJ 08515

The meticulous restoration of the 1688 Thomas Foulkes House was a labor of love that inspires locals to swell with pride and makes the heart of any history buff race. Not only does the fetching red structure cement the historic Village of Crosswicks’ reputation as one of Jersey’s most charming destinations, it offers a rare glimpse of 17th century American life. Built beside a tree-lined lazy runoff stream with preserved farmland spreading out behind the property, the charming cottage is brimming with authentic details that simply can not be replicated. Foulkes laid the stone foundation himself, bricks were shaped by hand and timber framing shows off rough edges. Antique bottles found on site were even incorporated into the rebuilt walls during the restoration. Handsome new doors, as well as refined trimwork in the surprisingly airy living room, were custom crafted. Of course, plumbing, electric and public sewer - all redone in 2017 - would have been unfathomable to Foulkes! The original cooking fireplace was also converted to gas for supplemental warmth with the flick of a switch. While a new Fisher Paykel fridge and convection oven are sure to please any gourmand, the kitchen feels period appropriate with earthy-hued granite beneath a beamed ceiling. In addition to a pantry, cubbies and built-ins provide spots to tuck away necessities in nearly every room. In the comfortably sized and naturally bright main bedroom, another fireplace is also gas-ready. A second bedroom and a finished third floor offer space for an office, guest accommodations and/or a dressing room to rival those found in any modern home. Herringbone brick, belgian block edging, granite steps and a real millstone are just some of the perfect materials to complement the exterior and matching storage shed. Proximity to major highways make Princeton, Philly and NYC an easy drive away. Owner is a licensed NJ real estate agent.

The Thomas Foulkes House. .. Step back in history, long before there was a United States of America, and welcome yourself to a new home built in 1688. "Restored" from top to bottom in recent years, this home was certainly one of the first homes ever built in what is now the United States. Thomas Foulkes a original settler who arrived in the "new world" with the Quakers aboard the "Kent" was deeded tract of land (Assunpink to Rancocas) from Mahlon Stacy who had been granted the land from the brother of King Charles II himself. Foulkes built the home and lived there with his wife Mary. Prior to coming to North America, Thomas and Mary were married in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, England. Own a piece of not just local history, but original American history at its finest. The craftmanship is like no other. The mortise and tenon timber frame was added to the original stone foundation. Upon entry into the dining area one is greeted with a grand fire place. The kitchen has been provided a modern conveinence of granite countertop and appliances that include dishwasher , refrigerator and stove. The kitchen is unique as it maintains the original contour of the foundation walls that Foulkes placed by hand over 300 years ago. The family room was added in recent years giving the home extra living space. The second floor has 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom. As you make your way to the 3rd floor you cant help but notice the hand plained wood work within the original non painted planking. Foulkes would have loved the new wiring, public sewer and water that this home has been upgraded with. The lot sits next to a lazy runoff stream that enhances the beauty of its space and hosts a replicated storage unit. The home is small by todays standards but is consistent with the early date it was built. It would be an ideal home for someone looking to downsize and reside in an historic village. Close to all major highways the village of Crosswicks makes for an easy commute to Princeton, Philadelphia or NYC. This 1200 sq ft home is waiting for the right owners to add to its historical legacy. Serious buyers only. Must be accompanied by listing agent.