Tucked into the heart of Athena, this iconic home blends storybook charm with grand scale. Known locally as the “Gingerbread House”, this one-of-a-kind residence offers just over 6,000 square feet of living space, featuring 5 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, built in 1927 as the M.L. Watts House. From the moment you arrive, the home’s distinctive architecture captures your attention. A rare cedar shingle roof, crafted with a whimsical, cottage-inspired design, pairs beautifully with the timeless brick exterior—creating a look that feels both historic and unforgettable. Inside, the expansive layout offers room to spread out, entertain, or reimagine the space to fit your vision. Outside, the grounds unfold into a private, garden-rich retreat. A detached garage/shop provides excellent space for projects, storage, or hobbies, while the greenhouse and large gardening area invite you to cultivate your own slice of Oregon soil. Warmer days are made for enjoying the above-ground pool or relaxing beneath the covered gazebo, creating a setting that feels leisurely and peaceful. Lining the streets, mature sycamore trees cast a shifting canopy of shade throughout the day, giving the property a calm, sheltered feel and adding to its timeless presence. Rich in character and local lore, this property stands as one of Athena’s most recognizable homes. Whether you're drawn to its architectural significance, generous square footage, or the opportunity to own a true landmark, this residence offers a rare chance to step into a piece of Eastern Oregon history. Schedule your showing today!
Single-familyProperty Type
1927Year Built
0.41 acresLot Size
$103Price/Sq.Ft.
2 car garageParking
Listed by Shannon Hartley• Hearthstone Real Estate
The creation and maintenance of attractive, livable residential neighborhoods is encouraged by the R-GEN zone. In keeping with the small size of the city, the zone is flexible. Houses, duplexes, Type A manufactured homes with house-type appearances, and manufactured dwelling parks are permitted outright.
Permitted uses
Include but are not limited to:
Housing-Single unit
Housing-Multiple units
Housing-Mobile home park
Climate risks
1/10 Flood Factor
Minimal risk of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
3/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 95° expected this year, 16 days in 30 years
1/10 Wind Factor
Minimal risk of severe winds over next 30 years
8/10 Air Factor
10 unhealthy days expected this year, 13 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Athena, OR • 97813
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
41
30
43
31
55
39
61
40
70
47
79
53
87
60
86
61
81
56
62
43
49
38
46
36
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Sun exposure
90/ 100
Exceptional sunlight
Sunscore
This home receives average direct sun exposure in Athena. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
10.1 hrs
5.8 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 247 4th St
We cannot show automated home-value estimates for this home.
Nearby homes have recently sold between $95,000 and $625,000.
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 6 recent nearby sales, priced between $95K to $625K.