Step into a world where history and modernity seamlessly intertwine. In the heart of New England, a curated collection of homes awaits—each a testament to timeless craftsmanship and the evolution of architectural style. From the graceful lines of an 1883 Victorian in Francestown and the rustic charm of an 1869 farmhouse in Colebrook to the refined elegance of an 1890 Colonial in Wolfeboro and an enchanting 1890 Victorian in Manchester, these properties not only capture the essence of their era but also embrace contemporary comforts. Prepare to embark on a journey through beautifully restored interiors, storied pasts, and landscapes that evoke the spirit of a bygone era, inviting you to experience the magic of historic living reimagined.
1. 1883 Victorian Home in Francestown
Welcome to this meticulously restored Victorian gem, originally built in 1883 and now offered at $975,000. Nestled on 2.5 acres in Francestown, New Hampshire, the home seamlessly blends historic charm with modern updates. Boasting 4,779 square feet of living space, it features five bedrooms, three newly renovated bathrooms, and soaring ten-foot ceilings that enhance its airy feel. The original refinished hardwood floors and detailed woodwork pay homage to the property’s rich history, while a thoughtful remodel has introduced a custom kitchen and updated bathrooms. Surrounded by a tranquil pond and mature trees, the grounds offer a park-like setting—perfect for leisurely strolls or entertaining outdoors.
Where is Francestown?
Francestown is situated in the southwestern region of New Hampshire, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic woodlands. Approximately 30 miles from Manchester and within reach of Boston’s cultural attractions, this small town was settled in the 18th century and retains a quintessential New England charm. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Crotched Mountain Ski & Ride, while history buffs appreciate the area’s well-preserved colonial architecture and local landmarks. Francestown’s close-knit community and picturesque landscapes make it a cherished destination for those seeking both heritage and natural beauty.
Exterior
A side view of the bright yellow clapboard siding showcases the home’s classic Victorian lines, complemented by black shutters and a connected barn-style carriage entry. Leaf-strewn ground and a canopy of autumn foliage create a warm, inviting approach. Large windows punctuate the facade, allowing abundant natural light inside. The roof peaks and gables hint at the era’s architectural flair, while the attached outbuilding provides additional storage or workshop space.
Dining Room
Sunlight pours in through tall, multi-pane windows that frame lush greenery outside. The space features wide-plank hardwood floors, stained a rich honey tone to highlight the home’s original character. A modern rectangular light fixture hangs above the wooden dining table, blending contemporary design with the vintage warmth of the room. Substantial wooden trim and doorways connect seamlessly to adjacent living areas, adding to the home’s cohesive, historic ambiance.
Kitchen
A spacious, modernized kitchen with a large central island invites both cooking and casual gatherings. Crisp white cabinetry contrasts with a sleek, dark countertop, while stainless-steel appliances and pendant lighting lend a current flair. The island offers bar seating for quick meals or friendly conversation. Generous windows overlook the wooded surroundings, and the high ceilings underscore the kitchen’s bright, open feel. Period wood trim around doors and windows retains the home’s antique charm.
Office
This bright, airy office space is lined with built-in bookshelves, ideal for an extensive library or art display. Soft natural light streams through windows on multiple walls, illuminating the warm wood floors. A simple desk setup, complemented by a plush armchair, creates a comfortable yet productive environment. Original woodwork and high baseboards echo the home’s Victorian roots, while neutral wall colors maintain a calm, focused atmosphere.
Bedroom
A serene bedroom with pale blue walls and large windows that overlook the treetops, allowing morning sunlight to gently fill the space. The original pine flooring is polished to a warm glow, and substantial wood trim around doors and windows speaks to the home’s 19th-century heritage. A ceiling fan offers modern comfort, and the room’s ample size accommodates a large bed with room to spare for additional furniture or a reading nook.
Living Room
A cozy living room anchored by a brick hearth and wood stove—perfect for chilly New England evenings. The walls are painted a deep, warm tone that contrasts beautifully with the polished wood floors. Built-in cabinetry to one side provides display and storage, while the large windows bring in views of the surrounding foliage. Plush seating and throw pillows in muted hues add contemporary comfort, striking a balance between historic elegance and modern relaxation.
Source: PrimeMLS via Zillow
2. 1869 Farmhouse in Colebrook
Meticulously remodeled yet brimming with historical charm, this 1869 farmhouse sits on 12 picturesque acres in Colebrook, New Hampshire. With 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,402 square feet of living space, the home seamlessly blends classic farmhouse architecture—steep gabled rooflines, traditional clapboard siding, and a welcoming front porch—with modern amenities. Recent renovations include updated electrical, radiant heat flooring, central vacuum, and a sealed basement. A new commercial garage adds ample workspace or potential for an apartment above. Listed at $950,000, the property also boasts direct access to ATV and snowmobile trails, making it a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. The large lot offers stunning mountain views and space for hobby farming or simply enjoying the serene landscape.
Where is Colebrook?
Colebrook is nestled in the Great North Woods region of northern New Hampshire, near the Canadian border. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic mountain vistas, it is approximately three hours north of Boston and offers a peaceful retreat from metropolitan life. Historically, the area developed around forestry and farming, contributing to its rustic charm and tight-knit community spirit. Today, Colebrook is celebrated for its abundant outdoor recreation—from hiking and fishing in nearby state parks to ATV and snowmobile adventures—making it a hub for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Exterior
A side-angle view showcases the home’s classic farmhouse silhouette, featuring pale yellow clapboard siding and a contrasting red metal roof. Mature trees frame the yard, and wide windows allow natural light to flood the interior. The well-kept lawn and gently rolling hills in the background reflect the property’s 12-acre expanse, offering ample space for gardening, recreation, or raising animals in the attached barn.
Bedroom
A bright, cozy bedroom with vaulted ceilings and neutral-colored walls. Sunlight filters through two dormer windows, highlighting the warm wooden flooring. The queen-sized bed, dressed in a patchwork quilt of soft grays and creams, sits against a simple metal frame. Matching bedside tables and lamps add a touch of rustic elegance, creating a restful, inviting atmosphere.
Dining Room
A spacious, light-filled dining area with wide-plank pine floors that lend a warm, farmhouse feel. The large wooden table comfortably seats eight, surrounded by black spindle-back chairs. Generous windows on three sides offer views of the lush grounds and autumn foliage, while a central overhead light fixture provides a soft, welcoming glow. Perfect for family gatherings and entertaining.
Kitchen
A modern yet charming galley-style kitchen with white shaker cabinets and granite countertops. Stainless steel and black appliances complement the crisp cabinetry, while a textured backsplash adds subtle visual interest. Soft, natural light enters through a window over the sink, highlighting the updated flooring. The open flow leads seamlessly to the adjacent dining space, ideal for meal prep and hosting.
Family Room
A rustic-inspired family room characterized by warm wood-paneled walls and exposed ceiling beams. A substantial stone fireplace with a brick chimney insert commands attention along one wall, creating a focal point for cozy evenings. Plush gray seating anchors the space, and barn-style doors on track hardware hint at the home’s blend of traditional and modern design. Large windows frame views of the surrounding countryside.
Living Room
A comfortable living room featuring a classic red brick fireplace that adds texture and historic charm. The hardwood floors gleam under soft overhead lighting, while patterned armchairs and a coordinating ottoman provide seating for conversation or relaxation by the fire. Neutral walls and trim keep the room bright, and built-in shelving offers both storage and display space, completing the welcoming, homey ambiance.
Source: PrimeMLS via Zillow
3. 1890 Colonial in Wolfeboro
Beautifully blending 19th-century charm with modern comforts, this meticulously restored 1890 Colonial sits on a 0.48-acre lot in the heart of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. Listed at $900,000 and offering approximately 3,000 square feet of living space, the home retains its original architectural allure—such as high ceilings, traditional woodwork, and ornate trim—while boasting updates like a new Buderus furnace. Currently functioning as a five-bedroom residence (though officially listed as two bedrooms on the tax card), it has a successful history as an Airbnb. Public water and sewer connections, along with proximity to “Residents Only” beaches on Lake Winnipesaukee, round out this inviting piece of New England’s oldest resort community.
Where is Wolfeboro?
Wolfeboro is located in eastern New Hampshire, within the scenic Lakes Region that surrounds Lake Winnipesaukee. Known as “America’s Oldest Summer Resort,” the town has a rich cultural history dating back to the late 18th century. With easy access to water-based recreation, charming local shops, and year-round community events, Wolfeboro has long been a favorite retreat for those seeking the quintessential New England experience.
Aerial View
An overhead perspective reveals the home’s sprawling footprint amid lush green foliage. A wide driveway curves from the road to the house, providing ample parking space. Tall trees surround the property, creating a private, shaded yard. The roof’s dark shingles contrast with the bright greenery, while the home’s rectangular main structure and attached sections highlight its historic, extended layout.
Side Exterior
This angled exterior shot shows the home’s red clapboard siding and crisp white trim, reflecting classic New England design. A small set of white steps leads to one of the entrances, and multiple windows bring natural light into each level. The home’s foundation is partially visible, hinting at the property’s age and sturdy construction. Mature trees frame the scene, adding to the inviting, timeless feel.
Bedroom
A soothing gray color palette envelops this comfortable bedroom. A wooden bed frame with matching side tables anchors the space, while a patterned rug adds a warm accent underfoot. Natural light filters through white curtains, illuminating a cozy reading nook complete with an upholstered armchair. Simple wall art and minimal decor keep the room calm and restful.
Dining Room
Set with a long, formal table adorned by place settings, this dining room exudes classic elegance. The walls are painted a soft blue, contrasting with the bright white trim around doors and windows. A large wooden hutch displays china and glassware, and a painting of a pastoral landscape adds a hint of local charm. Overhead, a traditional chandelier casts a warm glow on the polished hardwood floors, creating a welcoming space for gatherings.
Living Room
Sage-green walls and tall white-trimmed windows lend a tranquil atmosphere to this living area. A brick fireplace with a decorative white mantel serves as the focal point, complemented by a flat-screen TV mounted above. Plush seating includes a floral-patterned sofa and a deep red loveseat, arranged around a central coffee table. Sunlight streams through sheer curtains, highlighting the room’s cozy yet refined ambiance.
Kitchen
Exposed wooden beams and a gleaming hardwood floor give this kitchen a warm, rustic feel. White cabinetry contrasts with the dark granite countertops, and a central island offers both extra workspace and seating. Stainless steel appliances, including a gas range and a large refrigerator, provide modern convenience. Natural light from the windows and a pair of pendant lamps above the island brighten the space, perfect for casual meals and lively entertaining.
Source: PrimeMLS via Zillow
4. 1890 Victorian Home in Manchester
Step into history at this enchanting 1890 Victorian residence nestled in Manchester’s prestigious North End. Listed at $899,900, this five-bedroom, four-bath home spans approximately 3,356 square feet on a 6,534-square-foot lot. Its architectural allure is showcased by a prominent turret, shingle siding, and a sweeping front porch—hallmarks of the Victorian era. Recent renovations seamlessly blend modern comforts with period charm: a remodeled gourmet kitchen featuring Wolf and Subzero appliances, restored late-1800s stained glass, updated energy-efficient windows, a new gas furnace, and a Fujitsu mini-split system. The property also boasts an original carriage house, an English garden with a pergola and custom LED lighting, and a cobblestone driveway. Recipient of the 2020 Homeowner’s Preservation Award, this home is a testament to both its storied past and thoughtful restoration.
Where is Manchester?
Manchester is situated in southern New Hampshire, along the banks of the Merrimack River. It lies about 50 miles north of Boston, making it a central hub in the New England region. Historically, Manchester gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution with its thriving textile mills. Today, it remains the largest city in New Hampshire, celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, cultural attractions, and proximity to scenic landscapes—from the White Mountains to the Lakes Region. Visitors can explore museums, enjoy fine dining, and take advantage of year-round outdoor recreation in and around the city.
Exterior View
An elevated perspective reveals the home’s distinctive Victorian roofline, complete with a turret and steeply pitched gables. The light-colored shingles contrast beautifully with the darker asphalt roof, while mature trees and neatly manicured hedges surround the property. A cobblestone driveway leads to the original carriage house in the rear. Flowering shrubs and perennial gardens frame the house, evoking the feel of a classic English garden. From this vantage, you can appreciate the home’s wraparound porch, ornamental trim, and overall commanding presence in the neighborhood.
Bar Lounge
A cozy room with walls adorned from floor to ceiling in colorful patches—likely collected as mementos—immediately draws the eye. Rich, dark wood cabinetry spans one side of the space, displaying a variety of glassware and spirits. Two plush leather armchairs, set atop a neutral-toned carpet, provide a comfortable spot to relax. A bay window allows soft, natural light to filter in, while warm overhead lighting accentuates the inviting, club-like ambiance.
Kitchen
This bright, gourmet kitchen seamlessly blends Victorian charm with modern luxury. White maple cabinets and a contrasting dark wood range hood create visual interest. The centerpiece is a large island painted in a muted blue hue, flanked by leather-upholstered bar stools. High-end Wolf and Subzero appliances include double wall ovens and a professional-grade vent hood. Restored stained-glass panels from the late 1800s add a historic flourish above the cabinetry. Quartz countertops, Victorian-style pendant lighting, and a built-in wine fridge complete the sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
Living Room
A comfortable seating area with a leather sofa and matching armchairs is arranged around a stately fireplace topped by a decorative white mantel. Natural light streams in through a large window dressed with elegant curtains, illuminating the neutral-toned walls and warm hardwood floors. Built-in bookshelves line one corner, and a soft rug underfoot adds an extra layer of coziness. The overall vibe is a refined yet homey space perfect for both quiet evenings and entertaining guests.
Dining Room
An intimate dining area featuring a solid wood trestle table surrounded by leather-backed chairs. A deep-blue hutch, complete with glass-front cabinets, stands against the wall, offering both storage and a charming display area for fine china. A traditional chandelier casts a warm glow over the table, while a large window, partially shaded by woven blinds, invites natural light. Artwork on the walls and a subtle area rug add touches of color and texture, enhancing the room’s elegant appeal.
Bedroom
A tranquil retreat showcasing a classic wooden sleigh bed positioned atop a rich, patterned area rug. Soft beige walls and coordinating drapes create a restful ambiance, while tall windows on either side of the bed bring in daylight. A ceiling fan with warm-toned wood blades offers comfort and a hint of traditional style. Beside tables, each with a lamp, flank the bed for a balanced look. This serene space, complemented by ample closet storage (including a cedar closet in one of the adjacent rooms), is perfectly suited for relaxation.
Source: PrimeMLS via Zillow