Historic Mansion in Massachusetts Town Remains a Puzzle Seven Years After Purchase

Local News News

Historic Mansion in Massachusetts Town Remains a Puzzle Seven Years After Purchase
MassachusettsNorthboroughHistoric Mansion
  • 📰 nypost
  • ⏱ Reading Time:
  • 71 sec. here
  • 10 min. at publisher
  • 📊 Quality Score:
  • News: 56%
  • Publisher: 67%

A majestic 1886 mansion in Northborough, Massachusetts, purchased for $1.75 million to save it from demolition, continues to pose a dilemma for the town. While the White Cliffs estate holds historical significance and architectural beauty, its upkeep costs have become a burden, and the town has yet to find a viable use for the building. Despite exploring various development options and seeking grant funding, Northborough faces the challenge of preserving this grand relic while managing its financial obligations.

Seven years ago, the town of Northborough , Massachusetts , a small town about 45 miles west of Boston, purchased the majestic 1886 White Cliffs estate for $1.75 million, saving it from demolition. However, the town still hasn't figured out what to do with the historic 32-room mansion, whose upkeep is proving to be a significant financial burden .

Built by Daniel Wesson, co-founder of the Smith & Wesson firearms manufacturer, as a summer home, the White Cliffs estate was originally valued at what would be $9.5 million today. Despite numerous attempts to find a suitable use for the building, Northborough has been unsuccessful. Officials have explored partnerships with businesses to develop the 139-year-old structure into a restaurant, concert venue, or apartments, but these efforts have yielded no results. The town has also been passed over for grant money that could have funded a much-needed rehabilitation. The historic mansion has unfortunately fallen into disrepair, and the costs associated with its maintenance continue to rise. Experts have estimated that it would take an additional $10 million to fully renovate the White Cliffs estate, simply to make it habitable. Adding to the financial strain, the grounds surrounding the estate require infilling to ensure the building's structural integrity, a project with an estimated cost of $88,000. The White Cliffs estate is believed to be one of the last grand mansions designed by the renowned Herter Brothers, interior decorators who have worked for prominent families like the Vanderbilts and even the White House. The mansion's significance and historical value make its preservation a top priority for the town, but finding a sustainable solution for its future remains a challenge

We have summarized this news so that you can read it quickly. If you are interested in the news, you can read the full text here. Read more:

nypost /  🏆 91. in US

Massachusetts Northborough Historic Mansion White Cliffs Estate Preservation Renovation Financial Burden

United States Latest News, United States Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Historic Delaware River Mansion with George Washington Ties Hits Market for $1.75 MillionHistoric Delaware River Mansion with George Washington Ties Hits Market for $1.75 MillionTowerview, a grand three-story, seven-bedroom home overlooking the Delaware River in Edgewater Park, N.J., is for sale for $1.75 million. The 7,012 square foot house boasts a rich history dating back to the mid-1700s, with early 18th-century roots and a genuine George Washington connection. The Allens, who lived in the home for 43 years, meticulously maintained the mansion's design and decorative elements, creating a space that has hosted numerous philanthropic, civic, social, and family events.
Read more »

Historic Mansion with Modern Touches Listed for $6.75 MillionHistoric Mansion with Modern Touches Listed for $6.75 MillionDaybreak, a stately Georgian Colonial mansion in South Mountain, New Jersey, offers a captivating blend of historical charm and modern updates. Built in 1912, the home boasts eight bedrooms and eight bathrooms across 13,000 square feet, set on nearly 1.5 manicured acres. Original architectural details are meticulously preserved, while the interior showcases a sleek new kitchen, an indoor mineral pool and spa, and a detached carriage house with a guest apartment.
Read more »

Historic Mansion with Manhattan Views Listed for $5.99 MillionHistoric Mansion with Manhattan Views Listed for $5.99 MillionA fully renovated six-bedroom mansion with breathtaking views of Manhattan and the Hudson River is on the market for $5.99 million. The 1900s-era home boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, including Rococo and Tuscan influences, with ornate details like gold applique moldings, stained glass windows, and hand-painted frescoes. Located in walking distance to public transportation, the property has attracted interest from both domestic and international buyers.
Read more »

American Billionaire Snags Historic London Mansion for Steep DiscountAmerican Billionaire Snags Historic London Mansion for Steep DiscountA mysterious American tech billionaire has reportedly purchased one of the UK's most expensive homes, known as London's 'White House,' for significantly less than its original asking price. The 40-bedroom palace, formerly owned by the family of a Saudi prince, is the second-most expensive residential deal in UK history.
Read more »

Historic NJ Mansion with 20 Rooms and 11 Fireplaces Listed for $4.9MHistoric NJ Mansion with 20 Rooms and 11 Fireplaces Listed for $4.9MA nearly century-old mansion in New Jersey, known as 'A Country Estate,' has hit the market for $4.9 million. Built for a Manhattan banker, the 20-room estate features numerous luxury amenities and has been modernized while preserving its historic charm.
Read more »

Historic Italian villa built and owned by the Gucci family now asks $14.2M for saleHistoric Italian villa built and owned by the Gucci family now asks $14.2M for saleHistoric Gucci mansion in Italy lists for $14.2M
Read more »



Render Time: 2025-03-14 05:21:09