Nestled in the heart of Winona lies a truly remarkable estate that has captured the attention of home enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This extraordinary mansion, adorned with intriguing features and brimming with rich heritage, is now available for those seeking to own a piece of Minnesota’s architectural legacy. With a price tag of $750,000, this majestic residence has recently taken the internet by storm after its captivating allure was shared on social media through Zillow Gone Wild.
Boasting eight bedrooms, six bathrooms, and an impressive 8,053 square feet of living space, the home stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Constructed in 1912, the property located at 22571 Briarcombe Lane has been expertly maintained throughout the years, showcasing exquisite thick molding, elegant built-ins, rounded doorways, and ceilings that evoke a sense of grandeur. The stately brick exterior adds to the property’s undeniable charm.
Spanning 15 acres of lush greenery adjacent to the renowned Signatures Golf Course, the property comprises two separate yet harmonious mansions connected by a captivating tunnel. While the previous owner transformed the second mansion primarily into a garage space, the main residence encompasses a host of unique spaces, including a hidden library and a billiard room. Imagine exploring the hidden passages and indulging in the pleasure of discovery within the confines of your own home.
While the mansion showcases its historical splendor, it does require some restoration work to reclaim its former glory. The listing explicitly mentions the gradual deterioration the home has experienced over the years, but it holds immense potential for someone eager to revive its original character and charm. Cisewski acknowledges that this venture requires dedication and expertise, cautioning that it may not be suitable for the faint of heart or amateur renovators. Consequently, the seller is specifically seeking cash buyers, as the property may not meet the requirements for traditional financing.
The recent appearance of the Briarcombe estate on Zillow Gone Wild has sparked significant interest and generated multiple offers, according to Cisewski. The exposure has invited a myriad of comments, showcasing the public’s curiosity and fascination with this captivating piece of history.
Delving into the rich heritage of Briarcombe Farm, a blog by Taff Roberts provides a glimpse into its storied past. In 1911, the visionary Rockwell Kent was commissioned to design and construct two Georgian Revival homes for the Laird sisters and their husbands, nestled within a 350-acre farm near Winona. Completed in 1913, these grand residences were aptly named Briarcombe.
For several decades, the Laird sisters resided in their cherished Briarcombe homes until the 1940s when the property changed hands to a new owner, Charles A. Choate. Choate reimagined the estate as Old Elm Farm, introducing alterations, particularly to the Bell mansion. In the 1960s, the property was once again renamed Lyngholm when it was purchased by the Christensen family, led by William Christensen. The remnants of the Bell mansion were aptly dubbed the Silver Dollar, serving as an entertaining haven for the Christensens and their esteemed guests and associates.
Over the years, the property passed through several hands, each contributing their own unique chapter to its illustrious story. From Wally and Donna Friend, who bestowed the name Walden upon the estate in 1971, to Edwin Meyerson and Mildred Sorato, who acquired the property in 1986, Briarcombe Farm has left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to experience its magic.
Now, as this extraordinary property awaits its next custodian, it stands as an emblem of timeless elegance and offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the captivating history of Winona. Whether you are an ardent history lover, a connoisseur of architectural beauty, or simply seeking an enchanting abode to call home, Briarcombe Farm beckons you to embark on an extraordinary journey through time and grace.
