582 The Ridge, Orford, NH $765,000
582 The Ridge, The Willard House…. One of seven properties on the ridge in Orford, NH
Property Overview
“The Willard House”: Built by Stedman Willard in 1840 on land he purchased from Samuel Morey two years earlier, this represents the last of the homes to be built on the area known as “The Ridge” in Orford, NH. Cited for its classic lines, with two chimneys on either side of the structure, this simplified Greek Revival home has evolved into one of the areas most stately properties. High ceilings, original wood floors, detailed moldings, and formal spaces hearken to a time of elegance and a slower pace of life. This 16-room expanse has six bedrooms and five full baths, a large and functional kitchen, and a lovely family room at the back of the ell that serves as the hub of the less formal spaces. The front stairway ascends to a gentle curve at the second floor, perhaps in tribute to other homes on the Ridge with a similar detail. The wide, pillared front porch, added just after 1905, is just the place to relax and take in the peaceful scenery. The grounds are exquisite, with lush gardens, mature trees, walkways, expansive lawns, and a wonderful barn. In the same family for over 80 years, this home represents an opportunity to own a piece of history in one of the regions most significant architectural developments. Professor Hugh Morrison, architectural authority and retired professor of architecture at Dartmouth College has said of the houses on the ridge: "As a row and counting the setting, this is the finest group of Federal-style houses in the United States."
About The Ridge
The Ridge is part of the Historic District, and the significance of the District is emphasized by the setting of the seven houses, well back from the road on the eminence of the Ridge, and by the tree-shaded Mall extending along the street the entire half mile of the District with buildings on both sides of the street. The beauty of Orford Street has merited and continues to merit the praise and admiration of visitors. Washington Irving, after a visit to Orford, wrote: "In all my travels in this country and Europe, I have seen no village more beautiful. It is a charming place. Nature has done her utmost here."
An unusual and admired feature of the District is the Orford Mall, publicized as early as the mid-1800's in the Boston Evening Traveler. A letter to the editor recommended a visit to Orford, "the most charming country village" the writer had ever seen, and said "...look at that mall,. .level as a house floor - straight as a line, and skirted with trees on both sides. Is there a parallel to this in the whole country?"
About the Area
Situated near the Connecticut River in New Hampshire's verdant Upper Valley, Orford is a classic, rural New England town rich with history and inspiring landscapes. A short, 20-minute drive separates Orford from Hanover's Dartmouth College, and is only a quick jaunt over the bridge to the neighboring Vermont towns of Fairlee, West Fairlee, and Vershire. In the tradition of Upper Valley community relations and because of their close proximity, Orford partnered with the three Vermont towns across the river and formed an interstate K-12 school district.
The homes in Orford have a distinct historic Federal style, and there are farms spread around the mostly forested land. The mountain peaks, ponds, and the Connecticut River create the perfect environment for outdoor activities, like boating, hiking, snowshoeing, and hunting. At the summit of Mount Cube, residents can pick up the Appalachian Trail. The Cross-Rivendell Trail connects Orford to Vermont's lush open meadows and valleys. Because of its location, Orford is close to many other area attractions, including the Franconia Notch State Park and Cannon Ski Resort, and of course, the ever-popular Lake Winnipesaukee.
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