Welcome to the Jewell Farmstead
Rarely does a home of this vintage and quality become available for sale in West Windsor. Established by the Jewell family, reportedly in 1768, this is one of the oldest, continuously owned and occupied homes in town. The Jewells were thought to be English and loyal to the King of England and we make note of the carefully restored parlor that was designed in the Gothic Revival style in the 1830's. These were prosperous times for the local farmers and this was no ordinary farm house! Notice the high ceilings, generous moldings, plentiful windows and a gracious center hall entry way. The study, located off of the living room is currently used as a dining room because that's what felt "right" to this family.
Stories abound of fruit orchards among the rich soil of West Windsor and it has been said that visiting English gentry would stop and purchase the peaches on the honor system that were left on tables by the road. The home passed through the hands of several Jewell descendants and was eventually sold to Max Zaitz and his family and used as a horse, cattle and vegetable farm for many decades.
Purchased in 1998 as a two acre parcel with a house, large barn and corn crib, the property has lovingly evolved and is now something of a gentleman's farm. Previously exposed to the road, hundreds of trees and bushes were planted to shield the home and yard. Approached by a winding drive which terminates in a large, landscaped circle, the grounds boast beautiful perennial plantings, appropriate to the English heritage of the original owners.
The current owner purchased the property in 2012 and has continued to lovingly update the property grounds with the addition of a stamped concrete patio area, cozy firepit area, and volley ball court. In keeping with the gentleman’s farm theme the current owners added a garden with raised beds and a chicken coop for fresh eggs.
The original home had a "four over four" design, and at some point, a family room was added with a working fireplace, an attached laundry room, and a full bathroom. Over the family room is the fourth bedroom, or guest room which works well for guests having their own wing, removed from the main living space. The current “bonus” room was originally used as a dining room, immediately adjacent to the updated kitchen. Careful thought went into planning the farm kitchen with bead board cabinets, a white enamel farm sink and today's conveniences of granite counters, Miele dishwasher and high end, Wolf stove and hood which exhausts to the exterior.
The three main bedrooms are surprisingly large, all with generous closets, unheard of in antique homes! The master with its high ceiling is almost 500 square feet in size and could easily have a full bathroom installed along the front wall. Another possibility for expansion would be to move the master suite to the walk -up attic, a plan considered by the current residents.
The huge barn has many uses as well. It has been home to fabulous parties. It would also work well as an artist's space or photography studio. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination, so become the next family to enjoy this homestead and leave your mark on local history!
