For just $825K you can live like a governor’s daughter in this historic victorian home
For only $825,000 you can own a home fit for a princess, or at least for a governor’s daughter. The Emma Flower Taylor Mansion is the historic Watertown home of its namesake and her husband John Byron Taylor. The 14,000-square-foot residence was built in 1896 as a wedding present from Mrs. Taylor’s father, former New York Governor and financier Roswell Pettibone Flower. He recruited acclaimed architects Lamb and Rich to create the palace-like home perfect for his only daughter. Today, the 14 bedroom, nine bathroom mansion is divided into eight separate apartments; however, it has still retained the regal Victorian look that’s made this home a cherished piece of New York history.
Elegance greets you even before you enter the doors of this nearly 120 year-old home with large glass doors that are cast in beautiful iron filigree. At first glance, the lobby seems somewhat minimal, but this expansive space, once used as a waiting room for visitors, features a coffered ceiling adorned with quirky pendant lights. The multicolored tiles around the fireplace give off a shimmering effect, while the coat of arms and family crest add a very personal historic touch.
The Great Room is undoubtedly the grandest of the house. Certainly, Mrs. Taylor used it often to entertain the many millionaires who resided in Watertown in the early 20th century, and with a raised dais near the rear of the room, she had an ideal platform to host small performances.
Seven stunning, original fireplaces are spread throughout the mansion, serving as functional works of art.
Also original to the mansion is the stained glass designed by Lamb Studios. It’s been stored in the attic for nearly 60 years and is in impeccable condition.
The large covered porch extends the length of the house, wrapping around the entire front.
The Taylor mansion has not changed much since its construction in 1896. Each delicate detail of the house remains true to its black and white photos. Watertown, however, is no longer the playground of the wealthy, though it remains the most bustling city near the Canadian border.
[Listing: Emma Flower Taylor Brownstone Mansion by Michael R. Franklin of Franklin Ruttan Unique Property Specialists]
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Photos via Franklin Ruttan