1791 Home With a Rich Maritime History and Jaw-Dropping Original Features Hits the Market in Salem for $1 Million

A historic Massachusetts home that was built just four years after the U.S. Constitution was signed has hit the market for $1 million—complete with a trove of original design details, from hand-forged nails to a stunning fireplace.

The 1791 property, which is located in Salem, MA, was built by shipwright Thomas Rowell before later passing to Edward Augustus Holyoke, a physician who practiced medicine in Salem for more than 70 years and was also the former president of the Massachusetts Medical Society.

Situated just steps from the Salem Maritime National Historic Park, the four-bedroom abode is steeped in local history, right down to the nails that hold its original wooden beams together.

"The architectural history of the home is just incredible," listing agent Louise Brochu of Cameron Prestige LLC revealed. "It still has hand-forged nails, a functioning beehive oven, and a Rumford fireplace. It's like walking back in time when you step inside, but it has all of the modern amenities."

Per the listing, the property's original design features tell a fascinating story about its origins, with a QR code included in the home's information linking to a detailed account of its conception and construction.

According to a 1986 report on the property, which was conducted by the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the home's design reveals some of the "hardships" that many were experiencing in the late 18th century.

"While the Rowell home survived nearly 230 years and its structural integrity remains sound, the house today minimally reflects the hardships of the time," the report states.

The commission also discovered that the property was likely built over a lengthy period of time, during which its many owners expanded on the original structure that was built for Rowell and his wife, Hannah.

"This house is an early survivor which shows how dwellings were often altered over time...," the report continues.

However, the report verified that many of the home's most impressive features were installed when it was first built, including the fireplaces, which reflect a design trend that was common at the time.

"There is a fireplace in the dining room that has a bread oven," Brochu notes. "Off of the kitchen, there is a little room that they think was once used as a shop to sell goods."

Other period details found inside the 2,326-square-foot interior are dual staircases, built-ins, hand-hewn beams, wide-plank floors, and several additional fireplaces.

However, Brochu makes clear that the majority of the house has been tastefully modernized to provide a truly luxurious experience—albeit one that pays elegant homage to its original design.

A modernized kitchen boasts quartz countertops, high-end appliances, and marble and porcelain finishes. Sliding glass doors from the dining area open up to a spacious deck for entertaining.

Other recent updates include the installation of central air conditioning, a newly installed furnace and hot water tank, and a redone brick driveway.

A spacious primary suite with vaulted ceilings and exposed beams has a walk-in closet and wood-burning fireplace. A home office found on the third floor could also be transformed into an additional bedroom or fitness center.

Along with Salem’s rich historical roots and the property’s connection to both maritime craftsmanship and early American medicine, the 18th-century home also features a beautiful backyard surrounded by perennial gardens.

"The sellers would like the next buyer to be someone who will continue to honor the home's history," she said. "They will be more of a steward than an owner. That's how they felt about owning it."

The property last traded hands for $665,000 in 2020. Brochu believes the next owner will likely use it as a primary residence like the sellers did.

"It's located in the Derby Street neighborhood, which is one of the oldest and most intact districts in Salem," she said. "Salem Commons is less than a five-minute walk; it's steps to the ferry, minutes away from downtown. The House of Seven Gables is just a stone's throw away as well as Salem Harbor."