17639 MASON DIXON RD Hagerstown, MD 21740

THIS HOME, DESCRIBED IN HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS AS "elegant and modern", "fine and commodious", still retains the fine character and charm implied by early descriptions. The footprint remains as originally built, with only the enclosure of two porches as structural changes. The story begins in 1866 when a retiring civil war surgeon returns from the battlefield of La Verne, TN and built this home for his bride. Dr. Victor Davis Miller's legacy here in this home, raising his family and operating his medical practice, proved to be instrumental in local history. Through his efforts and those of his sons, who also practiced medicine, Washington County, MD benefited from their contributions to local medical practices, to establishment of Washington County Historical Society (Miller House), to the funding of Washington County Free Library, as well as local political and financial realms. (See linked documents).
From the first view beneath the porch's fretwork through every transomed doorway, you are met with the gracious and generous embrace of the home's history. Original doors and deeply shaped trim work are consistent throughout the home. The spacious front parlor is a show stopper with floor length windows that actually lift up through the 10.5' high ceiling, enabling them to be walked through! A bay window alcove begs for a baby grand piano or a deep easy chair and a great novel in hand. Original plaster crown mounding and an original ornate plaster ceiling medallion set this room apart as a place of elegance. A gorgeous crystal chandelier sparkles beneath a remarkable designer painted ceiling. The living room and dining room are divided by wide 10' high pocket doors; these generously sized rooms feature coordinating chandeliers and designer ceiling detail. The beautiful staircase leads to the 2nd floor bedrooms with a 3rd floor bonus room for your dreams and hobbies. Restored plaster and trim work wipe away the effects of 158 years of life's normal wear and tear. Bathrooms have all been renovated with great care. Designer tile work and custom cabinetry set off the main bathroom as a gem of function and thoughtful design. Bedrooms fill with natural light from the tall windows and lead you to the landscape beyond. Down the back staircase, the cooks of the family will relish the modern adaptations made in the kitchen. A combination of vintage and designer features creates timeless perfection in the renovated heart of this home. New GE profile double wall ovens, new professional Thermador gas cooktop, powerful exhaust fan, warming drawer, and a GE Monogram refrigerator equip the cooks for any occasion. Granite countertops, custom tile backsplash, two sinks, loads of storage, and highly efficient layout keep the family cook happy. Huge butcher block island is perfect for cookies, bread, pasta, and carving the perfect prime rib or Thanksgiving turkey. Whether canning the garden's bounty, cooking for a small family, or 150 wedding guests, this kitchen has proven its worth and will rise to every challenge you ask of it. Life in this home is embraced by a landscape of jaw dropping beauty. Surrounded by its own well-developed and manicured gardens and lawn, the western horizon beyond your fences paints the sky and the open farmland every evening. A fine original bank barn stands near the home creating a courtyard feel. Built when transport meant a horse and carriage, there was certainly a history of horses and livestock for a country gentleman. So bring your horses, start your flock...the future is yours to define here. 3 fenced pastures each have run-in shelters, electric outlets and automatic waterers in place. And the chicken house has been built with such charm that caring for the chickens is more like visiting tiny neighbors than performing a daily chore. So much more; raised box gardens; and located between 2 ski resorts and 2 civil war sites. A rare find to start your family's story!