Apr 13, 2022
The Skillings-Manny House, an important example of Ruskinian Gothic architecture protected in Historic New England’s Preservation Easement Program, is for sale in Winchester, Massachusetts. Situated on a large house lot with mature plantings in the historic Rangeley Park development, the property’s original character and materials remain remarkably intact.
Constructed from 1875 to 1876 to designs by Boston architect George D. Rand (1833-1910), the house features brick laid in elaborate patterns as well as brownstone and tar-dipped black brick that create a polychromatic effect. Minton tiles from England decorate the front chimney. David Skillings, a lumber baron, built the house and finished the interior with walnut doors and Eastlake built-ins. The residence was erected as part of an enclave on his estate, adjacent to Winchester center and the train station to Boston. With sweeping lawns and mature oaks, the picturesque park-like setting was an example of model suburban planning, presented in the American Architect and Building News in June of 1877 and since then in national magazines and books.
The exterior elevations of the house and garage are to be preserved, with deteriorated materials to be replaced in kind. In addition, the first and second floors of the house are to be maintained, except for the kitchen and bathrooms, which may be updated to meet the needs of modern living. Historic New England will work closely with future owners to ensure that alterations are done in a sensitive and reversible manner.
The house is part of Historic New England’s Preservation Easement Program, a national model for saving privately owned historic buildings.
For more information
Skillings-Manny House is listed for sale with Nancy Pallotta, Leading Edge Real Estate, 781-258-0722, 2 Mount Vernon Street, Winchester, MA 01890.