Calling all Lancaster County, PA, history buffs: One of the oldest, most storied homes in the area just came on the market for $799,900.

The pre-Revolution-era dwelling known locally as the Martic Forge Mansion is quite possibly one of the oldest and best-preserved properties of its kind, notes listing agent Shane Kuhns, of Berkshire Hathaway.

“The main structure was built between 1715 and 1725 with the large east wing built in the early 1800s,” Kuhns says. “The dates alone make this home certainly one of the oldest in the area. For reference, the Hans Herr House on Willow Street is the oldest homestead in Lancaster County, and it was built in 1719.”

The stone house is considered by many to be a prime example of high-style Pennsylvania German design. At its height, the house was part of a 3,400-acre tract of land belonging to the Martic Iron Co., which continued its operations until 1872.

Storied spot

This rural estate offers much more than just charm. Its notable residents once included Anne Coleman, the fiancee of James Buchanan, who was 15th president of the United States.

The daughter of wealthy ironmasters, Coleman broke off the engagement to Buchanan shortly before she died, leaving a heartbroken future president.

“After her death, he vowed to never love a woman again,” Kuhns says. To this day, Buchanan is the only U.S. president who never married.

Original elements

The seven-bedroom, two-bath house still has several original fireplaces as well as some of the woodwork.

The 5,264-square-foot property also comes with a detached two-bedroom guesthouse, complete with a full bath and kitchen. There’s also a two-car garage with livable space that could be developed.

The Martoc Creek runs through the mansion’s 4-acre lot, which sits against the Enola Low-Grade Trail.

Home with history

Long before Coleman’s father (who also happened to be one of the nation’s first millionaires) inherited the property, it was a simple ironmaster’s home and an integral part of a larger company that manufactured metal farm implements, domestic goods, and even cannons for George Washington during the Revolutionary War.

Michael Hillegas, first treasurer of the United States, was also a resident of the historic home.

The post Calling All History Buffs: Here’s Your Chance To Buy a Pre-Revolution Home for Under $1M appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.