NEWPORT, RI – July 29, 2020 – Lila Delman Real Estate is pleased to introduce the ‘Peabody Schoolhouse’, 195 Third Beach Road in Middletown, to market. Kate Leonard, Lila Delman Sales Associate and one of Newport County’s top five sales associates in 2019, is representing the property.* A unique, country retreat, situated very close to Middletown’s beautiful beaches but with easy access to main roads, the Newport-Pell Bridge and convenient shopping, this beautiful property is in an ideal location. Built in 1794 and first converted to use as a summer retreat in 1929, the old red schoolhouse, has been updated and lovingly restored by owner and noted residential designer John Peixinho.

The beautifully maintained, estate-like grounds include a magical stone-lined brook that winds its way north to south through the property, original stone walls, and substantial rhododendron borders. Mature, specimen trees abound and include a beautiful Variegated Pagoda Dogwood, Miniature Weeping Beech, Walking Stick Tree, London Plane Tree, and Contorted Willow. A rustic outdoor porch provides three season outdoor living space in the midst of this beautiful setting. A small storage barn with large screen doors has been converted to a charming and unique studio/living room.

The Schoolhouse itself abounds with charm. Its two south-facing doors were the original entrances to the large school room – now the living room. This open and airy space is large enough to provide seating for three groups and also features French doors that lead to the outdoor living areas. The living room also includes a cozy built-in window seat and a large wood-burning fireplace with an early 19th century Newport mantle and a surround of aubergine-colored Dutch delft tiles.  One of the school’s two original coat rooms remains and now functions as an entrance hall, while the other has been enlarged and now serves as a charming, light-filled dining room.  Traditionally, this room has also been used as a first floor bedroom. The first floor also includes a full bath and a spacious light-filled country kitchen, with breakfast area. The second floor includes two bedrooms and one bath. The bright south-facing bedroom includes the soaring bell tower – still complete with the original, functioning school bell.

The ‘Peabody Schoolhouse’ is a unique and rare opportunity. It offers a beautiful country retreat that is truly unsurpassed in today’s busy world. Its park-like grounds are manageably maintained but afford a private estate-like setting. The charming house is a welcome oasis in summer months and a wonderful get-a-way in the winter. Last sold privately, this is the first time this special property has been listed and offered publicly in over 20 years. For more information, or to schedule a private viewing, contact Kate Leonard at 401.952.3461.

*This representation is based on information from the Rhode Island State Wide MLS for the period of January 1, 2019December 31, 2019.