By Danielle Schipani
With charming historical character and a beautiful view, the “Mostly Oaks” estate at 59 S Shrewsbury Drive stands out in Rumson.
The iconic Rumson home was originally custom crafted in 1877. The home was built in Monmouth Beach and moved to its current location during the early 1900’s.
The home has an interesting history, in that it was moved across the Shrewsbury River via a barge. This was not uncommon at the time, said Rumson historian Roberta Van Anda. Homeowners took this action to protect their homes from damaging storms that plagued the shore area around the turn of the century.
“The weather had become dangerous so they picked up the homes and moved them to Rumson,” said Roberta Van Anda, the author of Legendary Locals of Rumson. “When you have a couple of these storms every few years, people want to move them and this was done regularly.”
The house is finished on the interior with the original wood paneling throughout, hence the name “Mostly Oaks.” “The house has beautiful interior woodwork and architectural details,” said Van Anda.
“I’d say the most interesting aspect is the wood beadboard style trim on the interior of the home – its something you see rarely, and to see it on such a large scale throughout the home is quite rare,” said listing agent Mario Venancio.
The historic home contains a wood burning fireplace in the living and dining rooms.
“Mostly Oaks” has been preserved and restored by the current owners, the fourth to hold the keys, in an effort to retain the original charm but update the property with modern amenities like a pool and tennis court, as well as a riparian grant to the water.
The exterior resembles the exact design from more than a century ago when it was built. Inside, there are beamed ceilings, wood floors, and new kitchens and bathroom.
Refurbished features of the home include a brand new kitchen with custom cabinets, a breakfast area, center island, French doors, and professional appliances. The master bedroom offers a walk-in closet and full-bath with double sinks, a shower stall, and a Ritz-Carlton style bathtub.
There are seven bedrooms, five full bathrooms, and two half-baths in the colonial style home.
The single family home is on sale for $2.599 million. Listing agent Mario Venancio can be reached at 732-881-4306.
