Constructed in 1860 by renowned author, world traveler, and diplomat Bayard Taylor, Cedarcroft is arguably one of the most iconic homes in the state and celebrated historic homes in the tri-state area. In 1972, Cedarcroft was added to the National Historic Registry by the U.S. Department of Interior. Taylor was widely known for his extraordinary travels, literary works, travel books, poetry, and was the first author to pen the folklore tale, “Beauty and the Beast.” Cedarcroft became a gathering place and artist colony for some of the most prominent literary figures of the 19th century. Among its legendary guests were Ralph Waldo Emerson, John Greenleaf Whittier, James Russell Lowell, and Horace Greeley. Taylor himself is said to have overseen the construction of the home, a magnificent brick Italianate residence that he described as “large and stately, simple in its forms, without much ornament … expressive of strength and ornament.” Cedarcroft remains an exceptional example of its period, thoughtfully updated while retaining the character and grandeur that define this remarkable property. The first floor features impressive 13-foot ceilings and a gracious Entry Hall anchored by a grand staircase leading to the upper levels. The spacious Living Room and Family Room—each feature handsome fireplaces, and are separated by a Billiards Room. The elegant Dining Room off the Foyer, the Family Room, and Kitchen, is highlighted by another beautiful fireplace. The well-appointed Kitchen is also conveniently accessible from the Entry Hall and features a comfortable Breakfast Area. Just beyond the Kitchen, the back hall provides access to a Pantry and Powder Room. A spacious Mud Room is located adjacent to the Kitchen and offers a practical transition to the attached two-car garage, providing exceptional convenience for everyday living. The second level, with 11 foot ceilings, features a spacious Primary Suite with fireplace, en-suite bath, and a generous walk-in closet and dressing area. Through the dressing area is a second master bedroom with its own fireplace and access to the walk-in closet. Four additional second floor bedrooms, one with en-suite bath, provide exceptional flexibility. The second floor also includes three bathrooms and a laundry room with kitchenette. The homes truly unique Tower offers a charming retreat with three additional levels, each with its own HVAC system. Whether envisioned as a private reading room, creative studio, or simply a quiet place to take in the views, these distinctive spaces invite the imagination. The Tower’s balcony is off the 4th floor of the Tower. The home’s third floor includes an additional bedroom and storage rooms, as well as the air-handling equipment serving the home's central air-conditioning and heating system. The basement is accessed from the garage and includes a root cellar with tremendous potential for restoration into a spectacular wine cellar—an opportunity befitting a home of this stature. The current owner has lovingly undertaken extensive updates to the property's systems, including a new roof, updated electrical, installation of a geothermal heating and cooling system, and connection to public water and sewer, as well as a new kitchen, laundry room and powder room. These tasteful updates provide modern infrastructure while preserving the home's historic character. Set on 2.3 picturesque acres within the highly regarded Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, Cedarcroft represents a rare opportunity to own not simply a historic home, but a genuine piece of American history. Properties of this stature and significance rarely come to market, making Cedarcroft an extraordinary offering for the discerning buyer who appreciates architecture, history, and the enduring legacy of a truly remarkable home. You can read more about Cedarcroft’s history and influence on American culture and architecture on its Wikipedia page.
