Historic Queen Anne Home in Preston Lists for $899,900

A distinctive Queen Anne-style home in Preston, Cambridge, has recently been listed for sale at $899,900. This property, located just a short walk from the bustling Preston Towne Centre, stands as a significant link to the area’s architectural heritage. Built in 1905, the residence at 543 Queenston Rd. reflects the craftsmanship of renowned local architect Frederick William Mellish, known for his influential designs that helped shape the region.

Mellish was instrumental in creating several notable buildings in Cambridge, including the original Galt Hospital (1889), the Carnegie Library (1903), and the original Galt Fire Department building (1898). His work is characterized by a blend of contemporary trends and local architectural elements that continue to resonate in the community today.

The home, described by Shaw Hasyj from Shaw Realty Group, offers a unique experience for potential buyers. “Right when you walk through the front door, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time,” he remarked. The property showcases intricate gingerbread trim, leaded windows, and even a functioning turn-style doorbell that still rings as it did over a century ago.

Only three families have resided in this two-and-a-half-storey home since its construction during Preston’s industrial boom. The second family acquired the property in 1962 and maintained its historic charm for six decades. The current owners have made modern updates while ensuring the home retains its character, which has led the Cambridge municipal heritage advisory committee to recognize it as culturally significant.

Inside, the home features bright living and dining areas with high ceilings, connected by elegant glass-panel pocket doors. A fireplace, once converted to coal, remains a striking focal point in the living room. The dining area boasts a bay window bench and a built-in china cabinet, both original to the house. “You can tell whoever built this had money,” Hasyj noted, emphasizing the quality craftsmanship evident throughout the property.

The second floor includes three bedrooms and a family bathroom that still showcases its claw-foot tub and pedestal sink. The attic, although unfinished, has been cleaned and sealed, offering a versatile space that could be transformed into a luxurious primary suite or creative studio.

Many of the home’s original details remain intact, including pegged oak floors, solid-wood trim, and brass door hardware. “If the kitchen were more period, the whole main floor would feel exactly like it did in 1905,” Hasyj added. Recent updates have focused on maintaining this historic essence, with restoration efforts on the exterior cedar shakes, chimneys, and window casings completed in 2023.

The property’s 58-by-143-foot lot features gardens shaded by century-old trees, providing a serene outdoor environment. A detached garage is located at the end of a long driveway, complementing the property’s character. The surrounding neighborhood reflects a similar charm, characterized by quiet streets and enduring homes. “People here don’t move often,” Hasyj explained, noting the previous family’s sixty-year residency.

The ideal buyer for this property is likely a family seeking space, character, and a connection to history. The listing price was determined after extensive market analysis, taking into account comparable homes, recent updates, and lot size. According to GeoWarehouse, the home last sold for $810,000 in May 2022, and the previous owners purchased it for just $13,000 in January 1962.

As interest in historic properties continues to grow, this Queen Anne beauty stands ready to attract buyers who appreciate both its aesthetic and historical significance. An open house is scheduled for Sunday, November 2, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, providing a unique opportunity for potential buyers to experience this remarkable home firsthand.