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Listing broker remarks

Once part of the 300-acre Cogswell Estate and family-owned from the 1630s through the 1930s, this exceptional home embodies the timeless beauty and character of a bygone era. Originally built as a hunting lodge, the home retains an impressive collection of historic details, including original antique floorboards, an oversized brick fireplace, magnificent post-and-beam construction, and beautiful barn-wood doors. Surrounded by mature trees and framed by historic stone walls, the property offers a rare combination of elegance, privacy, and a profound sense of place. Two decks overlook the broad, open lawn, creating an exceptional setting for outdoor entertaining, gatherings, or simply enjoying the peaceful grounds. Thoughtful improvements enhance the home's comfort and functionality, including four (4) Bosch mini-split air-conditioning units, an upgraded primary suite, new kitchen appliances, and a new 200-amp electrical panel. The residence is thoughtfully arranged across two wings. The principal wing encompasses the main living spaces, including the dining room, living room, library, kitchen, and breakfast area. The second wing provides private sleeping quarters and a spacious family room, offering an ideal separation between living and entertaining spaces. Most recently configured as a two-bedroom residence, town records recognize the property as a three-bedroom home, with the additional bedroom readily achievable through minor alterations. For those seeking additional living space, the dry, open and clean walk-out basement has high ceilings with cement floors and walls, offering excellent potential for future finishing or an ideal workshop space. Rich in history, architectural integrity, and privacy, this is a truly special property—an authentic piece of Old Americana with the character and presence of a distinguished country estate.— J. Barrett & Company

Key details

  • 2,141 sq ft
  • 3 beds
  • 2 baths
  • 1900 built
  • $450 / sq ft
  • $10,502 2025 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠6⁠7⁠6⁠5⁠0⁠
Last updated
Address
7 John Wise Ave
Unit
2
Town
Essex, MA
ZIP
01929
Deed (Bk/Pg)
42523 / 276

Historic designations

MACRIS Inventory
Northern Avenue Streetscape

What this means for buyers →

Map

Neighborhood: Essex

National Historic Landmark

Federally designated as nationally significant — the highest U.S. historic recognition. Section 106 review applies to federal undertakings affecting the property.

National Register

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners may qualify for the 20% federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit on certified rehabilitation work.

State Register

Listed on the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places.

Local Historic District

Inside a Local Historic District. Exterior changes visible from a public way require approval from the local historic district commission.

Local Landmark

Individually designated by the town as a local landmark. Exterior alterations require commission approval.

MACRIS Inventory

Documented in MACRIS, the state historic inventory. Informational only — no regulatory constraints.

Article 85 (Boston)

Subject to Boston Article 85 demolition-delay review, which can pause demolition of buildings 50+ years old for up to 90 days.

Ch. 91 Waterways License

An active MassDEP permit for a dock, pier, seawall, or other structure on or over a Massachusetts waterway. Many older licenses are not digitized; this record is provided for reference only.

Massachusetts Great Pond

A Great Pond under M.G.L. Ch. 91 — the Commonwealth retains public rights to fish and navigate these state-designated waters. Private docks and other waterfront structures require a Waterways License from MassDEP.

Likely Great Pond

The MLS listing describes this property as being on a Great Pond, which would be a state-designated water body under M.G.L. Ch. 91. GIS data did not independently confirm the pond name — verification needed.