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Listing broker remarks

Enjoy living in this Folly Cove property where artist and author Virginia Lee Burton did her life's work. This delightful estate is the well-preserved subject of her children's book "The Little House" The 3.9 acre property includes a sunny farmhouse as well as a separate barn/studio, each of which have been featured in many publications. Virginia wrote her books in the studio and it is also where the Folly Cove Design Group was formed and met. The house has 4 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths and the historic post and beam studio has a 20' granite fireplace and cathedral ceilings, providing comfort and privacy for guests. Unique features include large granite tables, benches and a cozy firepit. Granite pillars support trailing grapevines and near-by is a quarry and hiking /biking trails. Fruit and nut trees and berry bushes, as well as vegetable and flower gardens complement the yard. This is a magical property with plenty of privacy and parking that lends itself to indoor and outdoor events.— Coldwell Banker Realty - Beverly

Key details

  • 1,464 sq ft
  • 3.90 acres
  • 4 beds
  • 2.5 baths
  • 1920 built
  • $1,021 / sq ft
  • $10,852 2026 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠5⁠0⁠2⁠8⁠2⁠
Last updated
Address
1255 Washington Street
Town
Gloucester, MA
ZIP
01930
Deed (Bk/Pg)
16674 / 189

Map

Neighborhood: Folly Cove

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.