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Listing broker remarks

Distinguished brick country estate built for William R. Moody, eldest son and successor of Dwight L. Moody, founder of the Northfield Seminary School. Thoughtfully updated while preserving its original character. Three-and-a-half levels of living space featuring exquisite architectural details, period craftsmanship, timeless millwork, custom cabinetry, exceptional built-ins, and three working fireplaces. A gracious foyer with original staircases introduces living spaces rich in character and craftsmanship. The kitchen is complemented by a walk-in pantry and butler's pantry, while south-facing windows and a sun-filled conservatory overlook gardens, fruit trees, pool, and gazebo. Set on 5.67 acres with paddocks, a four-stall stable, and a carriage-style barn with one stall, tack room, run-in shed, and two-car garage, the property borders state land with miles of trails. Minutes to Northfield Center and the New Hampshire border. A rare opportunity to own a piece of Northfield's history.— Fitzgerald Real Estate

Key details

  • 4,555 sq ft
  • 5.67 acres
  • 5 beds
  • 3.5 baths
  • 1903 built
  • $216 / sq ft
  • $9,568 2025 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠5⁠2⁠0⁠8⁠7⁠
Last updated
Address
237 Birnam Road
Town
Northfield, MA
ZIP
01360
Deed (Bk/Pg)
7537 / 93

Historic designations

MACRIS Inventory
Moody, William R. - Davis, Charles W. House · includes NFL.D

What this means for buyers →

Map

Neighborhood: Northfield

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.