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Listing broker remarks

Richardson Tavern offers the individuality of historic New England architecture, thoughtfully reimagined for contemporary life. Set on 2.5 acres and surrounded by conservation land, this spacious five-bedroom residence has been carefully renovated for modern living. A beautifully updated kitchen and baths and restrained contemporary aesthetic sit comfortably alongside the classic architecture. Nine fireplaces, original mantels, doors and period details have been preserved, giving the interiors their distinctive character. The former ballroom, with its striking vaulted ceiling, is now an expansive family and entertaining room. Beyond the main residence, a three-story, 1,400 sq. ft. barn and separate 600 sq. ft. studio provide substantial additional space for gathering, working, fitness, art, hobbies or other pursuits. The setting is an important part of life here. Tennis, pickleball, basketball and baseball facilities and a farmers market are next door, while lakes, trails and skiing are a short drive away. Easy access to major routes connects the property to Worcester, Boston, airports and the wider region—offering a distinctly New England setting with convenient access to cultural, commercial and business centers. Once a tavern, the property also carries a remarkable history, with ties to George Washington and accounts of Lafayette and Paul Revere among its guests. A classic New England home whose history has been preserved, its interiors reconsidered, and its next chapter made distinctly contemporary. Updates include Roof (2021), Electric is 200 AMP, 11 zone heating system (approx. 2013), Oil tank (2020), kitchen completely renovated (2019), 5 bedroom septic system (2016), Bathrooms (2025), exterior paint (2025), dedicated heating/cooling system in ballroom (2025)— OPEN DOOR Real Estate

Key details

  • 4,176 sq ft
  • 2.47 acres
  • 5 beds
  • 3 baths
  • 1760 built
  • $245 / sq ft
  • $6,570 2025 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠7⁠8⁠3⁠2⁠4⁠
Last updated
Address
321 Princeton Rd
Town
Sterling, MA
ZIP
01564
Deed (Bk/Pg)
56308 / 198

Historic designations

MACRIS Inventory
Richardson Granary - Hay Barn · includes STE.440, STE.89, STE.T

What this means for buyers →

Map

Neighborhood: Sterling

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.