Historic House Listings

Look inside this former rec center! Circa 1900 in New York. $380,000

September 15, 2026

This is pretty cool! It’s a former rec center and originally part of the Hazard Estate. It was constructed in 1900. It is located on .79 acre in Solvay, New York. The house features wrap around porches, wood floors, spacious kitchen, baseboards, built-in corner china cabinets, chair rails and a screened in porch. There is a second kitchen on the lower level of the home. The house was designed by the same architects of Carnegie Libraries. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms and 2,660 square feet. $380,000

Contact Matthew Salvagno with Hunt Real Estate ERA: 315-682-7197

From the Zillow listing:

 

Own a piece of Solvay/Geddes history in the Piercefield neighborhood! Originally part of the Hazard Estate, this distinctive home was first constructed as a recreation center before being thoughtfully converted into a one-of-a-kind single-family residence. Designed by 20th Century architects Merrick and Randall, the same firm responsible for the Carnegie Library buildings also located in the area. Rich in character, it blends Craftsman and Tudor-inspired architectural details with modern updates designed for today’s lifestyle. Surrounded by mature trees on a private wooded lot, the home is tucked away from the road and welcomes you with expansive wraparound porches that invite you to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting. Inside, the current owners have transformed the main living area by opening the wall between the kitchen and living spaces, creating a flowing layout ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The updated kitchen features a generous center island, eat-in dining area, and overlooks a charming herb garden just outside the side entrance, while a hidden “secret garden” offers another delightful outdoor retreat. The main level also includes a formal dining room, a spacious living room with a fireplace that opens directly to the screened-in porch, plus a full bath and convenient first-floor laundry. Upstairs, you’ll find three comfortable bedrooms and an additional full bath. The finished walkout lower level—with its own private entrance option—provides exceptional flexibility as an in-law or teen suite, complete with a full kitchen, living area, bedroom, and spa-inspired full bath. A pleasant surprise awaits beyond the home: a flat, level backyard filled with mature perennial gardens, creating a true gardener’s paradise. Recent mechanical improvements—including a newer roof, Andersen windows, driveway, and several GE mini-split systems providing efficient air conditioning—offer added peace of mind. Steeped in local history yet thoughtfully updated for modern living, this truly one-of-a-kind home is a rare opportunity that must be seen to be fully appreciated.

 

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