Grand 1850 Victorian Estate on 4.28 Acres in Chatham, Virginia

In the historic heart of Chatham, this magnificent 1850 Victorian home stands as one of the area’s most compelling architectural offerings. Set on 4.28 acres, this stately residence blends commanding presence, remarkable scale, and flexible living arrangements—creating an extraordinary opportunity for a primary residence, multi-generational home, or elegant Bed & Breakfast venture.

Offered at $399,900, 117 Reid Street presents nearly 6,000 square feet of living space with 7 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, all positioned within one of Southern Virginia’s most distinguished small towns.

A Landmark Home in a Distinguished Academic Community

Chatham is widely recognized for its heritage and prestige, serving as home to Hargrave Military Academy and Chatham Hall. The presence of these historic institutions contributes to the town’s refined atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and architectural preservation.

Situated just moments from the center of town, this grand Victorian estate offers both privacy and proximity—ideal for hosting guests, accommodating extended family, or establishing a boutique hospitality experience.

Timeless Victorian Architecture with Expansive Living Space

Built in 1850, this home showcases the generous proportions and craftsmanship characteristic of mid-19th-century design. With 5,944 square feet, the layout is both impressive and versatile.

First Floor – Dual Living Potential

The main level is uniquely configured, offering:

A welcoming foyer
Two spacious living rooms
Two formal dining rooms
Two bedrooms
Two kitchens
Two full bathrooms

This arrangement provides remarkable flexibility. Whether we envision a private in-law suite, caretaker’s quarters, or a fully functional dual-living setup for a Bed & Breakfast operation, the infrastructure is already in place. Few historic homes offer this level of built-in adaptability.

The dual kitchens alone create endless possibilities—ideal for hospitality use, large gatherings, or private quarters separated from guest areas.

Second Floor – Five Additional Bedrooms

Upstairs, we find five additional bedrooms, each filled with natural light and historic character. Currently, one room is utilized as an office and another as a study/library, demonstrating how easily the space adapts to modern living needs.

The second floor also includes a full bathroom, comfortably serving the upper level.

With seven total bedrooms, this home is exceptionally well-suited for:

Large families
Multi-generational living
Short-term rental or Bed & Breakfast conversion
Retreat-style accommodations

Third Floor Attic – 1,500 Square Feet of Untapped Potential

One of the most exciting features of this property is the expansive 1,500-square-foot attic on the third level. With proper finishing, this space could become:

A luxurious owner’s suite
Additional guest accommodations
A studio, recreation space, or event area
Private rental quarters

This untapped square footage represents substantial upside potential, both for lifestyle enhancement and property value growth.

4.28 Acres in Town – A Rare Offering

Large acreage within town limits is increasingly rare. This estate’s 4.28 acres provide space, privacy, and opportunity seldom found in historic town properties.

The grounds allow room for:

Gardens and outdoor entertaining areas
Event hosting for weddings or gatherings
Expansion or accessory structures
Recreational enjoyment and serene views

The combination of Victorian grandeur and expansive land creates a setting that feels estate-like, yet remains conveniently located.

An Ideal Bed & Breakfast Opportunity

Given its layout, size, and proximity to prestigious schools, this property is exceptionally well-positioned for a Bed & Breakfast or boutique inn concept.

The separate living spaces on the first floor allow an owner or manager to reside comfortably on-site while offering private accommodations for guests. The bedroom count supports multiple suites, while common areas provide elegant gathering spaces for dining and relaxation.

With modest updates and thoughtful restoration, this residence could become one of Chatham’s most charming hospitality destinations.

Historic Character Ready for Revival

This Victorian home offers strong architectural bones and a commanding presence. With some updates and restoration, it has the potential to become a true showplace—an estate that honors its 1850 origins while embracing modern refinement.

The generous room sizes, high ceilings, and classic layout provide an exceptional canvas for customization. Buyers seeking a property with both historic integrity and business potential will recognize the rare opportunity this home presents.