52 Fair Street

Built in 1770, this gracious house has been a prominent presence on Fair Street since it was first built and occupied by Noah Hodgkin. The house was grand when it was built, and remains so 255 years later. Structural evidence indicates that the builders were fine craftsmen, and that the two ells were added in 1860 (north ell) and 1875 (south ell). Recent restoration projects completed by the late owner include bathrooms and kitchen remodeled using local antique wood, some of which came from the floor of a neighboring barn. With four bedrooms and three baths, the house can easily accommodate family and guests. The flow of the entrance, parlor, keeping room and library is anchored by three magnificent fireplaces -- emphasizing the presence of the colossal central chimney stack. The house is set in almost a half acre of carefully designed and maintained gardens. A roomy terrace and graceful pergola adjacent to the kitchen ell make a perfect setting for surveying the gardens, and for outdoor dining. 52 Fair Street is a rare offering on one of downtown Guilford's most historic blocks, and is in the Guilford Town Center Historic District.