185 Washington Street

Known as the Converse House, this c. 1870 High Victorian Gothic landmark was built for Colonel Charles A. Converse, a Norwich businessman and philanthropist. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and part of the Chelsea Parade Historic District, the home is steps from Washington Park and offers a rare blend of architectural pedigree and modern comfort. A distinctive seven-sided front porch welcomes you inside, where historic details include a built-in preacher's bench, pocket doors, a gracious parlor, library, two living rooms, fireplaces, a walnut-paneled dining room, butler's pantry, cedar closets, and a whimsical widow's peak. The thoughtfully updated home offers five bedrooms and has been enhanced for today's living with a new slate and copper roof, new electrical, new sewer line, new gas furnace, and an on-demand hot water heater. The front porch features new Indonesian Batu wood flooring, complemented by a new slate patio. Set on beautifully landscaped grounds with mature trees, flowering gardens, a fountain, carriage barn, and one-car garage, this is a truly move-in-ready opportunity to become the next steward of one of Norwich's most memorable homes.