Historic Hawk Gate Farm in Vermont Lists for $6.1M with Sugar House and 1790 Home

A 352-acre Vermont farm, featuring a historic 1790 residence and a fully operational maple syrup sugar house, is on the market for $6.1 million. Known as Hawk Gate Farm in Pomfret, the property represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of New England history with significant agricultural and recreational potential. The listing is currently under a contingent offer, indicating strong buyer interest.

What is the history behind Hawk Gate Farm's main residence? The centerpiece of the property is the Isaac Newton House, a Federal-style brick home built in 1790. The residence retains remarkable historical integrity, featuring original details that are highly sought after by preservationists. These include original window and door moldings, wide-plank wood flooring, hand-forged hardware, and a fireplace with a beehive oven. Isaac Newton, one of the area's first settlers, built the home for his wife and their 10 children, establishing the farm's deep roots in the region.

What other significant structures are included with the property? Beyond the main house, the farm comprises a collection of historic outbuildings that enhance its value and functionality.

• 1900 Dairy Barn: This is described as a "rare high-drive dairy barn," a structure that showcases Vermont's early 20th-century dairy legacy. The previous owner, Curtis Blake (co-founder of Friendly's Ice Cream), added a wing for Jersey cows.
• Carriage House: This building includes a two-bedroom apartment, ideal for a caretaker, situated above a 5-acre pond.
• Sugar House: This is a functional facility where the current owners produce maple syrup under the trademarked brand "Syrupology," demonstrating an existing income-generating opportunity.

What recreational and land features does the farm offer? The land itself is a major asset, characterized by rolling hills, meadows, and diverse ecosystems. The property boasts eight miles of carriage roads, including the historic "Kings Highway," a stone-lined pathway believed to date to the 18th century. Surrounded by towering maples, birch groves, and stone walls, the farm borders the Appalachian Trail to the north. Based on our experience assessment, the land is suited for equestrian use, agriculture, or simply as a private recreational retreat with spectacular, uninterrupted views.

What is the potential for the next owner of this Vermont farm? According to the listing agent, the value of Hawk Gate Farm is intrinsically linked to its land. While it could be developed as a legacy compound, it is more likely to serve as a secondary retreat for a buyer who appreciates conservation and history. The current contingent status means a buyer has made an offer accepted by the seller, but the sale is subject to specific conditions being met.

For a prospective buyer, the key takeaways are the property's historical authenticity, its diverse income potential from maple syrup production, and the vast recreational landscape. The combination of preserved structures and protected natural beauty makes it a unique offering in the Vermont real estate market.