Circa 1899: Timeless Character & Modern Comfort at 523 S George Street, Charles Town, WV

Sherry Santmyer
1 day ago
3 min read

Circa 1899 and beautifully preserved, 523 S George Street stands as a distinguished

residence in the South Charles Town Historic District—where architectural heritage, walkable lifestyle, and thoughtful updates come together. Just moments from downtown events, dining, and local hospitality, this home offers the rare opportunity to enjoy historic character without sacrificing everyday comfort.

From the moment you arrive, the home’s well-maintained stucco exterior, classic stone foundation, and standing-seam metal roof set the tone. The curb appeal is both graceful and enduring—true to its era yet carefully maintained for modern living.

A Welcoming First Impression

A full-width covered front porch with a columned knee wall invites you to slow down and enjoy the neighborhood’s charm. It’s the kind of porch that naturally becomes part of daily life—perfect for morning coffee or evening conversation.

Step through the impressive entry door, framed by multi-paned sidelights, into a spacious foyer that immediately showcases the home’s craftsmanship. A gas fireplace with a traditional wood mantel adds warmth and presence, while the gracious staircase with carved newel post and banister creates a striking architectural focal point.

Throughout the main and second levels, original details remain beautifully intact—hardwood floors, crown molding, oversized baseboards, historic hardware, and soaring ceiling heights of 10 feet on the main level and 9 feet upstairs.

Elegant Living & Entertaining Spaces

The main level offers a series of well-proportioned rooms designed for both comfortable daily living and memorable entertaining.

Large folding double doors open to the living room, where a fireplace with a wood pellet stove anchors the space. A bright bay window flanked by matching windows brings in abundant natural light and enhances the room’s scale and symmetry.

The formal dining room features a third fireplace with a wood-and-tile mantel and connects gracefully to both the foyer and breakfast room—creating a natural and elegant flow for gatherings.

The kitchen is light-filled and full of personality, with vintage cabinetry and original hardware, wood countertops, a double sink, recessed lighting, and built-in glass-front storage. New appliances—including the stove and refrigerator installed in 2025—blend modern function with historic style. Just beyond, a screened porch offers easy access to the backyard and extends the living space outdoors. A guest bath and laundry room complete the main level.

Comfortable & Character-Rich Bedrooms

Upstairs, the second level continues the theme of generous scale, natural light, and preserved detail.

The primary suite includes a wood-burning fireplace and a private bath featuring a walk-in shower, clawfoot soaking tub, double vanity, and abundant cabinetry—combining vintage charm with modern convenience.

A second bedroom of similar size can connect to the primary suite through double doors or remain privately accessed from the hall. A third bedroom, guest bath, and linen closet round out this level with flexibility and function.

A Standout Third Level

The finished third floor is one of the home’s most distinctive features. Bright and versatile, it offers hardwood floors, wood wainscoting, a high beamed ceiling, and a walk-in closet. Whether used as a fourth bedroom, office, studio, or lounge, this level provides exceptional bonus space rarely found in homes of this era.

Practical Features & Meaningful Updates

While rich in history, the home has benefited from key improvements:

Front porch roof and gutters replaced in 2025
The main metal roof was painted approximately five years ago
The attic HVAC system is approximately five years old
Water heater is approximately three years old
Refrigerator and stove installed in 2025
Classic wood shutters and standing-seam metal roofing on the main and porch areas

An unfinished basement provides utility space, a sink, exterior access, and room for storage or workshop use. Rear alley access allows for off-street parking, and the level fenced yard is ideal for gardening and outdoor enjoyment.

Historic Setting, Everyday Convenience

Located near the heart of Charles Town, residents enjoy easy access to shops, restaurants, seasonal farmers markets, arts and theater venues, and community events. Nearby outdoor recreation in Harpers Ferry adds even more lifestyle appeal, along with convenient commuter routes to Virginia and Maryland and access to the MARC Train.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing building in the Charles Town Residential Historic District, 523 S George Street represents a rare blend of preserved architectural beauty and modern livability—an address where history is not just remembered, but truly lived.

For more information or to schedule a private showing: