Imagine stepping back in time to an era of detailed craftsmanship and grand scale. This isn’t just a house; it’s a magnificent piece of Fond Du Lac’s story, lovingly preserved and ready for its next chapter. It’s a truly rare chance to own the former St. Paul’s Cathedral Rectory, a stately home built around 1880. If you adore the beauty and history of old houses, this one will steal your heart.
Key Features and Details
- Address: 39 S Marr St, Fond du Lac, WI 54935
- Built: Circa 1880
- Size: 4,951 square feet
- Lot Size: 0.56 acres
- Bedrooms: 6
- Bathrooms: 5.5 (six total)
- Exterior: Stunning Limestone
- Price: $225,000
Step Inside the Past
The first thing you’ll notice about this Queen Anne beauty is its imposing limestone exterior. It speaks of strength and timeless style—a true landmark in the neighborhood. But the real magic begins when you cross the threshold. You are immediately greeted by a dramatic oak staircase. It’s the kind of staircase you only see in classic movies, with beautiful woodwork that has stood strong for almost 150 years. This staircase is definitely one of the best features of the house and sets the tone for the quality of the rest of the home.
The sheer size of the house is incredible, with nearly 5,000 square feet to explore! Every room seems to offer another delightful detail. Throughout the main floor, you’ll find extensive wood paneling and tall, high ceilings that make the rooms feel open and airy. Look closely at the walls and ceilings, and you’ll see beautiful period millwork, including detailed crown moulding and wide baseboards—a testament to the skill of the original builders.
Architectural Treasures
The main rooms hold several architectural gifts that will charm any lover of old homes. Imagine hosting dinner parties in the formal dining room, or simply enjoying the history around you. The living spaces feature gorgeous details like French doors that open up the rooms and let in the light. In some areas, you’ll find sections of lovely wood floors already exposed, but a little secret for the new owner is that all the original wood floors are likely still hidden and protected underneath the current carpeting, waiting to be brought back to life!
One of the highlights is the stunning coffered ceiling in a main room. This detailed, sunken panel work instantly adds a touch of grand sophistication and is a true sign of a high-quality, custom-built home. You will also find several beautiful fireplaces throughout the house, perfect for cozying up on a Wisconsin winter evening. These fireplaces are not just for heat; they are stunning focal points that anchor each room with their timeless design.
Rooms with a Story
With six bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms, there is space for everyone and everything. The layout is perfect for a large family or for someone who wants to turn a room into a dedicated hobby space. The home features a sun-filled library—imagine curling up with a book surrounded by light and history. There is also a separate office, ideal for working from home.
The kitchen has its own charm, including a butler’s pantry—a wonderful feature for extra storage and preparation space when entertaining guests. And here’s where the history gets even more unique: the house still has a private chapel! This lovely reminder of the building’s time as a rectory is truly special and offers so many possibilities for use, perhaps as a quiet meditation room or a unique art studio.
A Property with Potential
Situated on over half an acre (0.56 acres), the large lot offers plenty of outdoor space, including a two-car garage. More than just a huge single-family home, this property is zoned by the city for single family, duplex, or even triplex use. This opens up many options for the new owner, whether you want a grand family home or an investment property. This incredible amount of architectural heritage and extraordinary potential is available for an amazing price of just $225,000. If you have a passion for history and are ready to restore a masterpiece, this house is calling your name.
