Queen Anne Victorian Restored in Plainfield’s Van Wyck Brooks Historic District
Plainfield, New Jersey, United States
Nestled in Plainfield, New Jersey’s Van Wyck Brooks Historic District, this stunning three-story Queen Anne Victorian mansion has been meticulously restored, bringing new life to a piece of local history. Originally built in 1893 for attorney Craig A. Marsh, the 7,500-square-foot estate stands proudly on West Eighth Street, a stretch once celebrated as Millionaire’s Row. Designed by architect Charles H. Smith, the home showcases the grandeur and elegance of late 19th-century architecture.
Over the decades, the mansion changed hands several times and, at one point, was divided into four separate apartments. Unfortunately, it fell into a state of disrepair: rich woodwork was painted over in green, and a once-grand verandah was enclosed, masking the home’s original beauty.
The mansion’s revival began when John S. and his partner, Craig B., discovered the property. Captivated by its history and potential, they purchased it and embarked on a comprehensive restoration. Over the next five years, they invested not only a significant financial sum—more than the original purchase price—but also immense time and care to return the mansion to its former glory.
One of the home’s most celebrated features is its grand staircase, crowned by a magnificent stained glass dome. The six-foot-tall stained glass windows, set in the largest turret at the staircase landing, were painstakingly restored piece by piece, with all the lead replaced. Each window required approximately four months to complete, a testament to the dedication poured into the restoration.
During the renovation, the owners also modernized the mansion with all-new systems, including electrical wiring, plumbing, and central air conditioning. Yet, they preserved the home’s historic charm, carefully refurbishing period details and fixtures such as the four fireplaces and original parquet floors.
Today, the 7,500-square-foot mansion boasts seven bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room, and two kitchens, blending modern functionality with historic elegance. Since completing the restoration, John and Craig have generously opened the interiors for events benefiting the Friends of Westfield Symphony Orchestra, allowing the public to experience its grandeur firsthand.
Recognized as one of the most impressive and well-preserved historic mansions in Plainfield, the home is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Homes. Its beauty continues to captivate visitors and enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of late 19th-century New Jersey.
