CHARLOTTE VALLEY FARMS, A TREASURED PIECE OF RURAL
HISTORY WITH A MODERN, LUXURIOUS TWIST, NOW FOR SALE
Nestled amid the beauty of the Catskill Mountains
on 464 acres of USDA Organically-Certified lands awaits a one-of-a-kind
opportunity known as Charlotte Valley Farms. Distinguished with
a circa 1795 Federal Farmhouse listed on the NYS and National
Historic Register, this fully-functional organic farm and equestrian
facility affords a unique and upscale country lifestyle for the
discerning inhabitant with an appreciation of history, luxury
and nature.
A meticulously-designed contemporary addition, twice
as large as the original white frame farmhouse that painted a
perfect picture of American rural vernacular architecture, was
brought to life in 1992 by nationally-acclaimed architect Peter
Gluck. Complete with an art gallery, lap pool and sunken garden,
the spectacular upgraded property was featured in Architectural
Digest magazine, described as a prime example of "contextual
modernism" which linked the new forms to the shapes and materials
of the charming barns and silos on the site.
Other prominent names were involved in the making
of the distinctive Charlotte Valley Farms, with barns by John
Blackburn, the nation's premier designer and builder of equestrian
structures, and landscape architecture designed by Michael Van
Valkenberg, Harvard School of Landscape Design, known for environmentally
sustainable and experientially-rich settings. Exterior and interior
colors, surfaces and patterns were fashioned by the renowned Donald
Kaufman Color, New York.
A Place Time Thankfully Forgot. There is a rare
beauty and solitude that exists in Charlotte Valley, which has
been extremely well preserved and undisturbed by time. Although
less than 5 miles from Interstate I88, the valley has largely
been isolated from modern influences and remains anchored by working
farms, making it an unusually original post-Colonial example of
early Americana that's been captured in time. The home dating
to 1795 was built by the prominent Becker family whose roots trace
back to the 1740s. The valley in which it sits is comprised of
an assemblage of authentic architectural styles from the date
of the house through the 1860s. See www.SouthWorcesterNY.org for
more details.
A 19th-century ice pond, now called Lake Lucille
(after Grandma Freedman), provides winter ice skating and well
as summer fishing and canoeing. The pond provided cut ice to the
Borden Creamery located diagonally from the farmstead. Only foundations
remain from this once active village enterprise. The landscaped
lake itself is a serene memory to a bygone age and wonderful lady.
Blissful, Harmonious Interiors. The result of the
old and new composition, according to Architectural Digest, now
serves as "a family homestead and retirement retreat, as
well as a center for the display of local artists' work. The two
functions are spatially and symbolically separated, but not remote
from one another."
The original farmhouse currently hosts a lovely
reading library with views of the valley, the family room, and
a major fully-equipped yoga studio with a bathroom and separate
entrance on the first floor. The second level offers four tastefully-decorated
bedrooms (one with a cathedral ceiling) with restored wood plank
floors, unique “stove pipe” closets and a half bath.
The spectacular 5873-square-foot addition is a modern
masterpiece. Adding to the four bedrooms in the original farmhouse,
there is a modern two-bedroom master suite, bringing the house
total to six bedrooms and five baths, Throughout there is an infusion
of natural light and a beautiful blend of wood, steel and stone
finishes. Entire walls of stone are showcased in the stone fireplace
in the great room, the end wall in the pool room, and on the exterior
of the buildings. Other highlights include: a great room with
a wall of glass facing the sunset and a sleek open chef's kitchen
that are the home's centerpiece; a tranquil master suite with
arched ceilings, a wood stove, large walk-in closet, indulgent
master bath and sweeping mountainside views. plus an exhibition-sized
art gallery with high-tech lighting options and skylights.
The addition is powered by central air conditioning,
heating, humidifying and electronic air purification systems.
Two generators assure continuous power in any weather.
Organic Farming, Healthy Living. Most of the 464
acres are sheltered by New York State and Federal USDA agricultural
designation, while the surrounding properties are also part of
the National Historic District. This designation provides substantial
New York State tax benefits for repair or improvement of the property,
while affording a dedicated holistic organic lifestyle. Features
of the home and barns are emphasized and enhanced by the farm’s
organic uses. Crops are grown and harvested throughout the growing
season and supplied to one of the largest organic milk producers
in New York State, which is the largest producer of milk for yogurt
and the second largest producer of dairy products in the United
States. The owner/farmer relationship spans over 20 years, and
the land has been consistently improved by this partnership.
The property is fenced to accommodate up to 200
beef cows for rotational grazing in accordance with highest environmental
standards. Living within a cultivated and curated environment
assures optimal healthfulness and peace of mind. National certifications
confirm that the owners live free of the herbicides, pesticides
and fertilizers which threaten modern life. The farm also offers
open fields, miles of wooded riding trails, a private spring-fed
pond for fishing, swimming and canoeing, 1.5 miles of trout stream,
a mountain spring for irrigation and two drilled wells.
Heavenly Pool Oasis. The pool area affords a dreamy
setting for lap swimming and relaxation. The spectacular 75' double
lap pool with a retractable cover creates a transitional space
between the main living areas and the sunken exterior garden.
In summer, a steel and glass wall opens for a continuous flow
with the outdoors.
The pool room features a sitting/entertainment area
with a fully-integrated electronic entertainment system and wet
bar where the family can gather after exercise or for entertainment.
The 100-foot space is enhanced by Indian cut slate flooring, track
lighting and a 15’ high arched reflective ceiling. Polished
Beech wood tree columns were cut from the farm's 150-acre woodlot
(which is managed according to its long-term forest management
program). They were crafted by French craftsmen. The stone wall
at the end of the pool was designed for rock climbing, with a
belaying hook atop the upper right. A steam room with marble benches,
workout room, private bath, 2 showers and radiant heat flooring
complete the daily luxuriousness for family and friends.
Alluring Use of Original Barns. Situated in a picturesque
valley in upstate New York, the 11-stall barn complex grandly
rises in the landscape of the 464-acre farm. Arranged around the
ruins of abandoned grain silos, the buildings – which are
clad in galvanized corrugated metal – take advantage of
prevailing summer breezes and invite natural light via translucent
sections, while sheltering the interior spaces from harsh winter
conditions.
Good environmentally-responsible site design is
critical to the success of any horse farm, and was a primary goal
in John Blackburn's equine design philosophy. The program for
the 464-acre farm was based on the owners’ desire to create
a Paso Fino breeding/training operation. Barns have also been
impeccably upgraded with various comforts, such as an office,
restrooms, tack room, laundry room, wash and groom stall, skylights
and much more.
The barn remains one of Blackburn and Associates
most unique barn designs and is a shining example of their design
creativity, respect for the existing and historic context, attention
to the functionality of the farm operation and aesthetic needs
of the owner.
A Rich History. Charlotte Valley Farms in the Charlotte
Valley of Otsego County, NY is a pristine example of early America.
One of the largest certified organic properties in New York State,
it uses the latest technologies to preserve an unspoiled post-colonial
American gem forgotten by time and developers. This American treasure
with pure air and waters, actively-farmed fields and glorious
architecture can be maintained and enjoyed with minimum effort
and staff.
Much of the first 150 years of the farm’s
known history revolves around the Becker family, descendants of
Palatine Germans who may have arrived in the Charlotte Valley
prior to the American Revolution, and perhaps as early as 1740.
The original house was built in 1795 by Jacob Becker, and later
enhanced by the family in 1840. As the Becker family influence
grew and came to dominate local politics and industry, their mills
and farming operations expanded into national prominence in banking,
investments and law. In the 1920s, Sherburne Becker returned to
restore many of the original Becker holdings and was instrumental
in bringing the post-colonial village back to its one-time splendor.
The family-friendly environment was discovered by the current
owners in the early 1970s. With agricultural and aesthetic expertise,
they nurtured and enhanced their 464-acre tract into the unique
experience it offers today, investing knowledge, love, time and
money to maintain this important piece of Americana for over 40
years. Visit www.CatskillEstateForSale.com for additional information,
extensive photography, and contact information to view this magnificent
property.
Circa 1795 Federal Farmhouse listed on the NYS and National Historic
Register is known as Charlotte Valley Farms, a certified organic
farm. The contemporary addition was added in 1992 by nationally
acclaimed architect Peter Gluck and then featured in Architectural
Digest.
The sprawling 5873 sq ft home includes 6 bedrooms,
and 5 baths with a mix of wood, steel and stone. Entire walls
of stone include the stone fireplace in the great room, end wall
in the pool room, as well as on the exterior of the buildings.
Vaulted ceiling with exposed beams in the great room, a wall of
glass and a state of the art kitchen are the center piece of the
home that flows with natural light. The house is fully air conditioned
with humidifiers and electronic air purifiers.
The master bedroom suite has arched ceilings, wood
stove a large walk-in closet and mountainside views. The master
bath features a Japanese soaking tub, glass enclosed ceramic shower
and marble sink. There is also an exhibition sized art gallery
with high tech lighting options and sky lights for plenty of natural
light.
The original farmhouse currently hosts a lovely
reading library with views of the valley, the family room and
a major fully equipped yoga studio on the first floor. The second
floor has four spacious bedrooms with restored wood plank floors
and a half bath.
*Wood stoves are not included in the sale of the home.*
POOL:
The pool room has a sitting room/entertainment
area with a fully integrated electronic entertainment system and
wet bar, Indian cut slate floor, track lighting, 15’ high
arched reflective ceiling, polished Beech wood tree columns cut
from premise and designed and crafted by Raymond Verdaguer and
a spectacular 75’ lap pool with a retractable cover. The
pool room is ceramic tile, including a steam room with marble
benches, workout room, private bath, 2 showers, and radiant heat.
* Pool fountain/statue is not included in the sale*
ARCHITECTURE:
The landscape Architecture was designed by Michael
VanValkenberg, Harvard School of Landscape Design.
Barns designed by John Blackburn, nation’s
premier designer of equestrian structures.
Interior and Exterior colors and patterns designed
by Donald Kaufman.
BARNS:
One story metal barn includes heated office space
with stall shower bathroom, laundry room, (24x30) garage area
and 11 horse stalls with over head doors for an overall size of
180x24. There are 5 fenced paddocks and an indoor circular riding
arena. The lighted riding arena has corrugated metal siding and
a conical roof.
Also includes a 30x30 pole barn for machine storage,
and a 24x28 post and beam garage with electric.
FARM FEATURES:464
Acres - Certified Organic Working Farm
discussion
of farm logistics by Bill Eklund.
discussion
of farm logistics by Bill Eklund.
Hardwood timber – 123 acres
Prime river bottom flat land – 120 Certified
Organic Acres
Pasture – 203 Certified Organic Acres
Supports 100-200 milk cows – owner using
robotic technology
Open field and miles of wooded riding trails
Private spring fed pond for fishing, swimming and
canoeing
Lands protected by agricultural designation for
tax purposes
Federal Department of Agriculture payments for
next 15 yrs.
Major mountain spring as well as 2 drilled wells
Mile long frontage on 2 streams, one the Charlotte
Creek known for trout fishing
Garage Type Detached (24x28) Foundation Poured
Concrete (new), Stone (original house)
Basement Finished, Full Fireplaces #1 (with bread
oven)
Fireplace Type Woodburning (stone with 5' firebox)
Insulation Yes
Interior Features Kitchen Isle, Open Beam Ceiling,
Other (75), Radon Mitigation Sys, Satellite Dish, Security System,
Skylight(s), Track Lighting, Walk-In-Closet, Water Filtration
Sys Exterior Features Barn (180x24,10 over head doors,), Other
(riding arena, auto irrigation gardens), Patio (stone in rear
gardens), Pond (spring fed), Porch (2 full sides of farmhouse),
Storage/Out-Building (30x30), Stream (trout stream)
Sewer Septic System (1500 gal w/fields) Water Well
(new pump and water line)
Hot Water Propane (off boiler) Heat/Cool Type Baseboard
Heat (upstairs Farmhouse), Central AC, Electric Heat (upstairs
Farmhouse), Forced Air Heat, Hot Water Heat, Propane Heating,
Radiant Heat
Gas Propane Town/CountyTax $9831.36
Becker original farm stead. Circa 1915. The main portion of this
farm stead dates to 1795.
1795 Federal Farmhouse is listed on the NYS and National Historic
Register.
Charlotte Valley Farms, nestled in the Charlotte
Valley of Otsego County, New York, is one of the most unique and
pristine examples of early America in existence today. One of
the largest certified organic properties in New York State, it
uses the latest technologies to preserve an unspoiled example
of post-colonial America forgotten by time and developers. It
is an American treasure: pure waters and air, actively farmed
fields and glorious architecture. The property can be maintained
and used with minimum effort and staff.
Much of the first 150 years of the farm’s
known history revolves around the Becker family. The Beckers were
descendants of Palatine Germans who may have arrived in the Charlotte
Valley (known by the indigenous as Adaquitancie) prior to the
American Revolution and perhaps as early as 1740. The region at
the time of the Revolution was occupied by both loyalists and
patriots. During the hostilities most inhabitants fled and the
small number of dwellings that did exist were burned. The famous
Timothy Murphy, known as a “Indian Fighter” is buried
on the banks of the Charlotte Creek nearby and his house remains
in the village.
Upon cessation of hostilities the Beckers returned after having
served on the side of the colonists and began to develop deep
roots that would last over 150 years.
The original house dates to 1795 and was built by Jacob Becker.
It was later enhanced by the family in 1840 to take more or less
the appearance it has today less the Victorian era porch and the
modern extension added by the current owners in 1992-94 designed
by the famed architect Peter Gluck. The entire property is listed
on the New York State and National Historic Register.
The Becker family influence grew and came to dominate local politics
and industry. Their mills and farming operations expanded into
national prominence in banking, investments and law. Abraham Becker
operated a law school in South Worcester and built a 60 room mansion
(no longer standing.) It is said that financiers JP Morgan and
Jay Gould studied law in the Village.
The Becker influence continued into the Twentieth Century. In
the 1920s Sherburne Becker returned to the area and restored many
of the original Becker holdings. He was instrumental in bringing
the post-colonial village back to its one time splendor and thus
preserved its nineteenth century character until today.
South Worcester is a largely intact example of early
America. It contains two beautifully restored churches, the original
South Worcester National Bank Building (one of the first chartered
banks in New York State) and a four season Bed & Breakfast.
Although less than 5 miles from Interstate I88, the Valley has
largely been isolated from modern influences and remains anchored
by working farms (both dairy and organic vegetable.) Daily farm
life lends a sense of practicality to the peace and tranquility
so sought after today..
As the Becker family’s influence was waning, the family
friendly environment was discovered by the current owners in the
early 1970s. With agricultural and aesthetic expertise they nurtured
and enhanced their 464 acre tract into the unique experience it
offers today.. They have invested knowledge, love, time and money
to maintain this important piece of Americana.
After over 40 years of devotion by the owners, this homestead,
the village and the valley are anticipating their next steward.
DIRECTIONS
Directions to 525 County Highway 40, Charlotteville, New York
12036. .
Using a GPS: Key in the address of 525 Co. Hwy.
40, Worcester, NY 12197. Using "Charlotteville" will
not work.
By Plane:
Albany is the most convenient airport. It is serviced by most
major airlines. "Leather Stocking Limousine," at 607-547-6189,
can arrange shuttle or private transportation services.
Driving:
From Cooperstown (about 45 minutes)
1: From Baseball Museum out go EAST on MAIN ST / 0.2 miles
2: Turn RIGHT onto ESTLI AVE. / 0.6 miles
3: ESTLI AVE becomes CR-33. / 0.2 miles
4: Turn SLIGHT LEFT onto CR-52. / 2.9 miles
5: Turn LEFT onto NY-166. / 1.7 miles
6: Turn RIGHT onto CR-35. / 0.7 miles
7: Stay STRAIGHT to go onto WHITEMAN RD. / 0.7 miles
8: WHITEMAN RD becomes MIDDLEFIELD RD. / 3.4 miles
9: Turn LEFT onto CR-34. / 0.1 miles
10: Turn RIGHT onto CR-36. / 4.9 miles
11: Turn RIGHT onto CR-39. / 0.6 miles
12: Turn RIGHT onto N CHURCH ST. / 0.2 miles
13: Turn LEFT onto NY-7/MAIN ST. / <0.1 miles
14: Turn RIGHT onto CR-39. / 6.0 miles
15: Turn RIGHT onto CR-40. / <0.1 miles
16: End at 525 County Highway 40, Charlotteville, NY
Look for two distinct white silos as our landmark.
From the West
Take I-88 to second Oneonta exit, route 23 going east, follow
directions to the farm as given from Oneonta as below.
From Albany (about 1 hour)
Take I-90 to exit 25A, I-88 to exit 19. Upon exiting I-88 follow
the exit road, generally bearing right, following the signs to
Worcester. This exit road takes you to Route 7. at the intersection
you will see a Stewarts Shop on the left. Turn left onto Route
7 West. Go 0.9 miles on Route 7 West into the little town of Worcester.
You will see the Worcester Market on your the right and a small
brick bank building with the sign "Charter One Bank"
outside. Across the street on the left you will see several signs
including
a sign for the Worcester Town Court and a sign for the Charlotte
valley Inn. Turn left at this point onto South Hill Road. (If
you go past the Worcester Post Office, on your right , you have
gone too far.) Note: You can safely
follow all signs to Charlotte Valley Inn since it is located with
the borders of Charlotte Valley Farms.
Once you go South on South Hill Road you will travel
a distance of 5.9 miles. Soon after leaving Route 7 West, you
will cross a railroad track and then go under I-88. Keep going
up the winding, hilly road. You will pass Smith Road on the left.
Do not take it!
At the 2.0 mile point on you odometer you reach
a "Y" in the road. The road on the right is marked South
America Road. Do not take it! Instead, take a sharp left followed
by an almost immediate right which is a continuation of
South Hill Road. You will continue on South Hill Road for the
remaining 3.9 miles untill it ends up at a "T" with
Route 40. Go right on Route 40 and you will immediately arrive
at Charlotte Valley Farms.
From Oneonta (about 20 minutes)
Take route 23 south 10 minutes to "Butts Corner" sign,
followed immediately by a sign pointing to Fergusonville and Schenevus.
Take left. (This is Delaware County route 9 which changes to Otsego
County route 40 at the county line.) Anyway, after your turn you'll
follow this road for 5.5 miles
to "South Worcester." The farm is at the end of the
hamlet. Look for two distinct white silos as our landmark.
From NYC and New Jersey areas
(about 3 hours from Tappan Zee Bridge)
From New York State Thruway... Leave NY Thruway at Exit 19, Kingston.
Go 28 miles west toward Pine Hill on route 28 to Shandaken. ("Bread
Alone" is 20 miles from the thruway. Great Walnut Bread,
currant buns, etc.) Turn right
on route 42 for 11.3 miles to Lexington. Cross over bridge at
Lexington and turn left on Green Country Route 13A for .3 miles
until it intersects with route 23A. Turn left onto route 23A west
for about 5.2 miles until 23A joins with route 23. (At this point
there is a sign for Windham to the right.) Go straight (west)
on route 23 for 14 miles to Stamford. Continue for 11.7 miles
to "Butts Corners" sign. This will be immediately followed
by a sign which points right to Fergusonville and Schenevus. Turn
right. (This is
Delaware County route 9 which changes to Otsego County route 40
at the county line.) Anyway, after your turn you'll follow this
road for 5.5 miles to "South Worcester." The farm is
at the end of the hamlet. Look for two distinct white silos as
our landmark.
Broker:
Franklin Ruttan 1406 North State Street Syracuse, NY 13208
(O) 315.876.2262 E-Mail: info@FranklinRuttan.com
This property marketing
is in cooperation with Christy
Dahms, Broker/Owner Charlotteville Realty
638 Charlotte Valley Rd Charlotteville, NY 12036 607.397.9027 Office 607.397.9025
Fax 607.434.5993 Cell
Broker
fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal
Opportunity Act.