2685 Princeton Pike

Welcome to The Benjamin Johnston House! This stunning Victorian-era Second Empire home is one of only two in Lawrence, making it a rare and unique piece of local heritage. Once part of the legendary Rising Sun Tavern (built in 1821), the midsection of this home was carefully moved from its original location and reimagined in 1880, before the striking 3-story front portion was added in 1881 and the rear carriage house was transformed into additional living space in the late '80s. Step through the double doors into the formal entry and prepare to be wowed by the sweeping staircase and original architectural details. A continuous, curved banister winds gracefully from the foyer’s octagonal newel post alongside stained balusters. The front portion of the home is a study in grandeur, featuring a spacious formal living room, and a banquet-sized dining room, both crowned with 10-foot ceilings, intricate 9-inch base moldings, and decorative fireplaces with new luxury vinyl flooring. The heart of the home lies in its original midsection housing a chef’s kitchen that blends vintage charm with modern function. Original pumpkin pine floors, wood cabinetry, and butcher block countertops with plenty of bar seating combine with new stainless steel appliances to create a warm, inviting space. An intimate parlor compliments the vast entertaining space as well. Sliding doors open to a courtyard perfect for al fresco dining or simply enjoying the outdoors in style. Beyond a smaller eat-in area and hall with laundry, the rear section of the house could easily serve as another in-law suite or rental. It boasts an expansive family room with exposed beams, wide-plank hardwood floors and a wealth of custom-built-ins and bookcases as well as three guest bedrooms, a full bath, and access to a storage attic to complete the main level. On the second floor, enjoy the elegance of the primary bedroom, which boasts two double-door closets and en-suite bath.Adjacent is a spacious study, currently being used as an 8th bedroom with another decorative fireplace framed by its original slate hearth, inscribed with the 1881 build date. This level also features a private entry to the apartment (currently closed off for the current tenant’s privacy) which is a haven with its own living room, spacious eat-in kitchen, sunny bedroom, and full bath. This suite offers a private staircase and deck as well as balcony overlooking the courtyard. The third floor continues to impress, offering two additional guest bedrooms, a private study with a wet bar and custom cabinetry, and a vintage-tiled bath complete with a double vanity and separate cosmetic vanity. The home’s practicality is just as impressive. New luxury vinyl flooring has been installed on all three levels of the front portion of the home. The stairs leading to all three floors have also been reimagined, with carpets removed and the original wood refinished. Chandeliers throughout the downstairs living spaces have been updated to add a touch of elegance to the formal dining, living, and kitchen areas. Other updates to the systems of the home include a new water heater ( 2025), upgraded AC units and mini-split air conditioning for the apartment. 3-zone heating provides optimal comfort throughout as well. Outside, the property stuns with its front, side and back porches all overlooking well-landscaped grounds while a Bilco door provides easy access to the full storage basement beneath the front and midsections of the house. A long driveway with plenty of parking leads to a two-story, two-car garage featuring a workshop with a half bath and studio/gym area. Behind an exterior door, a staircase leads to a second-story greenhouse complete with a gas heater, fans, and hay hoist. Additionally, a separate shed provides extra storage space for all your needs. There is simply no other estate quite like The Benjamin Johnston House: a rare find; a historic gem; your home sweet home!