Historic Farm Estate Heads to Auction – A Rare Rural Opportunity in Pennsylvania
Set against the peaceful countryside of Watsontown, this remarkable 76.6-acre farm estate at 155 Shady Hill Road presents a unique chance to own a piece of agricultural history blended with timeless residential charm.
Scheduled for onsite auction on March 28, 2026, this property is not just a home—it’s a fully equipped farming operation with deep roots and exceptional potential.
The listed price of $300,000 serves only as a suggested opening bid, offering prospective buyers an exciting opportunity to compete for a truly special property. With a required $60,000 down payment on the day of auction and settlement scheduled by May 28, 2026, serious buyers will want to prepare in advance for this rare offering.
A Grand Historic Residence
At the heart of the property stands a stately three-story Federal-style home, distinguished by its striking mansard roofline and classic architectural appeal. This spacious residence features six bedrooms and three bathrooms, making it ideal for large families, multi-generational living, or even conversion into a bed-and-breakfast.
Inside, the home showcases five fireplaces, adding warmth and historic character throughout. Hardwood floors in select areas further enhance its timeless elegance, while the overall condition of the home reflects careful maintenance over the years. With a bit of modernization, this residence could be transformed into a truly stunning country estate.
Fully Equipped Agricultural Infrastructure
This property isn’t just about charm—it’s built for productivity. Previously used for crop production and beef operations, the farm is equipped with extensive infrastructure to support a variety of agricultural ventures.
Key features include:
A large bank barn with an attached 74’ x 136’ loafing shed and feed bunk
A 40’ x 100’ pole barn
A massive 60’ x 90’ shop/garage for equipment storage or mechanical work
A 36’ x 90’ shed for additional storage
Two 16’ x 74’ poured silos
Grain storage including two 5,000-bushel bins and one 12,000-bushel bin
These facilities make the property well-suited for livestock, grain farming, or diversified agricultural use. Whether you’re an experienced farmer or an investor looking to lease farmland, the infrastructure is already in place.
High-Quality Farmland
The land itself is equally impressive. Featuring fertile Edon, Hagerstown, and Washington soils, this farm offers excellent conditions for crop production. With 76.6 acres under an agricultural conservation easement, the property is protected for continued farming use, ensuring its long-term value and preserving its rural character.
The setting is quiet and scenic, located on a low-traffic township road with generous road frontage. Despite its tranquil surroundings, the property is conveniently located near major routes, including easy access to Interstate 80, making transportation and logistics manageable.
Additional Features & Outdoor Appeal
Beyond the primary residence and farm buildings, the property includes a small cabin and a pavilion tucked into the back corner of the land. These features add recreational value, offering space for relaxation, hunting, or hosting gatherings in a private natural setting.
The expansive acreage provides endless possibilities—from expanding agricultural operations to creating a countryside retreat. The combination of open fields, functional buildings, and peaceful surroundings makes this property stand out in today’s market.
Auction Details
The auction day will be a full event, reflecting the scale and richness of the property:
8:30 AM – Personal property, antiques, and furniture
11:00 AM – Real estate auction
12:00 PM – Large equipment sale
This structured schedule allows buyers to explore not only the land and buildings but also the tools and items that have supported its operation over the years.
Final Thoughts
Properties like this are increasingly rare—combining historic residential charm, productive farmland, and extensive infrastructure in one cohesive package. Whether you’re seeking a working farm, an investment opportunity, or a unique rural lifestyle, this estate near Watsontown offers unmatched potential.
FROM ZILLOW