The David A. Barnes House: Italianate Crown on the National Register

On the National Register of Historic Places, the David A. Barnes Home is one of the most prestigious homes in northeastern North Carolina. Built in 1875 in Murfreesboro, NC, it is one of the last and most elaborate to be designed and built by Jacob W. Holt. The property consists of over 8 acres, mostly fenced, with several contributing outbuildings. The main house is an Italianate two-story, three-bay wide, hipped roof, wood frame home. The home has 12′ ceilings, refinished heart pine floors, original doors, windows, baseboards, and 8 fireplaces. A wide front porch leads to a breathtaking front entry foyer. The center hallway divides the two front rooms and the two rear rooms on each floor with a formal staircase in the front foyer and a more simple staircase at the rear. The downstairs rooms are more elaborate, with the center hallway and three of the rooms offering decorative plaster crown moldings. The two front rooms have original sliding pocket doors that lead out onto side porches. There is also a den or library, which could be used as a main level bedroom with full en suite. The main floor has a full bath with antique fixtures and a half bath, laundry room, dining room, breakfast room, and modern kitchen with high-end appliances. The downstairs back hallway leads onto a covered porch and deck, perfect for enjoying the private back yard. The upstairs has four rooms and a full bath. There are permanent stairs leading to a spacious floored attic. The home is heated with a gas pack and heat pump, and has central air conditioning as well. Hot water is provided with a propane on-demand water heater. Top-of-the-line Velvalume storm windows protect the windows and help insulate the home. There is a hay barn, stable, four-seater privy, chicken shed, garden shed, cook’s house, and cabin. The cook’s house has been restored, has a mini split for heat and a/c, and is a perfect spot for a home office or studio. The cabin would be a great guest house or home office with renovations. This treasure is protected by historic covenants and eligible for tax discount.

As seen in Garden & Gun Magazine

On the National Register of Historic Places

Details

Property ID
529458

5
Bedrooms

2.1
Bathrooms

Square Footage
4600

Lot Size
8.18

Year Built
1875

Style
Italianate

Property Website