The Warner House 1769

Warner House Summary

Link to Listing 125 Front St Beaufort, NC

Hello! I have a 257 year old historic property that I believe may be a compelling fit for your coverage of Southern homes, architecture, history, preservation, and coastal living.

The Warner House, located at125 Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina, is a remarkable waterfront residence that was incorporated into the famed Davis Boarding House, and represents a rare convergence of Southern history, architectural preservation, and family legacy.

Situated along Beaufort’s iconic waterfront, the home dates to back prior to the American Revolution (1769) and retains many of the historic features that define the character of one of North Carolina’s oldest coastal communities. The property blends original craftsmanship and period details with modern livability, all while overlooking Taylors Creek and the Beaufort waterfront.

Adding another layer to the story is the home’s owner, Gordon Smith, grandson of Clarence Hamilton Poe, the influential publisher and editor of The Progressive Farmer. Poe’s publishing legacy helped shape Southern journalism for generations, and the company he led ultimately became the foundation from which Southern Living was launched. Gordon Smith sought to make his own legacy in business, education, philanthropy, and is a founder of Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh, NC.

My favorite part of the home’s story is how an unmarried woman, ”Miss” Sarah Davis, purchased the Warner house and the neighboring properties in the late 1880s to create the Davis Boarding House and ran this successful hotel from 1882-WWII.

With its waterfront setting, architectural significance, preservation and history, we thought the home might be of interest for a feature.

Professional photography, historical information, and additional background on the property are attached. I can also send link to full photography package or any additional information!

Interior Design, Christina Baker of Beaufort Linen Co

Photography: Brad Bunyea

• Home is originally the “Warner House” built in 1769 making it older than the American Revolution /The United States of America
• “Miss” Sarah Davis, a woman ahead of her time, purchased the Warner House and the adjoining properties to create the Davis Boarding House, a popular hotel that operated from 1882-WWII
• The Davis Boarding House (the combined houses of 119-125 Front St) has the longest porch in Beaufort with a total of 13 bays
• Davis Boarding house was saved from demolition in the 1970s from the Duke Marine Lab, with the help of Tony P. Wrenn who got word up to Terry Sanford
• Converted into 4 condo units in the 2000s, stilled dubbed ”Davis Boarding House”
• Renovated and currently owned by Gordon and Beverly Smith
• Gordon’s great grandfather
• 125 Front St featured in 2023 Beaufort Old Homes Tour
• 3 bed, 2 full 2 half  bath, ~2429 sqft
• 60ft deeded deep water boat slip