215 E Springfield Rd, Springfield, PA 19064
Welcome to Chick-A-Biddy Hill! Construction of this amazing historic property began in 1754 by Jehu Maris, the great grandson of George Maris. George Maris was one of the original Penn land grant purchasers and came to the colonies in 1683 with his six children. The name Springfield is attributed to Mr. Maris for discovering a natural spring on his newly acquired lands. While the Maris family emigrated from Worcester county in England, there is actually a named ‘hill’ in Surrey, England called Chicakabiddy Hill! Further research might reveal that some other descendants (maybe from Jehu’s wife, Jane Humphrey’s lineage) came to the new world from Surrey. What stands today is a remarkably intact, yet thoughtfully updated 18th century farmhouse on a large 1.2 acre parcel of ground. Even the locals likely do not know that this house exists, as the entire property surrounding the house was developed between the 1930’s to the 1950’s.
As one pulls down the tree-lined drive, one can see a peek of the private in-ground pool immediately to the left. Tucked all the way in the front corner of the front yard, it’s a great space for summer (and even Spring & Fall) entertaining as the systems also provide for propane heating of the pool. The land then expands significantly, and to the right of the driveway, one finds a spacious 2-car carport. The driveway continues beyond the carport, where a circular drive provides for ample guest parking and also access to the detached, extra-long 2-car garage. Here, one can easily park 2 vehicles and still have ample space in front of the vehicles for additional storage or a work shop. There are multiple access points into the house. There is a lovely front patio overlooking the yard. Entering into the front (side) door into the dining room, the staircase to the upper floors is immediately in front of you.
Turn to the left, and you enter into the original 1754 residence. Today, this is one huge living room that is 32′ long with two fireplaces flanking each end. Originally, this would have been two parlors separated by a staircase to the 2nd. Off the living room is a beautiful family room that was added in the 1950’s, yet feels like it was part of the original home that has reclaimed ceiling beams and a massive walk-in fireplace (currently with a wood stove). The beamed header over the fireplace opening is massive. The floors are random-width and pegged Oak. One has direct access to the sunroom addition, with two full walls of windows and a French door to the rear patio. The kitchen was renovated in 2004 and provides a large eat-in area for a farmhouse table with beautiful tiled floors and custom cabinetry throughout. There is a large mudroom with the laundry & powder room that provides the easiest access to the garage and driveway.
On the 2nd floor, the primary suite comprises four distinct spaces. The sleeping chamber has another fireplace and tons of built-in cabinets, cubbies and a wall of closets. A small sitting room is tucked into one corner with yet another. This could easily be modified to provide space for a walk-in closet. The ensuite bathroom was renovated in 2008 and has radiant floor heating. The secret room is accessed directly to the right of the fireplace, it’s a large space that is currently used as the current owner’s toy train room! There are two more spacious bedrooms and a hall bathroom on the 2nd floor. Up to the 3rd floor, there is a large area at the stair landing that could be used for home study or a playroom. Each corner of the 3rd floor has functional space. There are 2 additional bedrooms PLUS a 3rd room (without a closet) that could be another home office, another full bathroom and a large walk-in cedar closet. The majority of the property is fenced. There is a great sense of tranquility & privacy in the midst of a suburban development. Come discover Chick-A-Biddy Hill and fall in love with its history!
Scott Laughlin • scott.laughlin@foxroach.com • (215) 275-1685
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Fox & Roach, Realtors
Photography Credit: Shawn May Photography
