313 Mendham Rd W, Mendham, NJ 07945

Built in 1781, Ralston Manor's grandeur and grace has stood the test of time. John and Margaret Ralston purchased the home and the adjacent stone mill in 1785 from Margaret's father, John Logan; he was a commissary to General George Washington who supplied the Continental Army at Jockey Hollow with food and flour ground at the grist mill. John Ralston then built the building on the corner (not included in the sale and opened a general store that served the community until 1893. Ralston sent local goods such as iron, peach brandy and Applejack to New York via stagecoach. The home was owned by the Ralston family until 1833, when it was sold to John Wick Ledell. It was owned by members of the Ledell family until the 1950s. Ralston Manor has retained many of its original features. It was built in the Federal style using post and beam construction; the framing has heavy beams pinned together with oak pins. A wide center hall's front and rear doors allow cool breezes to flow through the house, and both doors appear to be original. There is a gambrel roof, twin chimneys on either side of the house built with bricks imported from England, and eight fireplaces, one in every room. The windows are 12 over 12 panes, filling the rooms with an abundance of natural light. Original hardwood floors of variable lengths, an original stairway and banister could not be replicated today. Exposed beams in the walk-up third floor attic create a dramatic sight overhead. Newer central air conditioning, a newer boiler, whole house generator, swimming pool with liner, barn with two-car garage, gardens and privacy make this unique residence a special place in a serene setting. Mendham is known for its award-winning schools, annual parades, close proximity to Morristown and NJ Transit trains for Midtown Direct service. Buyers seeking an historic home that has been lovingly maintained and respected will appreciate the longstanding legacy of Ralston Manor.