Step into a living piece of Indiana history. Construction of this limestone estate began in 1862 but was slowed by the Civil War-making its completion in the late 1870s not just a feat of architecture, but a reflection of the resilience and vision of its builder, John Matthews. Known as the Father of the Indiana Limestone Industry, Matthews poured his pioneering spirit into this French Second Empire masterpiece, now known as the Matthews Mansion. Perched on 2.76 peaceful acres just outside Bloomington, this home is said by family legend to have been inspired by renowned French architect Charles Garnier, designer of the Paris Opera House. Whether fact or folklore, the influence is clear: from the 22-inch-thick hand-carved limestone walls and mansard slate roof to the intricate iron cresting and 45-foot limestone veranda adorned with carved faces believed to represent Matthews' children. Inside, the legacy continues with soaring 12-foot ceilings, original black walnut trim, three functional fireplaces (including the original kitchen hearth), etched red and blue glass transoms, and plaster details that speak to a level of craftsmanship nearly lost to time. Thoughtful updates bring modern ease-soapstone countertops, smart home tech, updated mechanicals-while honoring the home's character. The property also includes a hidden bookshelf wine cellar, spa-inspired marble primary bath, custom closets, a barnwood garage, limestone firepit, and extensive restoration that has preserved both structure and soul. With only four owners since 1955, and a preserved archive of photos and lore passed between them, this is more than a home-it's a generational story of artistry, ambition, and Indiana's industrial heritage.
Sold
$875,000
6445 W Maple Grove Rd, Ellettsville, IN 47429
3beds
4,386sqft
Residential, Single Family Residence
Built in 1868
2.76 Acres Lot
$875,300 Zestimate®
$199/sqft
$4,304 Estimated rent
What's special
Zillow last checked: 7 hours ago
Listing updated: August 01, 2025 at 07:14am
Listing Provided by:
Christopher Smith 812-219-3030,
RE/MAX Acclaimed Properties
Bought with:
Christopher Smith
RE/MAX Acclaimed Properties
Non-BLC Member
MIBOR REALTOR® Association
Source: MIBOR as distributed by MLS GRID,MLS#: 22037272

Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 3
- Bathrooms: 3
- Full bathrooms: 2
- 1/2 bathrooms: 1
- Main level bathrooms: 1
Primary bedroom
- Level: Upper
- Area: 180 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 15x12
Bedroom 2
- Level: Upper
- Area: 225 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 15x15
Bedroom 3
- Level: Upper
- Area: 99 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 9x11
Dining room
- Level: Main
- Area: 180 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 15x12
Family room
- Features: Other
- Level: Basement
- Area: 270 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 18x15
Kitchen
- Level: Main
- Area: 240 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 16x15
Library
- Level: Main
- Area: 180 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 15x12
Living room
- Level: Main
- Area: 255 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 15x17
Other
- Features: Other
- Level: Basement
- Area: 234 Square Feet
- Dimensions: 18x13
Heating
- Forced Air, Natural Gas
Cooling
- Central Air
Appliances
- Included: Gas Cooktop, Dishwasher, Double Oven, Refrigerator
Features
- Built-in Features, High Ceilings, Kitchen Island, Hardwood Floors, High Speed Internet, Pantry, Smart Thermostat, Walk-In Closet(s)
- Flooring: Hardwood
- Basement: Egress Window(s),Partially Finished,Walk-Out Access
- Number of fireplaces: 3
- Fireplace features: Family Room, Kitchen, Living Room
Interior area
- Total structure area: 4,386
- Total interior livable area: 4,386 sqft
- Finished area below ground: 731
Property
Parking
- Total spaces: 4
- Parking features: Detached
- Garage spaces: 4
Features
- Levels: Two
- Stories: 2
- Patio & porch: Covered, Porch
- Exterior features: Fire Pit
Lot
- Size: 2.76 Acres
- Features: Mature Trees
Details
- Additional structures: Barn Mini
- Parcel number: 530403400021000011
- Horse amenities: None
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Architectural style: French Provincial
- Property subtype: Residential, Single Family Residence
Materials
- Stone
- Foundation: Block, Stone
Condition
- New construction: No
- Year built: 1868
Utilities & green energy
- Water: Public
Community & neighborhood
Location
- Region: Ellettsville
- Subdivision: No Subdivision