Inside Look: 5 homes with fantastic history

Philadelphia has no shortage of historic sites, and guaranteed we’ve all visited at least one, on a school trip oron a family vacation. But with July Fourth around the corner, we wondered what it would be like to own a piece of our nation’s history.

These five houses, all built before 1900, contain elements of original construction. One is just steps from the Independence Mall; others are on secluded back roads, far from prying eyes and camera-toting tourists.

247 Pine St., Philadelphia

Built in 1802, this stunning townhome predates ‘pre-war’ by about 140years. A school teacher, Thomas Watson constructed this home on a charming Society Hill street just blocks from Old City.

This fourbed, three-and-a-half bath stunner boasts a fully renovated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, oversized windows overlooking Pine Street out front and the garden in the backand exposed brick walls. For $1.395 million, this home doesn’t skimp on size; at 1,780 square feet, every inch is livable space, from the finished basement to the fourth-floor bedroom with an ensuite-style bathroom.

726 Conshohocken State Road, Penn Valley

This spectacular home is actually a renovated barn and stable dating back to 1850 and converted under the vision of designer and previous owner William Sklaroff. Live comfortably in a piece of history, with a modernized kitchen and bathrooms, exposed stone walls, wood-burning stoves, Renaissance-paneled barn doors and even anelevator.Selling for$1.195million, this four-bedroomproperty is “close to the highways, Center City and shopping, but you’ll feel like you’re miles from the hustle and bustle of it all,” the listing states.

22 Roberts Avenue, Haddonfield, New Jersey

Martin Van Buren was elected president, and Texas had declared its independence from Mexico when this house was built in 1836. Haddonfield’sgorgeous outdoor spaces, top schools and charming downtown shopping and dining options are conveniently close to this five-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home. The master bedroom boasts of a walk-in closet, custom shelving and a stunning master bath. High-end appliances modernize the kitchen, while wood beams and paneling help maintain the home’s history. For $739,000, it’s a must-see.

8860 Norwood Ave., Philadelphia

Six bedrooms, six bathrooms, seven fireplaces, a laundry chute and a billiards room round out this massiveQueen AnneVictorian mansion in Chestnut Hill. This inviting home is perfect for entertaining, from its large dining room to expansive outdoor space. But it doesn’t skimp on the little details, like its carved ceiling panels on the first floor, or the custom cabinetry throughout.

Selling for $1.395 million, this stunning Victorian lady offers all the convenience of city life without Philly’s noise and buzz.

8847 Norwood Ave., Philadelphia

Just down the street from the previous listing sits “Hollowood,” a miniature estate that’s more like a fairytale scene than a home. Built in 1866,Hollowood isn’t just one building, but a collection of three restored homes on a three-acre plot with a peaceful stream. The main residence is a restored carriage house with woodwork craftedto matchoriginal details, exposed beams, wide-plank floors and Juliet balconies off the master suite. The second residence boasts a library, kitchenette and guest bedroom — perfect for visitors or tenants. The third building, Greenhouse studio, is your afternoon getaway or a spot for a quick warm-up by the wood stove when it snows. This four-bedroom, five-bathroom retreat could be yours for $1.875 million.