The Historic Shankle House Offers One-Of-A-Kind Opportunity (Previously Listed) -

If the “Seaborn M. Shankle” property looks like a scene straight out of a movie, it is probably because it was the inspiration for one. The second oldest house in historic Commerce, Georgia, this picture-perfect home built in 1843 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 174 Cherry Street in the heart of downtown, just across from Commerce City Hall, this 1.5+/- acre property provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of history with a rich and storied past.

The inspiration for Olive Ann Burns’ best-selling novel, “Cold Sassy Tree,” and subsequent movie by the same name, The Shankle House, reflects the charm and sophistication of a more relaxing time. From the wide comfortable front porch to the blueberry bushes and fig, walnut and pecan trees that dot the landscape, this beloved home represents an important part of the city’s heritage.

Just an hour northeast of Atlanta, this captivating property was constructed by Seaborn Shankle. One of the area’s earliest settlers and merchants, the Shankles were responsible for much of the economic growth and development of Commerce – formerly known as Harmony Grove (named for Seaborn’s mother). Built in two stages, first as a simple one-story, two-room cottage, and in 1870 expanded to the two-story Italianate style home you see from the street today.

Most recently purchased in 2000, the original character and period details of this southern charmer have been meticulously and thoughtfully restored, maintained and modernized by its current owners, returning much of it to its original glory and helping to preserve a “snapshot in time” that has all too often been lost in the name of advancement.

A long way from its humble beginnings, The Shankle House today features five bedrooms, three full bathrooms and 4,500+/- square feet of living space. As you stroll up the brick walk, you cannot help but imagine yourself sipping sweet tea on the idyllic front porch and watching life in this quintessential southern town unfold from the cover of the towering oaks.

From the moment you enter this outstanding home, you are swept back in time – from the wraparound covered porch and antique pine floors to the 10-foot ceilings and period detailing, every room in this finely crafted home reveals a piece of the past. On either side of the grand hallway, you will find two nearly identical living spaces. Currently a music room and formal living room, these lovely rooms can be used in a variety of ways based on your unique needs. As you make your way toward the back of the house, there is a banquet-sized dining room with an antique carved fireplace mantel. Able to accommodate 12+, this gorgeous space is perfect for large gatherings and entertaining.

Flooded with beautiful natural light, the main floor bedroom is conveniently located near one of two full bathrooms on this level. The updated bathroom has a walk-in shower, plenty of storage space and a laundry area. The second bathroom has also been updated and features an antique clawfoot tub.

Working in the kitchen won’t feel like a chore when you have fabulous views from an expansive wall of windows over the sink. Thoughtfully updated to incorporate modern conveniences while retaining its country charm, this bright and inviting farmhouse kitchen boasts white beadboard cabinets, solid surface countertops, stainless steel appliances and a walk-in pantry.

A cozy room off the kitchen is currently used as a casual dining space – perfect for informal meals or feeding smaller groups – it could also be used as a family/keeping room. From the kitchen, you also can access an enclosed porch, providing access to the rear patio and backyard.
Up the main staircase, you arrive at the upper hall. Long and wide enough for multiple seating areas, it leads to four additional bedrooms and a third full bathroom, featuring hardwood floors, 10-foot ceilings and a fireplace in the main bedroom.

The grounds of the Shankle House are equally as charming as the home. Off the side porch is a sparkling in-ground pool – the spot for a cool dip on a hot day or just lounging poolside with a cold drink. The property also offers several outbuildings, including the original smokehouse, a storage shed and a four-bay garage – ideal for your car collection or for commercial use. The Shankle family cemetery is even part of the estate!

Zoned residential/commercial, The Shankle House offers endless possibilities to live and/or work in the heart of Commerce’s business district. Do not miss the opportunity to make this important piece of the past part of your future. If you are ready to be added to the history books of the Seaborn M. Shankle House, contact Sandra Carey or Colin Sawyer and schedule a private tour of this special property today.

Offered for $535,000
174 Cherry Street | Commerce, Georgia 30529

5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 4,500+/- Square Feet