Historic Majesty: 1851 Territorial & Neoclassical Masterpiece | $900,000

Nestled in the heart of Saint Paul’s highly coveted Irvine Park Historic District, the Wright–Prendergast House offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own one of the city’s earliest surviving architectural landmarks.

Dating back to 1851—nearly a decade before Minnesota achieved statehood—the home began as a modest territorial-era dwelling built by pioneer carpenter Isaac P. Wright. In 1906, the property underwent a breathtaking evolution for its second owner, James Prendergast. Local architect Mark Fitzpatrick introduced a grand Neoclassical façade defined by a commanding, two-story Ionic portico, creating a structural tour de force that flawlessly bridges two distinct eras of American architecture.

 

💎 Interiors of Exceptional Distinction: The Gilded Age Legacy

Generations of continuous, single-family stewardship have kept this home’s authentic character untouched. The residence remained in the Prendergast family for more than a century, protecting a level of preservation rarely seen on the market.

During the monumental 1906 renovation, architectural treasures were salvaged from the demolished, legendary Norman Kittson Mansion and meticulously integrated here:

Opulent Living Spaces: Light-filled formal parlors anchored by exquisite salvaged marble fireplaces.

Artistic Lighting: Stunning, authentic Waterford crystal chandeliers that cast a warm, historic glow across the grand entertaining rooms.

Period Details: Magnificent stained-glass windows, soaring ceilings, original custom millwork, and massive pocket doors that define early Twin Cities high society.

 

🔧 Extensively Restored & Mechanicals Brought to the 21st Century

While the home retains 175 years of historic soul, the current owners have undertaken an exhaustive, gut-to-studs modern restoration of its core infrastructure. Move in with complete peace of mind, knowing the heavy lifting has already been masterfully completed:

The Kitchen: Completely gutted to the studs and masterfully renovated into a premier space for modern culinary life.

Primary Suite Luxury: A brand-new primary suite bathroom and dedicated laundry addition, including a new gas line run directly to the primary suite fireplace.

Structural & Systems: Comprehensive asbestos abatement, all boiler pipes fully replaced, and the historic chimney entirely rebuilt and lined.

Exterior & Grounds: Complete restoration and fresh historical paint across the exterior siding, fascia, porch, and majestic columns. The 0.41-acre corner lot has been enhanced with professional landscaping, beautiful terracing, and an intensive exterior drain tile system.

 

📍 An Unbeatable Irvine Park Location

Set on a picturesque, park-facing street, this home is a contributing resource to the National Register of Historic Places. It is a tangible piece of Saint Paul’s evolution from a territorial settlement to a thriving capital city. Enjoy quiet, small-community tranquility right around the square, all while being minutes away from downtown Saint Paul’s dining, theater, and culture.

A rare chance to become the next caretaker of a true Minnesota legend.

Zillow link https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/223-Walnut-St-Saint-Paul-MN-55102/2050833_zpid/

Listed by: Constance E Vork 612-396-4046, Keller Williams Realty Integrity Lakes