Circa 1843 Home Developed by Eliza Ann Jewett on the Market

Staff Report

Thursday, July 21st, 2022

Daniel Ravenel Sotheby's International Realty has listed c.1843 property 22 West Harris Street for $3,900,000. The 6,390-square-foot townhome was originally commissioned by real estate investor Eliza Ann Jewett, who owned numerous Savannah properties. A rare occurrence for women in the nineteenth century, her business dealings were often reported on in the local newspaper. Painstakingly renovated over three years by Hansen Architects and Pioneer Construction, the result is a seamless blend of historic character and modern conveniences.

The stately brick exterior on West Harris Street features a classic portico leading to the home's second-floor entrance through a solid wood door. From the 10' wide entry foyer, find original wood railings along the sweeping staircase, 12 1/2 inch baseboards, and wide plank heart pine floors (c. 1843) that continue throughout the home.

"As a history buff, it’s such a privilege to represent this property," said listing agent Ruthie Lynah Whitlow. “The current owners took care to retain as much original character as they could while modernizing the home. On top of that, Eliza Ann Jewett, who had the property built was this trailblazing female entrepreneur – in her 70s at the time!”

Generous living and dining rooms showcase intricate mantels made from Egyptian marble. Thoughtfully placed pocket doors and "disappearing" doors allow the dining room to open to the living room and kitchen for gatherings or segment the rooms for privacy. A bank of windows lets in an abundance of natural light in the spacious kitchen and overlooks the lush enclosed garden. 

“The second-floor living space is a great example of this beautiful pairing of old and new, it has a rich, traditional feel but can function as an open concept depending on the occasion,” noted Whitlow. “Another wonderful amenity is the three-stop elevator that runs from the street level up to the third floor where the primary suite is located.”

The garden/street level is comprised of a charmingly rustic informal living space with exposed brick, wooden beams, and two original fireplaces. A desirable retreat, this floor is complete with a full bathroom, wet bar, and high-quality folding door access to the covered patio.

The four generous bedrooms in the main house are located on the third and fourth floors. The primary has five closets, a bathroom with heated floors and towel bar, double vanities, and a separate water closet and bidet. An additional ensuite, currently functioning as a study, leads to a lovely balcony. There are two additional bedrooms on the fourth floor, one with views of St. John's steeple and the other with views of the courtyard, and each has a dedicated bathroom.

The carriage house, with street and courtyard doors, allows for off-street parking for 2-3 vehicles. Above, a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment with an efficiency kitchen provides additional guest space.

Less than a block from Madison Square, this four-story home is a beautifully preserved architectural gem in the heart of Savannah.

22 West Harris Street is exclusively listed by Ruthie Lynah Whitlow of Daniel Ravenel Sotheby’s International Realty. More information is available here: 22WHarris.com