57 Farewell St, Newport, RI 02840

Description

Known as The Cozzens House, 57 and 59 Farewell Street is widely believed to be America's first duplex. Built circa 1750 by brothers Joseph and William Cozzens, it was described by historian Antoinette Downing as a rare and significant example of Colonial era multifamily architecture. An original Operation Clapboard restoration, it has been featured in books and magazines and held by the same family since 1969. The side by side residences mirror one another in scale and character. Each offers formal living and dining rooms, a study with built in bookcases, high ceilings, original staircases, and fireplaces with tile surrounds, twelve in all. 59 Farewell adds a finished third floor with bedrooms and a bath. A recent structural engineer's report found no significant structural deficiencies. Outside the Historic District, the property offers flexibility for improvements and can be converted to condominiums without requiring zoning approval, ideal for income, condo conversion, multigenerational living, or owner occupancy with rental income. On a corner lot at Farewell and Warner Streets, a walled garden offers a private retreat. Off street parking for three, with potential for six. Minutes to downtown Newport and the harbor. Shown by appointment. Inspection and structural reports available. Sold as is.