David A. Barnes House

One of the Most Prestigious Homes in Northeastern North Carolina, this Two-Story Italianate Comes With Over 8 Acres of Land in Charming Murfreesboro!

Listed on the National Register Historic Places, the David A. Barnes House of Murfreesboro is one of the most prestigious homes in northeastern North Carolina. Built in 1875, it is one of the last and most elaborate to be designed and built by Jacob W. Holt. The property consists of over 8 acres, mostly fenced, with several contributing outbuildings.

The main house is an Italianate two-story, three-bay wide, whipped roof, wood frame home. The home has 12-foot ceilings, refinished heart pine floors, original doors, windows, baseboards, and 8 fireplaces. A wide front porch leads to a breathtaking front entry foyer. The center hallway divides the two front rooms and the two rear rooms on each floor with a formal staircase in the front foyer and a more simple staircase at the rear. The downstairs rooms are more elaborate, with the center hallway and three of the rooms offering decorative plaster crown moldings. The two front rooms have original sliding pocket doors that lead out onto side porches. There is also a den or library, which could be used as a main level bedroom with full en suite.

The main floor has a full bath with antique fixtures and a half bath, laundry room, dining room, breakfast room, and modern kitchen with high-end appliances. The downstairs back hallway leads onto a covered porch and deck, perfect for enjoying the private back yard. The upstairs has four rooms and a full bath. The home is heated with a gas pack and heat pump and has central a/c as well. Hot water is provided with a propane on-demand water heater. Top-of-the-line Velvalume storm windows protect the windows and help insulate the home.

There is a hay barn, stable, four-seater privy, chicken shed, garden shed, cook’s house, and cabin. The cook’s house has been restored, has a mini split for heat and a/c, and is a perfect spot for a home office or studio. The cabin would be a great or home office with renovations. This treasure is protected by historic covenants and is eligible for tax discount. 

The David A. Barnes House is under protective covenants held by Preservation North Carolina. Please contact Dawn Williams at dwilliams@presnc.org or 919-832-3652 x221 to request a copy of these covenants.