115 Maple Ave, Franklin Township, NJ 08802

Lime Spring Farm Along a quiet country road lies Lime Spring Farm with stunning vistas overlooking the farm fields along the river and beyond. It is offered on a total of 132 acres and offers a 2nd home site on the adjoining separate 44 acre parcel. Across the road lies the river frontage portion of the farm fields which protect the views. The two large side by side parcels along the northern side of the road include small lots on the south side of the road with the river frontage. The land is breathtakingly beautiful and offers prime soils. The Musconetcong River Watershed area is a treasured region noted for trout production and fine fishing, with two nearby Fish and Game Clubs. It is also known for equestrian horse centers, wineries, environmental, sporting and farm activities. The site is steeped in history dating from the early 18th century, the present day manor house is reminiscent of gentler times and is thought to date to the early to mid 1800s. It was the 'showpiece' of a self-sustaining gentleman's farm commanding the valley. Today, the home is supported by numerous dependencies, including a 3 story "English Barn', a carriage building, a spring house, a two car garage, and a newly remodeled cottage. The stewardship of this land began in 1785 when a 405 acre tract was purchased by a William Runkle. At his death in 1839, a daughter Mary inherited 144 acres which included "a Mansion House and suitable farm buildings" further noting the high quality of the soils, abundant limestone and a spring of excellent water to the farm buildings. The present owners acquired title in 1968 and have lived there until the present. Behind the house and farm buildings is rising ground to a plateau of tree lined farm fields and pasture land. The river frontage southern parcels lying across the road are also farmed. There is a conservation easement on this portion and the land is Farmland Preserved. Held as separate 50+ acre side by side lots which include the river frontage fields, the present offering of 132 acres also supports the creation of a separate 2nd farm complex should another home be required. This undeveloped 50+ parcel also provides a 2 ½ acre exception area for buildings overlooking the valley fields along the river frontage. This parcel also shares incomparable views and privacy. The enchanting stone manse consists of gracefully proportioned rooms with intact period detailing and millwork. Five period fireplaces, wood floors, high ceilings and a front to back modern kitchen offer comfortable spaces for those seeking an elegant lifestyle. 15 rooms, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths along with a first floor Tavern Room with access to the finished basement room used for years as a business office complete this vintage home.