Character may be an overused word in real estate, but it’s a rare home that exhibits as much warm gravitas as Old Hankins Manor. From the moment you pull up the drive, past the private half acre pond and up to the wraparound rocking chair porch, you’re struck by a sense of timelessness and comfortable elegance.

Tucked back from the quiet country road, this home has stood sentinel over the surrounding farmland for over 125 years. The formal front entrance welcomes you into a generous foyer with ornate staircase. Nestled behind this is a cozy media room, tucked away from the rest of the living space. The sitting room and den with stone double-sided fireplace welcome you into the primary entertaining space, then through to the spacious formal dining room, with the other face of the fireplace and wooden built-in shelving. The kitchen is highly functional while retaining an old country charm – think red checkered linens, aged porcelain sink, weathered wood and fresh baked cherry pies. Off this space is a convenient pantry with floor to ceiling cabinets and an additional sink. A full bathroom off the kitchen also houses a washer/dryer unit.

At the second floor landing, you’ll find a lovely, sunny sitting room before heading down the hallway housing five bedrooms, each with a distinct character, allowing you to direct your guests to the ‘lilac room’ or the ‘red room’. There are two full bathrooms on this floor, one with a clawfoot tub, positioned under a dramatic stained glass window, and another with a tiled shower with charming old-style fixtures.

The third floor houses a massive primary suite. The bedroom features a circus-tent-like peaked ceiling, working brick fireplace and large sitting area. A full en suite bath offers another clawfoot soaking tub and walk in tiled shower with skylight. A charming dressing room and large glass-encased office finish off this floor.

Outside, a pathway off the back of the house leads past a stone patio with fire pit to the heated pool. The simple layout of the this area allows you to appreciate the natural privacy of open fields and mature trees. To the other side of the property, the clear freshwater pond offers opportunities for swimming, paddling, and peaceful contemplation. The front lawn is large and lightly sloping, making it inviting for lawn games for your family and friends. Almost unbelievably, this idyllic escape is also just a ten minute walk to all the charms and conveniences of Main Street, Callicoon.