Norwood On Hamilton Harbour

Norwood On Hamilton Harbour, 34 Pitts Bay Road, Bermuda – Sinclair Realty

In Bermuda, the very best locations are often those occupied by the earliest homes, particularly those dating to the 17th Century when settlers had their choice of the island's prime acreage. Such is the case with Norwood, perhaps Bermuda's most iconic historical estate. The land on which Norwood now stands was deeded in the early 1600s as compensation to the English mathematician and land surveyor Richard Norwood, who was engaged by the Somers Isle Company to conduct the first survey of the entire island. Interestingly, he was also the first in the world to measure a degree of latitude. The home itself is believed to have been built later, c. 1707, by Samuel Saltus, whose family owned it for 175 years before it passed to the Darrell family (according to Bermudian lore, the Darrells won Norwood in a game of chance). Now, more than 300 years young, Norwood continues to stand -- authentic and strong -- as one of the most beautiful waterfront estates Bermuda has to offer. Set in central Pembroke Parish, just moments from the City of Hamilton with its financial district, fine dining, schools, and commercial conveniences, the 3.7-acre waterfront estate is approached by a long private drive leading from the Pitts Bay Road. The south-facing Norwood main house is designed in the cruciform shape so typical of the period. Some say it gained favour amongst superstitious settlers to ward off evil spirts. In more practical terms, the cross-shaped design takes full advantage of prevailing breezes. In any event, Norwood is perhaps the grandest of such houses and, arguably, one of the most important homes in the Western Hemisphere. Thick limestone walls, pointed gables, and stepped chimneys are also typical, as are the 'eyebrow' motifs above the windows (intended to protect the windows from rain). The deep wrap-around veranda featuring absolutely stunning harbour views is a 19th Century addition. Inside the main house with four-bedrooms, three full bathrooms and one partial bathroom, architectural standouts are the gorgeous internal cedar work, beamed ceilings, pine flooring, numerous fireplaces and blown-glass windowpanes. Other appointments tell the fascinating storey of the families who lived here for generations. Examples include the newel posts on the staircase, which were removed and replaced with candles in the evenings and on festive occasions; powdering rooms - now converted into alcoves- where colonial ladies and gentleman once powdered their wigs; and a massive cedar fireplace, intricately carved by Boer war prisoners who were held in Bermuda in the 19th Century. Despite the rich history, this home offers plenty of luxury and convenience. Renovations over the last 20 years by the current owners have brought Norwood up to date while respecting its period character. The main house is flanked by Norwood Mews (a charming one-bedroom guest apartment) , the Carriage House (comprising a recently renovated studio apartment plus a large garage) and the Stable with its tack room and multiple stalls. The grounds include the large paddock (formerly a tennis court), a swimming pool, beautiful old stone walls, gardens, and orchards. Ideal for boaters, the Norwood property includes a wonderful private peninsula with a deep water dock extending into the harbour plus a registered mooring in the protected bay. On the sandy site of the old bath house is a perfect protected spot for barbecuing and sea swimming. This property is available to International Purchasers, as well as Bermudians, PRC Holders, and British Overseas Territory Citizens deemed to 'belong to Bermuda'.