205 W Harrison St, Chester, IL 62233

Property Description

Welcome to Rose Manor! Theodore Harnagel named this home after his grandmother, Rosalie Polich. Ted or Dick (as so many called him) loved this home from 1970 until he went into the senior home in 2023. For history buffs, this home stems back to the early roots of Chester when the entire town was on the riverfront. Samuel Smith was the founder of Chester, and the original brick part of the home was built by Mr. Smith in 1829 (county says 1841) and believed to be the "first" brick and frame dwelling in Chester. The back addition was built around 1981. Ted added the "crows nest" dormer on the top for an unobstructed view of the mighty Mississippi. And that view is still spectacular. The home could use some repairs (flat roof on back section needs replaced) and updating, but the wood floors are original, the staircase is original, and the two fireplaces with original mantles are just works of art. The heirs who inherited this wonderful place hope that someone will purchase it who will love it and care for it like Uncle Ted did. It's going to take a special buyer who loves historical homes to really appreciate this one. Come and see what Rose Manor is like and watch the river roll by. Qualified buyers only please and cash or conventional loan will be all that works for this beauty. New metal roof was just installed (2026) on the front part of the home after the wind storm earlier this year. This isn't just a house - It's certainly a work of art. What an amazing bread and breakfast or Vrbo this could be. There are two parcels (2 lots) with this one, 203 and 205 W Harrison sold together. Come sit and watch the trains and barges go by while the new bridge is coming together. Ah...beautiful.