George Washington Tract Farm
4253 Bristol Road, Clinton, NY 13323
From King George III to George Washington and Governor George Clinton, the land beneath this estate traces the full transformation of America from colony to republic, from royal claim to democratic stewardship.
Washington Tract Farm: A Federal-Era Estate Rooted in American History
Built in 1790 on land gifted by George Washington and Governor George Clinton, Washington Tract Farm is more than a home. It is a living heirloom. Located in Kirkland just beyond the tree-lined streets of Clinton, New York, this Federal-style estate offers a rare chance to inhabit America’s early story.
The residence rises with quiet grandeur, its symmetry, tall pilasters, and elliptical windows exemplifying Federal design. Inside, hand-planed doors, mantels, and wide-plank floors attributed to early architect Isaac Williams endure.
Most remarkable is the oak-paneled library, designed by W. & J. Sloane of New York City, the famed luxury design house that furnished the White House, the Breakers, and Rockefeller, Whitney, and Vanderbilt homes. Modeled on Hampton Court, the library is a scholarly jewel echoing the intellectual spirit of nearby Hamilton College.
Spanning 5,084 square feet, the estate offers five bedrooms, four baths, and four fireplaces across two principal floors. A grand hall, parlors, and dining spaces flow, while private quarters and a walk-up attic preserve intimacy and adaptability. Enhanced with modern systems including electrical, plumbing, heating, and water filtration, the home lives easily while retaining its historic soul.
Set on 4.5 acres, the property is anchored by a pre–Civil War wrought iron fence and stone piers. Mature maples, heirloom plantings, rebuilt stone walls, and outbuildings recall its agrarian past. Once a working farm, today it offers tranquility.
Moments from Clinton village and Hamilton College, the estate balances permanence with cultural vitality. Lectures, concerts, and exhibitions enrich daily life. Legend suggests that freedom seekers once found sanctuary here, its cavernous hearth offering warmth on their journey north.
Each generation has honored the estate’s legacy, preserving history while allowing life to unfold within its walls. Washington Tract Farm is not merely a residence. It is an architectural treasure, a cultural neighbor, and a piece of America’s enduring story.
Are you ready to become its next worthy steward?
Offered by Confidential Bid
This American heirloom estate will be conveyed through a sealed bid process, with bidding to open at $960,000. Showings are by appointment only, and availability is limited. Interested purchasers must register in advance to be placed on the waiting list for access. A date and time for submission of offers will be announced, at which time all registered buyers may present their highest, best, and final offer for the seller’s consideration.
History of the Land
Colonial Context:
Before American independence, all land in New York was under the authority of the British crown. King George III inherited these powers from earlier monarchs who issued patents to wealthy investors and colonial leaders.
Coxe’s Patent (granted 1770s):
This was one of the large tracts in what is now Oneida County. The King’s role was essentially formal confirmation of ownership rights over vast unsettled regions, which were then parceled out to settlers and prominent families.
Transition Post-Revolution:
After the Revolution, the new U.S. government redistributed these lands. Washington and Clinton used them as grants to reward loyalty and encourage settlement, hence the 1790 deed transfer to Nathaniel Griffin.
Property Highlights
George Washington Tract Farm
4253 Bristol Road, Clinton, NY 13323
Offered at: $960,000
Built: Circa 1790 — Federal Period Architecture, Three-Story Home
Living Area: 5,084 sq ft
Lot Size: 4.49 acres
Bedrooms: 5
Baths: 4
Fireplaces: 4
Garage: 2-car garage
Original Outbuildings: Milk House & Smoke House
Utilities: Septic & Well
Current Annual Property Taxes: $11,152
Design & Provenance
Architect: Isaac Williams
Architectural Style: Federal with hallmark symmetry, pilasters, and elliptical windows
Notable Library: Oak-paneled, designed by W. & J. Sloane of New York City, the famed luxury design house that furnished the White House, the Breakers, and Rockefeller, Whitney, and Vanderbilt homes.
Location & Accessibility
Nearest Major Airport: Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), approximately 50 miles west of Clinton, NY.
Approximate Driving Distance to New York City: 221 miles, with an average drive time of around 4 hours and 42 minutes.
For those accustomed to the energy of big cities, Clinton, New York offers something different. Simplified, peaceful living with convenient access to shopping, notable restaurants, and rich cultural history.
Historical Significance
Chain of Ownership: King George III → Coxe → Washington & Clinton → Griffin
Legendary role in the Underground Railroad, where freedom seekers may have found warmth and sanctuary within its walls.
Iconic designer W. & J. Sloane creates a one-of-a-kind library at home that stands at George Washington Tract farm.
Sealed Bid Offering: Buyer Information Sheet
George Washington Tract Farm
4253 Bristol Road, Clinton, NY 13323
What is a Sealed Bid?
A sealed bid is a private method of submitting your best offer to purchase the property. Each interested buyer submits their highest and best offer in writing by a specific deadline. All offers remain confidential until the seller reviews them after the submission date.
This process ensures fairness and allows every buyer to present their most competitive terms without knowledge of other bids.
How It Works
Registration Required
Buyers must register in advance to be placed on the waiting list for showings.
Due to limited availability, showings are scheduled by appointment only.
Offer Deadline Announced
A date and time will be set for the submission of sealed bids.
All registered buyers will be notified in advance.
Submitting Your Offer
Offers must be submitted in writing by the deadline.
Each buyer is encouraged to submit their highest, best, and final offer, including purchase price, financing terms, and contingencies.
Seller’s Decision
Once the deadline passes, the seller will review all offers.
The seller will then make a decision based on the highest and best submission received.
There will be no negotiation or counteroffers after submission.
Next Steps
If you would like to:
Register to view the property
Be notified of the sealed bid submission date
Receive official offer instructions
