History and convenience converge in Selkirk

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This article was published 23/09/2023 (769 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

It’s an unfortunate fact of life that we often overlook some very special properties because they’re tucked away just far enough off the beaten track that we miss them altogether.

That can happen all too easily with a historic home found at the very end of 102 Pacific Ave. in Selkirk.

Known as the Colcleugh House, the 1,729 sq. ft., two-storey home was built for Frederick Colcleugh on a choice three-quarter-acre lot that’s nestled in a mature collection of trees just a short distance from the Red River.

A pharmacist by trade, he was one Selkirk’s original residents, who served as the city’s first fire chief and at one point, as mayor.

And while the city was founded in 1882, the Colcleugh House predates the city by about nine years.

“It was built around 1873,” says George Hacking, who’s marketing the heritage home with his daughter, Kasey. “It was on the frontier and was one of the first homes to be built in the area.”

Today — with all the trees around it having had some 150 years to mature — the main house and an adjacent structure known simply as the carriage house — is encircled by arbors of all descriptions, creating a secluded, countrified feel.

“It’s a little bit of country in the middle of the city,” he says. “It’s like living in a park.”

Indeed, when you walk up to the home, the trees and various types of flora envelope you, transporting you into your own enchanted little piece of heaven.

At the end of the winding sidewalk is the main house, its vintage 1800’s design taking center stage. Its design was ahead of its time, with large, oversized windows (including a magnificent bay window) dominating the front of the home.

Once inside, the home is filled with loads of light, character and function.

“It has been exceptionally well taken care of and upgraded, offering the charming character of the 1800’s, yet with all the modern conveniences of 2023,” notes Hacking.

First, there’s the living room, with its bay window (which comes with a window seat) and original wide plank hardwoods and a big window on the side wall that lets in more daylight.

It then transitions into a lovely sitting room that comes with a wood burning fireplace, another large window, more original hardwoods, and yet another huge window.

Then, there’s the bright, cheery kitchen, which is at once modern, and character filled.

“The Heartland stove adds a vintage wow factor to the custom kitchen, which is also outfitted with a Fisher & Paykel two drawer dishwasher, a farmhouse sink, and stainless-steel refrigerator,” he says. “It’s a wonderful space.”

Head upstairs via an original staircase – which is bordered by a gorgeous hand carved handrail – and you find three bedrooms, including a spacious primary bedroom that’s next to an updated main bath that’s centred around a classic clawfoot tub.

“It offers direct access to the bedroom,” Hacking says. “The bedroom is in a great spot, set away from the other two bedrooms, and looks out on to all the mature trees.”

Meanwhile, a fetching screen door on the kitchen’s side wall leads out to a lovely, covered porch that opens onto a private courtyard (with summer kitchen) that’s surrounded by all sorts of stunning greenery.

The secluded patio also backs onto the magnificent one-and-a-half storey, 750 sq. ft. carriage house, which is currently known as Hook & Tassel.

“It’s also from the 1800’s,” he says. “It’s had a complete makeover, from plumbing to electrical to the open concept living space. Sleeping accommodations are upstairs, and there’s even a heated floor in the bathroom; a private wraparound deck that overlooks a meadow, the river, and Selkirk Golf Course. It could be a guest house, granny suite or money-making Air BNB.”

In addition to the amazing courtyard, there are multiple places to relax and host: an area for a table and chairs beneath a huge shade tree, and a lovely gazebo that could be a playhouse for the kids or quiet spot to sit back and read a book in.

Hacking says the main house and carriage house are ready for a new owner that appreciates history and country charm.

“It’s a hidden gem. When you’re here, you feel like you’re in the country, yet you’re just five minutes from a host of conveniences. It’s a great opportunity, a one-of-a-kind home that has so much to offer.”

lewys@mymts.net