Spruce Acres Estate (AKA - The Mammoth Manor)
Historic Greek Revival Estate with Income Potential | Coastal Access, Estate Scale, and Modern Flexibility - This Property is being SOLD AS IS
A rare opportunity to own a circa-1840 Greek Revival estate, thoughtfully restored and maintained, offering a unique combination of timeless architectural character and modern functionality.
Set on approximately 2.3 landscaped acres in the heart of Camden, Kent County, this distinctive property reflects a comprehensive restoration that preserves historic integrity while supporting a wide range of contemporary uses. Originally constructed with classic craftsmanship and architectural presence, the home underwent significant improvements in 2006, including structural updates, exterior restoration, geothermal HVAC installation, electrical and plumbing upgrades, and thoughtful reconfiguration of interior spaces, alongside preservation of original woodwork and detailing.
The result is a property that blends historic significance with operational flexibility, offering estate-scale living rarely found at comparable price points within the Northeast corridor.
Ideally positioned within comfortable reach of Delaware's coastal destinations, the property provides access to beach towns, recreation, and seasonal amenities, while maintaining the space, privacy, and value of an inland estate setting.
The property is currently configured with multiple suites and occupants, generating approximately $7,500-$9,000 per month in gross rental income, while still allowing for a seamless transition to a full private residence, live/work environment, or continued mixed-use configuration, subject to applicable zoning and approvals. Existing arrangements are primarily year-to-year; buyers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence regarding future use, occupancy, and income potential.
Architectural highlights include:
Classic Greek Revival proportions Original millwork and fireplaces Grand central staircase Generous ceiling heights and natural light throughout Wraparound porch and well-proportioned interior spaces
Additional features include an updated apartment area adaptable for residential use and a detached annex suitable for office, studio, guest accommodations, or other permitted uses.
The property has received national exposure, including a feature on CNBC, reflecting its distinctive character and history. (This video is included in the listing below, please note the pricing reflected in this video is NOT current. It was from 2013.) In addition to being featured on multiple television spotlights, segments, and news events including recognition as the Historic Renovation Award in 2007 - located on the National Historic Register Block on Main St in Camden, DE. This property has served the path to freedom for slaves, captures the Philadelphia Greek Revival architecture with complete authenticity. It is listed on HABS (Historic American Building Survey,) along with notoriety from This Old House, as well as Delaware Today and other written news publications.
Spruce Acres, also historically known as the Moldde Farm, the Hunn-Jenkins House and the Hartman-Miller house, was built c. 1840 by a prominent local farmer Hunn Jenkins. The building is an outstanding example of Greek Revival Architecture and was listed in the National register of Historic places in 1974. The house also has secret quarters which are believed to have been used for the underground railroad and Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania houses pre-Civil War, anti-slavery literature collected from the house.
With its combination of acreage, architectural significance, flexible configuration, and proximity to both coastal destinations and major Northeast markets, this offering presents a unique opportunity for a variety of ownership strategies.
Please note that this property is sold AS IS.