‘Old Yellow’ in Rhode Island’s Wickford Village Wants $1.7M

The oldest home in Rhode Island’s Wickford Village, which is fondly called Old Yellow, is newly available for $1,695,000.

It was last sold in 2020 for $761,250. The waterfront property in North Kingstown is quite the find, as the idyllic location is close to the state airport and Boston’s commuter train. It’s also within walking distance of the local fish market, parks, marinas, shops, schools, and the library.

Known by some as the George Thomas House, the 2,368-square-foot home was originally built between 1735 and 1739 and has undergone significant restoration efforts since then.

In fact, the property was in fairly rough shape in 1995 when the town banded together to save it.

“Among other problems, it leaned and there was concern for the safety of any occupants,” says listing agent Sue Moore. “The town was close to condemning it when some of the town fathers decided to save it by investing some of their own money and getting help from a state historic agency.”

Because of their efforts, the home was not only saved—it was also greatly improved. Updates included stabilizing the structure and installing a septic system.

The home has had a series of stewards who have continued to improve it.

“The couple who bought it in 2000 hired a well-reputed architect who was very good with historic homes, and as a result, received the 2002 Preservation Merit Award for residential restoration and rehabilitation from Preserve Rhode Island,” Moore says.

More recent owners installed central heating and air and updated the bathroom plumbing.

“The current owners have done the most, and the property is extraordinary,” Moore says.

The three-bedroom home retains much of its historic appeal with two staircases, four brick fireplaces, and wide-board pine floors throughout the interior. It also comes with magnificently manicured gardens, and of course—views.

“The outside has a porch on the second floor with water views, and the ground level has a lovely patio,” Moore says. “The gardens also come with a sitting area at the water’s edge.”