Historic Connecticut Stone Sawmill Estate With Private Waterfall Lists for $1.75 Million

A former 19th-century sawmill in Branford, Connecticut, has been transformed into a distinctive waterfront residence surrounded by woodlands, stone terraces, and flowing water. The property at 55–69 Sawmill Road, in the Stony Creek area, combines an unusual architectural history with a private waterfall, tidal creek frontage, and more than two acres of land.

Listed for $1,750,000, the estate includes a main residence built in 1939, incorporating the original stone mill structure, along with a separate parcel across the lane. The main house is described as offering three to four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and more than 3,000 square feet according to the full Zillow description.

The property’s combination of historic stone construction, waterfront surroundings, and additional buildings makes it different from a typical shoreline home.

From a 19th-Century Sawmill to a Private Residence

The property’s history begins with a working sawmill built during the 19th century. During the 1930s, the structure was converted into a private residence while retaining the original stone mill construction.

The main residence is identified as having been built in 1939. Its stone exterior and surrounding natural landscape preserve much of the character associated with its earlier use.

Rather than replacing the original structure with a conventional house, the conversion incorporated the existing mill building into a residential design. This gives the property an architectural history that is closely connected to the development of the Stony Creek area.

The estate reportedly occupies approximately 2.02 acres, although the full listing refers to the combined property as having more than two acres.

A Private Waterfall and Tidal Creek

One of the property’s most distinctive features is its private waterfall. The listing describes stone patios and terraces positioned near the flowing water, creating outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy the sound and views of the waterfall.

The estate also borders a tidal creek, providing a waterfront setting that connects the grounds to the surrounding coastal landscape.

Across from the waterfall is a supply pond covered with water lilies. The listing mentions the possibility of taking a canoe out on the pond, offering another way to enjoy the property’s water features.

A private pier and dock are also included, although buyers should confirm the exact waterfront rights, permitted uses, and any applicable tidal or shoreline regulations.

Historic Interior With Four Original Fireplaces

Inside the main residence, the listing highlights four original fireplaces. These are located throughout the home, including the great room, den, and flexible lower-level spaces.

The main living area includes an eat-in kitchen, a spacious great room, and a dining area with views of the surrounding woods and water. A four-season porch provides another place to enjoy the landscape throughout the year.

The property also features stone patios and outdoor terraces that connect the interior living areas to the surrounding grounds.

The original fireplaces are an important part of the home’s historic character. Their current operating condition, inspection history, and maintenance requirements should be confirmed before purchase.

Three to Four Bedrooms and Flexible Living Space

The listing describes the main home as having three to four bedrooms and three full bathrooms.

The primary suite is located on the main level and includes a private full bathroom. The main floor also contains two additional bedrooms, according to the listing description.

On the ground floor, there are two flexible rooms, each with a fireplace. One is suggested as a possible additional bedroom, while either space could potentially serve as an office or another type of living area, depending on the buyer’s needs and applicable requirements.

Additional features include a dedicated wine storage area, a large walk-in closet, and a full bathroom on the ground floor.

The difference between three and four bedrooms appears to depend on how the flexible spaces are used. Buyers should confirm the official bedroom count, room dimensions, and any applicable requirements for bedroom designation.

A Separate Cottage and Detached Garage

Across the lane, the property includes a second parcel with a detached two-car garage and a separate two-room building.

The listing suggests that this smaller building could serve as a guest cottage, artist studio, or office. However, its approved use, utilities, condition, and legal classification should be verified before assuming it can function as independent guest accommodation.

The garage is described as providing two additional parking spaces. Combined with the main property’s parking, the listing reports a total of six spaces.

This second parcel adds another dimension to the estate, providing space separate from the main residence.

Landscaped Grounds and Outdoor Features

The grounds include professionally landscaped areas, garden paths, historic stone walls, patios, and terraces.

The combination of wooded surroundings, tidal creek frontage, waterfall, and water-lily pond gives the property several distinct outdoor features. The setting is intended to feel connected to the natural landscape rather than like a conventional suburban yard.

The listing also mentions nearby Branford Land Trust properties and hiking trails, offering access to additional outdoor areas.

The location is described as being minutes from Stony Creek Village, the Thimble Islands, and Guilford’s historic green, with shoreline attractions, marinas, restaurants, and shops nearby.

Updates and Property Details

The full listing reports that new central air conditioning was installed in 2025. This is a notable update for a historic property, although buyers should request information about the equipment, installation, and any remaining heating or cooling systems.

The listing also describes the main house as having more than 3,000 square feet, while the supplied property summary gives a figure of over 2,300 square feet. This is an important discrepancy to clarify through the official property records and listing agent.

Other details worth confirming include the exact combined acreage across both parcels, the status of the pier and dock, and the permitted use of the separate two-room building.

A $1.75 Million Connecticut Waterfront Estate

Listed at $1,750,000, the property brings together a former industrial building, historic stone construction, a private waterfall, tidal creek frontage, and a separate parcel with a garage and additional building.

Its history as a 19th-century sawmill gives it a different story from many traditional Connecticut waterfront homes. The four original fireplaces, stone patios, water views, and landscaped grounds add to the property’s distinctive character.

At the same time, buyers should carefully review the differences in reported square footage, confirm the bedroom count, and investigate the condition and permitted uses of the additional buildings and waterfront features.

For anyone interested in historic architecture and a property closely connected to its natural surroundings, 55–69 Sawmill Road represents an unusual example of a former industrial structure adapted into a private residence on the Connecticut shoreline.

If you’re interested in learning more about this property, please contact the listing agent through the Zillow link provided below the original property photos.

Zillow Link