A Rhode Island mansion that predates the Declaration of Independence by 53 years is on the market for $3 million. See inside.

• A colonial home in Potowomut, Rhode Island, known as The Grange, was built in 1723.
• The home has hosted notable guests such as Benjamin Franklin’s sister and the Marquis de Lafayette.
• The 10.9-acre riverfront property features a tennis court and a guest cottage.

In the 18th century, a member of the Greene family built The Grange.

The Grange is in a sought-after location in Central Rhode Island.

The Marquis de Lafayette is also believed to have visited the home circa 1780, giving it the name that has stuck to this day.

Ambrose Burnside, a Union Civil War general who would serve as the governor of Rhode Island and later a US senator, was at The Grange when he was informed that General Sherman had taken control of Atlanta.

Historically, the Grange has been used as a space to entertain.

In 1867, the home hosted a dinner party for 103 guests, including generals, governors, and other important people, according to the home’s website.

Its current owners said the home has maintained its entertainment value, with a wraparound porch and patio providing ample outdoor space, with a total area of nearly 1,400 square feet.

In addition to original features, the house contains some hidden gems.

Besides the home’s seven original fireplaces, 18th-century millwork can be found inside, and the home’s stone foundation is original.

Even after purchasing the home, Meersman and deTonnancourt continued to learn the stories behind some of its features. Decorative tiles surrounding the fireplace that were installed by Waterman turned out to be made by the notable Scottish artist and architect John Moyr Smith.

While The Grange has modern features and amenities, its owners have aimed to keep the historic charm.

Meersman and deTonnancourt have made further renovations to the property since taking ownership in 2020, but they said their appreciation for its history has always been a factor in their decision-making.

“Everything we’ve chosen, from wallpaper to paint colors, has been done to keep the historic feel but with modern features,” Meersman said.

The home could suit multiple buyers, deTonnancourt said.

He cited the amenities and river access, as well as the property’s central location in Rhode Island, as factors that make The Grange an “excellent family home.” For these reasons, deTonnancourt said The Grange could serve as a legacy home that can be passed down through generations.

For those looking to renovate, he noted that the National Register of Historic Places designation doesn’t put restrictions on improvements to the property, meaning buyers can make changes as they wish.

The property could also suit hobbyists such as auto enthusiasts. George Waterman, a descendant of Rufus Waterman, began his car collection on the property, per The Grange’s website.

Meersman and deTonnancourt said the ideal buyer would have an appreciation for history. They’ve maintained a close relationship with the owners of The Forge across the street, which they hope would continue under the future owners.