A Old Cobblers Compound in Chester

A quintessential early-American farmhouse with centuries of storybook charm. 500 East River Road in Chester is a circa 1820 farmhouse set on about 13.77 acres of deeply forested hillside landscape, just a short drive from regional hubs. 

From the road, the home’s traditional lines and historic presence hint at its rich past—it was once home to The Ideal Shoe Company of Danvers—yet the interior unfolds as a generous yet adaptable space where original elements like wide hardwood floors and beautiful exposed beams accentuate every space. Spanning approximately 2,171 square feet, the layout currently includes four bedrooms and two full baths, along with living and gathering spaces that take advantage of natural light through classic windows and a three-season porch. 

The property’s expansive acreage delivers a feeling of true separation from the everyday, with tree-lined paths, open fields, and a gazebo inviting long walks, morning coffee al fresco, or quiet evenings by the water. A detached barn and multiple outbuildings expand functional possibilities—whether for storage, workshop use, or creative transformation—while conservation land and hundreds of surrounding acres promise a sense of wilderness on your doorstep. 

500 East River Road, Chester is listed for $460,000, offered by Alexis Noyes and Chrissy Neithercott at Brick & Mortar Realty.