A Timeless Treasure: The Historic Beauty and Luxury of Mulberry Hill

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of Williamson County lies a property that is more than just a home—it’s a story waiting to be lived. Mulberry Hill, home to the exquisitely restored Ellis House and the historically significant Sanders Log Cabin, is a rare and remarkable blend of early 1800s charm and modern-day luxury.

This property stands as a testament to what’s possible when preservation and innovation are guided by passion and expertise. With thoughtful upgrades and a deep respect for its original form, Mulberry Hill is truly one of Middle Tennessee’s most special residences.

A Restoration Rooted in Reverence

When preservationist Debbie Laster took on the Ellis House, her goal was simple yet profound: preserve as much of the original structure and purpose as possible. That mission took a fascinating turn during demolition, when hand-hewn beams dating back to circa 1830 were discovered above the kitchen ceiling. That moment led to a pivotal design decision: the wall between the kitchen and dining area was removed, and the ceiling was raised to an impressive 12 feet—allowing those historic beams to become a defining architectural element of the new kitchen space.

A Kitchen That Honors the Past While Serving the Present

The kitchen at Ellis House is nothing short of spectacular—both a tribute to the past and a fully functional, state-of-the-art culinary space. The centerpiece is a massive island constructed from salvaged 2-inch poplar boards from the original ceiling. It features:

• A triple copper sink with ornate copper faucets

• Sharp microwave warming drawer

• Miele dishwasher with on-demand water heater

• Double garbage pull-out and disposal

No detail was spared in the cabinetry either. Custom-built to resemble period furniture, the cabinets are crafted from 50% ca. 1800 reclaimed poplar and new solid poplar. Finished with milk paint, Benjamin Moore color, and three coats of tung oil, they’re adorned with antique bronze handles and leaded glass doors from ca. 1890. The countertops are 2-inch Cobra soapstone, and the backsplash is slate with a copper pot filler completing the gourmet vision.

Appliance choices match the level of craftsmanship: a Wolf 60-inch dual fuel range with grill and griddle, a commercial-grade lighted vent hood with roof-mounted blower, and a 42-inch Sub-Zero side-by-side refrigerator camouflaged behind cabinet panels.

Even the Miele stainless washer and dryer have been seamlessly integrated into the kitchen, hidden beneath the counters with antique ca. 1890 bronze knobs and period bin pulls.

Living History Throughout the Home

Step beyond the kitchen and the historic charm continues. The living room features a beautiful ca. 1830 mantle over the original fireplace and majestic arched doors from the same period. A stunning upstairs balcony serves as a study or library, complete with over 100 hand-turned spindles from the 1860s and overlooking the grand living space below.

From high ceilings to natural light, every inch of the Ellis House has been restored with livability in mind, while retaining the integrity of its past. Electrical systems have been fully upgraded with 12-gauge wiring, and a brand-new buried service line runs from the street to the house.

The Sanders Log Cabin: A Story Within a Story

Beyond the main home lies the Sanders Log Cabin, a beautifully restored structure with a past as compelling as the Ellis House itself. Local historians believe it may have served as the original meeting place for Mill Creek Baptist Church in 1804. In the 1830s, the Sanders family lived here—most notably Nancy Sanders, who married a Union soldier named Stan after the Civil War. Their North-South marriage is honored throughout the cabin’s restoration: Northern White Pine floors upstairs and Southern Poplar on the main level.

The cabin was disassembled log-by-log, carefully numbered, moved, and rebuilt on the Mulberry Hill property. Modern comforts were added—new HVAC, updated subflooring, cable, new toilet fixtures, and a triple picture window overlooking the peaceful countryside. The screened porch was replaced with Pella sliding glass doors and tile flooring, creating a serene space perfect for reading, writing, painting, or just being still.

This cabin is more than just a structure—it’s a sanctuary.

A Home That Lives and Breathes History

Mulberry Hill is more than a place to live—it’s a place to be. Whether you're drawn to the detailed craftsmanship, the historical roots, or the artistic spirit embedded in every corner of the home and cabin, this is a property that speaks to the soul.

You don’t just move into Mulberry Hill—you become part of its story.

Interested in learning more about Mulberry Hill or scheduling a private showing?
Contact the team at Gray Fox Realty. We’d love to introduce you to this unforgettable property.

📍 Williamson County, TN
📞  615-656-8181 | grayfoxrealty.com | @grayfoxrealty

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