The Highgate Manor is a massive Georgian-style estate in Highgate, VT, that is rumored to have once served as a stopping point for the Underground Railroad.

The sprawling, 8,938-square-foot home is now listed for $705,000. It still has a tunnel below that was designed to lead up to the nearby Missisquoi River.

Over the years, the estate has served as a dance hall, bed-and-breakfast, restaurant and bar, school, wedding venue, and, most recently, a single-family residence.

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A long history

The home was built in 1818 by Capt. Steve Keyes. In 1870, it was sold to a doctor, who ran his medical practice from the property.

Another owner is said to have transformed the property into a vacation retreat, with guest cottages where musicians would perform.

In 1957, a 2,500-square-foot ballroom was added. The space features a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, a custom bar, stage, updated bathrooms, and even a commercial kitchen.

“The home has such an incredible history,” says listing agent Stacie M. Callan, of Century 21 MRC. “Al Capone is said to have been here. It was his stopping point when he was smuggling alcohol across the border to Canada during Prohibition.”

Original elements

From pumpkin pine flooring to a staircase and custom built-ins, the seven-bedroom estate still features many period details.

“From a historical perspective, some of the most impressive details include 9-foot and 10-foot ceilings throughout, chestnut woodwork, the ballroom, and the tunnel,” Callan says.

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The 27-room house features a living room and a parlor with original marble fireplaces. A nearby library has a separate entrance and could be used as a home office.

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The impressive main kitchen was recently remodeled and now boasts custom cabinetry, soapstone counters, a built-in wine rack, a commercial stove, a walk-in pantry with a French door, and a large island, according to the listing.

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There’s also a veranda and three-season room to take in views of the 5.7-acre property.

Callan has her own ideas for how the home might be used in the future, including as a charming B&B once again.

“I hope someone turns it back into an event space or wedding venue,” she says. “People are just obsessed with this property.”

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