A mansion modeled as brick replica of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello that was built to be a source of civic pride for Somers, will sell to the highest bidder next month through NYC-based Concierge Auctions. Monticello-Somers in Somers, CT is currently owned by S. Prestley Blake, co-founder of popular restaurant chain Friendly’s and it will sell without reserve on May 31 in cooperation with Sherri Milkie of William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.
Conceived of by Blake a few years back upon approaching his 100th birthday, he held his centennial birthday celebration in the newly constructed residence in 2014. Blake worked with general contractor Raymond Laplante of Laplante Construction Inc. to precisely replicate the brick neoclassical-style exterior of Monticello, utilizing all of the same materials Jefferson used to create his plantation home.
Comprised of nearly 10,000 square feet of living space, the residence offers five bedrooms, five full and four half baths upon 9.27 acres in the quaint Connecticut town bordering Massachusetts.
Having invested $8 million in its construction, the property features the best of everything including seven fireplaces, a 3-car attached garage with a sun deck above and 12 miles of horse trails next to the property that can never be developed. Further, the property is accessible by helicopter in three locations.
Previously offered for $4.9 million, it will sell to the highest bidder regardless of price.