An extraordinary piece of Nantucket’s architectural history has changed hands for $15.25 million, more than tripling its previous sale price in 12 years. The historic Hadwen-Wright House, located at 94 Main Street in Nantucket, Massachusetts, was sold on October 27, 2026. According to Nantucket Current, which first reported the transaction, the property was purchased by a trust represented by John E. Kozlowski. Property records and real estate listings confirm the final sale price. The mansion had previously sold for $4.7 million in October 2014. Known locally as the Hadwen-Wright House, the residence is among the island’s most distinguished examples of Greek Revival architecture. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century, when Nantucket was still closely associated with the prosperous whaling trade. The house was designed by local builder-architect Frederick Brown Coleman and commissioned by wealthy whaling merchant William Hadwen. The Library of Congress documents its original construction in 1845, while historical records place its completion in 1847.
An architectural landmark with a fascinating history
The mansion stands out for its grand exterior, featuring a double portico, four prominent Corinthian columns and an imposing white façade. Its architectural significance is closely tied to the period when wealthy merchants built elaborate residences along Nantucket’s Main Street, reflecting the island’s economic prosperity.The property is also part of a pair of neighbouring Greek Revival houses known as the Two Greeks. According to the Town of Nantucket’s historical account, Hadwen first built the larger house at 96 Main Street for himself and his wife in 1845. The neighbouring 94 Main Street residence was subsequently constructed for his niece, making the two buildings an unusual architectural pair. The former is now known as the Hadwen House and is associated with the Nantucket Historical Association. The Hadwen-Wright House, meanwhile, has retained its identity as a private residence, preserving much of its original character through successive generations.
Restoration reveals an unexpected feature beneath the house
When the current seller acquired the property in 2014 from the estate of longtime owner and preservationist Katherine Lodge, the house needed careful attention. Rather than undertaking a complete modern makeover, the restoration focused on improving essential infrastructure while retaining its historic features.Among the improvements were updated mechanical systems, a redesigned kitchen and extensive work on the basement’s original brick flooring. One particularly painstaking project involved removing and numbering individual bricks before rebuilding the floor with a new subfloor and moisture barrier, allowing the original material to be returned to its previous arrangement.The renovation also uncovered an unusual feature hidden beneath a large slate slab: a deep, brick-lined cistern that still contained water. Rather than removing it, the owners chose to preserve it. A glass-covered opening and internal lighting now allow visitors to look down into the historic structure. The discovery adds another layer of intrigue to a property already known for its architectural details.
Inside the five-bedroom Nantucket mansion
Spread across approximately 6,106 square feet and four levels, the residence combines period craftsmanship with contemporary amenities. It has five bedrooms, several bathrooms, multiple formal and informal sitting areas, fireplaces and a walk-out garage.Many of its original interior elements remain intact, including wide-plank pine floors, elaborate mouldings, a wooden staircase with decorative balustrades and historic fireplaces. A preservation easement also helps protect the property’s architectural character.Two distinctive domes are among its most unusual features. The larger one sits above the primary suite, which occupies what was once a ballroom, while the smaller dome crowns a rounded landing near the staircase. The house also has a belvedere offering views towards Nantucket’s harbour. Outside, the property includes a paved garden area with seating spaces, trees and a vegetable garden.
A quick sale after its multimillion-dollar listing
The mansion was listed for $15.5 million on August 5, 2026, according to Nantucket property records. It subsequently went under agreement the following day and closed for $15.25 million on October 27. Its latest sale highlights the continued appeal of historically significant properties on Nantucket, where architectural preservation and the island’s maritime heritage remain central to its real estate landscape.
