Narragansett’s iconic Reading Room, a storied former social club that initially captured the attention of the luxury real estate market over the summer with an ambitious $10.95 million price tag, has undergone a notable price adjustment. The historic waterfront property, steeped in Gilded Age lore and architectural significance, has recently received a $1.2 million price reduction, bringing its current list price down to $9.75 million.
Now available for $9.75 million, the expansive five-bedroom, waterfront residence still commands an enviable position next to The Towers, the majestic and enduring final remnant of the 1880s Narragansett Pier Casino. Having weathered generations of coastal storms and changing architectural eras, the property stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring appeal of Rhode Island’s historic coastline. Spanning 5,099 square feet of living space, the dwelling—complete with a detached three-car garage—is currently being offered to the open market for the first time in more than half a century, marking a rare and momentous occasion for regional real estate watchers and historic preservationists alike.
"It’s one of the few Italian Victorians left in our area with a tower room," said listing agent John Hodnett of Hopewell Real Estate, highlighting the architectural pedigree of the residence. "What makes this property so unique is that it is located in a village setting, but it sits on three-quarters of an acre so there is a lot of space. It’s like a sanctuary in the middle of a village."
The structure’s origins date back to 1880, built during a period when Narragansett Pier was rapidly emerging as a premier summer playground for America’s elite. Originally constructed as an exclusive social club, the building served as a quiet sanctuary where prominent gentlemen of the era—including Jerome Bonaparte, a relative of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte—would reportedly gather to socialize, read newspapers, and smoke cigars. Over the years, as the surrounding landscape evolved and the Narragansett Pier Casino was developed, the structure was physically relocated to its current site to become an integrated part of the grand complex. Today, its positioning offers modern convenience alongside historic grandeur, sitting merely minutes away from the vibrant local town beach, cozy cafes, and popular local restaurants.
Officially recognized for its architectural and cultural importance, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Furthermore, its meticulous upkeep and historical integrity have been formally recognized with prestigious historic preservation awards from both Preserve Rhode Island and the Rhody Awards, underscoring the care that has been invested in protecting its unique character through the decades.
"I think the next buyer will be someone who wants to live in a historic property with lots of space, yet be in the middle of everything on a super big lot," notes Hodnett, describing the ideal custodian for the estate. "They will also be someone who appreciates a home with lots of historic charm and detail, but without the associated headaches that often come with them. All of the heavy lifting has been done. You can just customize the home to your needs."
Perched gracefully along the coastline, the residence overlooks the sweeping expanse of Narragansett Bay and the historic seawall, providing breathtaking, panoramic waterfront views from nearly every vantage point within the home. "It was totally restored in 2010 and offers amazing views," Hodnett said, emphasizing that the extensive rehabilitation project successfully bridged the gap between 19th-century craftsmanship and 21st-century comfort and structural integrity.
Throughout the sprawling interior, original historic highlights remain remarkably intact, bearing witness to the fine artisans who contributed to its creation. These defining features include beautifully restored hardwood floors, classic bay windows, a dramatic and grand original staircase, intricate custom millwork, delicate stained glass windows, soaring high ceilings, period-appropriate chandeliers, and three working fireplaces that anchor the main living areas with warmth and historic authenticity.
While grand estates of this caliber are frequently purchased as seasonal retreats, Hodnett points out that the Reading Room is fully equipped for year-round living. "A lot of homes in a higher price point like this one are secondary residences, but there is nothing that would prevent it from being a primary," he said.
The outdoor and transitional living spaces further enhance the home’s appeal for daily coastal living. A sprawling covered front porch offers an idyllic spot to enjoy a quiet morning coffee while soaking in the salt air and stunning maritime scenery, while multiple sunrooms provide cozy, sunlit environments designed to take in the dramatic water views through every changing season.
Additionally, practical modern upgrades have been seamlessly integrated into the historic envelope to ensure peace of mind during New England’s notoriously unpredictable weather seasons. "It also has a whole-home generator, so you don’t have to sweat the storms," Hodnett added.
