1356 Rutledge PIKE Blaine, TN 37709

Welcome to Shield's Station! With original construction dating back to the late 1700s, this historic property has a wealth of possibilities and is a rare gem. Always occupied and maintained, over its life the home has undergone several additions and renovations and served at various points in history as a post office, stagecoach stop, general store, hospital, tavern, and inn with many famous guests including 3 Presidents (Jackson, Johnson, & Polk). Placed on the National Historic Register in 1974, but this does NOT mean the property can't be renovated, altered, etc. as its new owner sees fit. Upon entering this home you will be surprised by the spacious rooms and even tall ceilings in some areas. Current owners have owned this property since 1986. It is in need of cosmetic updating, but the original character, with much original trim work, built-ins, brick hearths, walkways, and even a hidden staircase remain. This old house is very solid! Huge original beams and joists, some over 200 years old, are still intact and in great shape. Plumbing and electric are modern. The main living areas of this home include 5 sitting/dining/parlor rooms on the main level including the very large "ballroom", which would make a great main level bedroom. The main kitchen, a full bathroom, and large enclosed porch with full sized laundry facilities are also on this main floor. Take any of the main home's 3 staircases upstairs to find three more bedrooms, all generous in size, another large full bathroom, and great walk-in closet. From the enclosed back porch, go up stair case #4 and discover the current caretaker's quarters, complete with a bedroom, large living room, large eat-in kitchen, and the home's 3rd full bathroom. While this separate apartment is comfortable and very livable, it is another renovation opportunity that could be an in-law suite, kid's quarters, income producing rental, or be opened back to and included in the rest of the house. Home has public water and a 5 bedroom septic system. Recent improvements include a new roof in 2017, new insulation throughout, and new back deck (see photos). Carriage house (garage) with attached chicken coop, firewood crib, and potting/storage shed are included. 1.5 acre lot is just the right size to give privacy and but still be easy to care for. Three historic cabins behind this home were once also a part of the property and add charm and beauty to living here. The possibilities here at Shield's Station really are abundant, with recent zoning change to allow for short term rental, the obvious potential as a great true bed and breakfast, retail applications like an antique or gift store, office opportunities for legal, medical, or other professionals, or any a combination thereof. For those who can work remote, there is ample internet speed and this would be a great property to live and work in all or just part of the home so as to generate side rental income. This property is 20 miles from downtown Knoxville and the University of Tennessee. Small town of Blaine provides access to grocery, pharmacy, general store, medical offices, veterinarian, restaurants, post office less than a mile away. Interstate access is about 10 miles down the road. East Tennessee is a great place to live and invest, with four mild seasons, beautiful scenery, exciting recreation with National Park, mountains, lakes, hiking, biking, and driving trails all nearby, and low, low taxes here! Please read documents attached to learn more history of this unique property. NOTE: This is an old home and while everything works, it will be sold As-Is. Buyers with previous old home experience will not be disappointed. Owning a home of this age is not for everyone. Everything is not perfectly level, square, built to modern codes, etc. We are ready and excited to share this beautiful property and rare opportunity to truly own a slice of history with qualified buyers. Call today for an exclusive showing!