The John C. Kesterson House – A Grand Italianate Historic Home for Sale
Own a Distinguished Piece of Fairbury History
We proudly present a rare opportunity to own a significant Italianate historic home for sale in Fairbury, Nebraska, known as the John C. Kesterson House. Located at 907 4th Street, Fairbury, NE 68352, this commanding two-story residence was originally built in 1879, with a thoughtfully added north wing in 1885, reflecting the prosperity and vision of one of Fairbury’s most prominent early businessmen.
Offered at $200,000, this property represents an exceptional chance to acquire a true architectural landmark with enduring character, generous space, and remarkable restoration potential.
A Home Named for a Prominent Nebraska Pioneer
The home is named after John C. Kesterson, a successful horse breeder, freighter, and influential early businessman whose contributions helped shape the development of Fairbury. Residences of this stature were built not only as homes but as statements of success, permanence, and craftsmanship.
We recognize this property as more than real estate—it is a tangible connection to Nebraska’s late 19th-century heritage, offering buyers the opportunity to preserve and personalize a meaningful chapter of local history.
Classic Italianate Architecture with Enduring Presence
The Italianate architectural style is celebrated for its balanced proportions, decorative detailing, and dignified appearance, all of which are evident in this stately home. From its vertical emphasis to its classic massing, the exterior reflects the elegance and ambition of the era in which it was built.
The north wing addition, completed in 1885, seamlessly expands the living space while maintaining architectural harmony, adding to the home’s grandeur and functional versatility.
A Spacious and Flexible Interior Layout
Inside, we discover a home that has been lived in and cared for through generations, retaining its original charm while offering the space needed for modern living. The residence features 3,174 square feet of interior space, thoughtfully distributed across two full stories.
The main floor offers generous room sizes, ideal for living, dining, entertaining, and everyday comfort. Upstairs, we find four or more bedrooms, allowing for flexible use as sleeping quarters, home offices, guest rooms, or creative spaces.
Original Details and “Great Bones” Throughout
One of the most compelling qualities of the John C. Kesterson House is its strong structural integrity and preserved historical details. We see the kind of craftsmanship and materials that defined late 19th-century construction—elements that cannot be replicated today.
This home offers an exceptional foundation for thoughtful updates, allowing new owners to restore, enhance, and personalize while honoring the original character that makes the property so special.
Four Bedrooms and Two Full Bathrooms
The home includes four bedrooms with the potential for additional rooms depending on configuration and future vision. With two full bathrooms, the layout supports family living, guests, or multi-purpose use with ease.
Large bedrooms, tall ceilings, and classic proportions create comfortable spaces that adapt well to modern needs while preserving historic ambiance.
Half-Acre Corner Lot with Outdoor Features
Set on a 0.52-acre corner lot, the property offers outdoor space that is both functional and private. The fenced yard provides a secure area for pets, children, or gardening, while the lot’s size allows for landscaping, outdoor seating, or future enhancements.
The corner setting adds presence and curb appeal, reinforcing the home’s stature within the neighborhood.
Detached Garage and Additional Outbuilding
Adding further value and utility, the property includes a two-stall detached garage, offering protected parking and storage. An additional outbuilding expands possibilities for workshops, hobbies, storage, or creative use.
These structures complement the main residence and enhance the overall usability of the property, particularly for buyers seeking space beyond the home itself.
A Rare Opportunity to Restore and Personalize
Homes of this size, age, and architectural significance rarely come to market, especially at an accessible price point. This residence is ready for a new steward—someone who appreciates history and envisions breathing new life into a classic home.
We see tremendous potential for restoration projects, preservation-focused renovations, or tasteful modernization, all while maintaining the integrity of a true Italianate landmark.
Ideal for History Lovers, Restoration Enthusiasts, and Visionary Buyers
This home is perfectly suited for buyers who value:
Historic architecture and storytelling
Large homes with flexible layouts
Outdoor space within town limits
The opportunity to make a historic property their own
Whether as a primary residence, a long-term restoration project, or a legacy home to be enjoyed for generations, this property offers extraordinary promise.
Property Overview
Price: $200,000
Address: 907 4th St, Fairbury, NE 68352
Bedrooms: 4+
Bathrooms: 2
Living Space: 3,174 sq ft
Year Built: 1879 (North Wing Added 1885)
Lot Size: 0.52 Acres
Style: Italianate Historic Home
Listing Information
From Zillow
Listed by:
Jayne Kracke – 402-806-0555
Kracke RE / Keller Williams
Lorena McCurdy – 402-601-1872
Keller Williams Lincoln
Source: GPRMLS
MLS#: 22534111
A Grand Home Waiting for Its Next Chapter
We recognize the John C. Kesterson House as a rare and meaningful offering—one that combines history, scale, and opportunity in a way few properties can. These grand homes do not appear often, and when they do, they invite buyers to become caretakers of something truly special.
This home is ready for its next chapter. With vision, care, and creativity, it can once again shine as one of Fairbury’s most admired residences.
