''Wessington is one of the most magnificent antebellum residences in North Carolina'' writes Thomas Butchko, author of EDENTON An Architectural Portrait. Built in 1850, this home is three stories plus a fully renovated basement. Distinctive exterior features include a full-length double-tier portico, 9' French doors opening to ornate iron balconies, and four massive chimneys and a roof top ''widows walk''. The brick exterior walls are 18'' thick and the foundation is solid slabs of granite. The interior is equally impressive with three 12'x50' center halls, 15' ceilings on the first floor, original plaster ceiling moldings and chandeliers, 10' four panel doors, marble mantels and 15 fireplaces. Wessington has been renovated with up to date amenities and custom energy efficient utilities. What was once a utilitarian English basement is now a bedroom with full bath, recreation room with kitchenette, media room, and large laundry...all with fireplaces. This level offers the option of independent living, and the ground level entry with an elevator servicing three floors makes the home handicapped accessible. The main level features a formal parlor, dining room, small parlor, library and the kitchen. Complete with fireplace and butler's pantry, the kitchen complements the warm sophistication of the home yet easily accommodates the needs for entertaining on a grand scale. Upstairs, there is primary suite with a large dressing room and bath. There are two other bedrooms with private baths and an office. The third floor is accessed by the same impressive stairway, has the same wide center hall and 4 multipurpose rooms. The grounds include the old cistern and the old smokehouse houses the impressive utility systems including the geothermal HVAC, elevator hydraulics and other utilities. Wessington is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This landmark home is located in the heart of the Historic District with views of Edenton Bay.