Bedminster Twp., NJ

About This Property

Set on a rise affording endless views to pastures and hills, Bindon Farm recalls the storied history of the Somerset Hills. Sited on 80 acres, the land was purchased by Rutherford Stuyvesant Pierrepont and his wife Nathalie in 1914. The Pierreponts chose the Native American word for rippling brook ― Peapacton for the title of their farm.
New York Architect Montague Flagg was enlisted to draw up plans for a country house. Flagg’s design, a long and irregular stucco structure with slate roof and unpretentious main entrance, was inspired by French country homes.

Intended from the outset to be a working farm, Peapacton evolved to include a handsome courtyard stable echoing the architecture of the main residence and including 7 stalls, 3 apartments and various support areas. Nearby were erected the 2-story hay barn, 8 paddocks and run-in sheds. Added also was a tennis court and a high-ceilinged pool house built into the hillside to capture the views across the valley. The pool was designed to overflow, suggesting a natural spring. Beautifully maintained to this day, each structure enjoys an autonomous setting that preserves its specific purpose.

Peapacton was owned by the Pierrepont family until 1958 when it was sold to the current owner and renamed Bindon Farm. This owner’s thoughtful renovations have rendered spacious rooms advantaged by the home’s Southern orientation. Expansive windows were added to frame the farm’s sweeping views. The large foyer flows to the gallery hall hosting library, living and dining rooms, all with wood-burning fireplaces, as well as tea and bar room. Two islands supplement the kitchen’s generous cabinetry and pantries while French doors open from the window-walled breakfast area to the bluestone patio and rear lawns. Upstairs 4 large en suite bedrooms are joined by the master suite with sitting room and two baths. First and second floor apartments as well as a full basement offer multiple options and functionality.

This superb property is located in Bedminster, a Somerset Hills community favored by leaders of commerce who at the turn of the 20th century purchased great swaths of farmland and brought their vision for a manner of country living. Gentlemen farms, vast pastures with grazing horses and miles of bridle paths became the fabric of the communities they chose.