Affectionately known as “The Cedar Grove Schoolhouse” by locals and historians alike, 1288 Cedar Grove Rd presents a rare and storied offering — available for the first time in over 40 years. With only four owners since its conversion, this is not simply a home, but a unique opportunity to become the next steward of a cherished piece of local history.
Constructed in 1875 as Marple Public School No. 3, it served the community for nearly half a century, with educational roots on this site dating back to 1837. In 1938, architect Joseph Miller Blew Jr. and his wife undertook a thoughtful and transformative conversion, reimagining the structure into a private residence while preserving its architectural integrity. They removed the original bell tower, front door, and porch, introduced a slate roof, and constructed the now-iconic stone chimney and fireplace. Inside, they installed oak hardwood floors, custom built-in cabinetry, curved plaster walls, preserved the impressive original schoolhouse windows, and reconfigured the interior into a home with a living room, dining room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, and bathroom. Structural integrity was reinforced with steel beams.
Subsequent owners continued the home’s thoughtful evolution with a two-story rear addition introducing a family room, laundry, primary bedroom, and vestibule.
The current owners have served as dedicated stewards, approaching the home with both respect and vision. They installed a new slate roof, wiring, plumbing, cleared and curated the landscape. Inside, a full kitchen renovation exposed original rafters and the historic schoolhouse window. Recent improvements include two custom bathrooms, a spacious deck, cedar-lined closets, expanded parking, and many other enhancements - all executed with respect for the home’s legacy.
The entry vestibule opens into the dramatic main living space, where soaring ceilings, exposed beams, and oversized windows create exceptional light and volume. The fireplace anchors the room, complemented by hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and curved plaster walls that reflect timeless craftsmanship.
The kitchen blends charm and function with Corian countertops, a custom baker’s station, and original schoolhouse window. The adjoining dining room offers an inviting space for gatherings, while the family room provides a relaxed retreat with direct access to the deck and yard. A full luxury bathroom with radiant heated floors and a laundry room complete the first floor.
Upstairs, a custom staircase with elegant beveled cutout detailed risers. The primary bedroom offers a peaceful retreat with a spacious walk-in closet and views of the surrounding landscape. The hall bathroom is a true showpiece, featuring an exposed original stone wall within the shower, leathered quartzite countertops, deep custom oak cabinetry, porcelain sink, and radiant heated tile floors - a refined balance of historic character and modern luxury.
The second bedroom features custom built-ins and ample storage, while the third showcases an exposed stone chimney, architectural rafters, cedar lined closets and dormer storage.
A two-car attached garage with direct basement access adds convenience, while the basement provides ample storage.
Outside, the terraced lot features mature trees, stone walls, and curated landscaping. The former outhouse, now a garden shed, remains a charming nod to the home’s origins.
Ideally located just minutes from downtown Media and Newtown Square, within the highly regarded Marple Newtown School District, take a class at DCCC or enjoy the outdoors at Ridley Creek State Park, Tyler Arboretum, or Rose Tree Park. This home offers easy access to dining, shopping, recreation, and major commuter routes - all while maintaining a quiet, tucked-away setting.
This is more than a home - it is a living piece of history, thoughtfully preserved and ready for its next chapter.
