High atop the entrance tower at Sabine Farm, a printer-at-work weather vane suggests the publishing career of Henry Johnson Fisher. Vice president of the Crowell Publishing Company when he built this Round Hill estate, Fisher later became chairman of the McCall Corporation––and his passion for historical literature became an integral theme to his home.

The property takes its name from the original Sabine Farm near Tivoli in Italy. In his writings, the Roman poet Horace referred to this farm often, alluding to the sweetness of rural life. In 1910, Fisher and his wife sited their residence facing west, at the intersection of two old stone walls that were used as the foundation of the home. Stone-framed windows of leaded glass, handsome balustrades, English oak panelling, newel posts topped by carved oak squirrels, finely carved pilasters, and deep moldings were added, creating a noble backdrop for country living. In a coveted location off of Round Hill Road, a grand allée of trees leads to the front entrance, which is bordered by lawns, meadows, walled gardens, a reflecting pool, and a pergola.

The home itself is an exercise in classical beauty. The three-story octagonal stair tower is framed by a limestone arch, while the panelled front-to-back great hall has a plaster tracery ceiling, leaded-glass doors, and a windowng to the graceful verandah. Throughout, the orientation is always outward––from glorious garden vistas in the living room to the sun-filled country kitchen, which to the west-facing verandah and a wonderful outdoor living room. No mention of Sabine Farm is complete without reference to the bookcase-lined library, a retreat worthy of Horace himself. Warmed by a fireplace of authentic Caen stone and enjoying southerly garden views, this room features a remarkable collection of painted panels inspired by Sir Thomas Malory’s Le Morte d’Arthur and executed by William A. Mackay in a Pre-Raphaelite style. Integrated above bookshelves and linenfold cabinets, these nine extraordinary panels underscore Henry Johnson Fisher’s love of great literature.

The marvelous staircase framed by carved balusters leads to a broad second-floor hallway and eight bedrooms, five of which have fireplaces. The master bedroom features a large bay window facing south, a glass door to a sleeping porch, and one of five bathrooms on this floor. A staff apartment, a third-floor tower room, various multipurpose rooms, and an elevator complete this magnificent offering.

Since its completion in 1910, Sabine Farm has remained in the Fisher family. The estate adjoins a separate 10-acre parcel also available for purchase. Offered at $19,000,000.