Historic 1876 Limestone Ranch Estate in Kansas With 240 Acres, Spring-Fed Ponds, and a Reclaimed Guest House

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Mathew Abraham, editor of Century Homes America, brings his passion for architectural history to explore the stories behind America’s most iconic homes.

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Wigglesworth Ranch, situated in Dwight, Kansas, is a historic 1876 limestone farmhouse built by Swedish immigrant Andrew W. Nordeen. This century-old home features 4,095 sq. ft. of living space within a fully renovated structure that blends classic charm with modern updates including new appliances and structural enhancements. Set on 240± acres in the scenic Flint Hills, the ranch includes rolling meadows, native tallgrass prairie, spring-fed ponds, and Lairds Creek. Additional amenities include a rustic guest house, outbuildings, and fenced pastures ideal for livestock or recreation. Priced at $1,690,000, this property beautifully combines historic significance with vibrant rural living just 35 miles from Manhattan, KS.

Country Homestead Aerial

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A serene rural setting with a cluster of buildings surrounded by dense green trees that form a natural protective barrier. The main house is white with a roof of muted earth tones, complemented by smaller outbuildings including one with a metal roof. A white gravel driveway winds through the trees, connecting the buildings. Beyond the tree line, expansive open fields stretch to the horizon, dotted with large round hay bales, emphasizing a traditional farming landscape. The late afternoon sunlight bathes the scene in a warm golden glow, enhancing the peaceful countryside ambiance.

House Exterior and Landscape

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A charming historic home sits on a spacious, well-maintained lawn rich with greenery. The house features mixed exterior materials, combining white painted wood siding and honey-colored stonework, adding texture and visual interest. The roof is pitched and shingled in a neutral tone that complements the natural stone. Mature trees and neatly trimmed hedges frame the property, providing shade and natural beauty. The layout suggests a single-story residence with large windows inviting natural light. The landscape is open and gently sloped, offering a tranquil, inviting outdoor environment that harmonizes with the classic American architectural style.

Estate Aerial View

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Surrounded by lush green trees and expansive open lawn, a historic American farmhouse rests centrally within the serene landscape. The main house features a multi-gabled roof with gray shingles and white siding, reflecting classic rural architecture. Nearby outbuildings include a small barn or workshop and a smaller structure likely used for storage or guest quarters. The driveway connects these buildings with a wider gravel path leading away from the property. The combination of dense foliage and open grassy areas creates a private, tranquil setting, with natural sunlight casting long shadows over the gently rolling land.

Historic Home Aerial View

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

The home stands prominently surrounded by mature trees and greenery, suggesting a secluded, peaceful rural setting. The architecture reveals a multi-gabled roofline with modern shingles, contrasting with the timeless, likely stone or stucco exterior walls. Adjacent to the main house are smaller outbuildings, hinting at additional functional spaces like workshops or storage. The lawn and garden areas are well maintained, integrating the house naturally within the landscape. The overall aesthetic blends historic charm with preserved natural surroundings, evoking a sense of heritage and tranquility in a spacious country environment.

Exterior View of Historic Home

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

The historic home is set in a spacious, lush landscape dotted with mature trees casting long shadows in the warm, late afternoon light. The building combines two distinct architectural styles: a stone section with traditional elements and a modern white-painted extension featuring multiple windows and a screened porch on the upper level. The gray shingled roofs of both sections have skylights that bring natural light inside. Neatly trimmed bushes line the home’s foundation, and a stone pathway leads from the home’s side into the expansive lawn, blending old-world charm with contemporary updates surrounded by natural greenery.

Farm Outbuildings

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A set of two metal agricultural outbuildings sit amid expansive rural farmland, with neatly maintained gravel pathways providing access. The foreground structure features a large closed roller door adjacent to two open bays supported by metal posts, one of which houses a small green tractor. The secondary building behind echoes the same metal siding and roof design, creating a cohesive utilitarian group. Surrounding the buildings are dense green trees to one side and wide, open fields of mown grass and hay bales stretching into the horizon. The setting merges practical farm infrastructure with serene countryside aesthetics.

Detached Garage and Yard

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A long, rectangular detached garage with a gray shingled roof and light beige siding sits amidst a sprawling green lawn. Small windows punctuate the garage’s walls, allowing natural light inside. A concrete pathway leads to the garage door, bordered by modest landscaping with patches of greenery and small plants. Surrounding the structure are mature trees casting long shadows across the grass, creating a serene, natural aesthetic. A gravel driveway curves behind the garage leading to a large white outbuilding, adding depth to this peaceful rural setting under the warm, golden hues of the late afternoon sun.

Property Grounds and Pond

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A broad expanse of open land covered in golden-yellow grass stretches towards the horizon, evoking a sense of calm and rural beauty. Nestled within the sprawling field is a small, irregularly-shaped pond with reflective water, bordered by dense clusters of green trees and shrubs. This mix of mature shade trees and younger growth forms a natural oasis around the water’s edge, contrasting with the vivid yellow grasses. The landscape evokes a pastoral charm, ideal for country living or nature appreciation, with a serene atmosphere enhanced by the vast openness and natural vegetation diversity.

Garden Seating Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A serene outdoor space with lush green grass and mature trees providing ample shade. In the center, a wooden bench and a pair of matching chairs are arranged in a conversational grouping. The late afternoon sunlight casts long shadows, enhancing the peaceful ambiance. The backdrop is composed of more trees and natural shrubbery, creating a secluded and private garden feel. The overall color scheme is dominated by various shades of green, complemented by the warm tones of the wooden seating. The scene suggests a tranquil retreat for relaxation or socializing in a historic property setting.

Kitchen Island and Cabinetry

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Warm wood tones dominate this spacious kitchen, featuring extensive cabinetry with deep reddish-brown finishes and classic paneled doors. A large island with a light marble countertop offers ample workspace alongside two wooden bar stools with gray cushions adding comfort. Natural light floods through double windows above the farmhouse-style sink, enhancing the bright and airy atmosphere. The built-in stainless steel oven and glass-front cabinets showcasing neatly arranged dishware blend function with charm. Hardwood flooring continues the warmth, complemented by subtle modern touches like a stainless refrigerator and silver hardware. Sunflowers and cookbooks add a cozy, inviting feel.

Sunroom Seating Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Natural light floods the sunroom through three skylights in the vaulted ceiling and a large wooden-framed window, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere. The sitting space includes a white slipcovered sofa adorned with soft, patterned throw pillows and a woven armchair with a checkered cushion, arranged for casual relaxation. A textured stone wall behind the sofa adds rustic charm, complemented by a large landscape painting and a ceramic table lamp on a small wooden side table. Polished hardwood floors extend throughout, with a raised platform area marked by a single step, where books and decorative items rest on a white paneled ledge. A woven basket on the floor and a pair of sneakers by the step add a lived-in, cozy touch.

Cozy Reading Nook

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Thick, rustic stone walls set a historic and earthy tone for this inviting corner. Two cushy white armchairs, accented with patterned and textured throw pillows, flank a vintage-style wood stove with a black flue rising against the stone backdrop. Stacks of books and a mug rest casually beside and on the chairs, reinforcing the tranquil reading atmosphere. Warm, polished hardwood floors increase the cozy ambiance, while an overhead white ceiling fan adds a modern touch. Firewood is contained neatly in a wicker basket nearby, blending practicality with homey aesthetics. The step-down area enhances spatial depth and charm.

Entryway Details

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

The entryway exudes a warm, rustic charm with a natural wood bench that features vertical slats on the backrest. Draped over the bench’s back is a textured dark brown sheepskin or fur throw, adding coziness and softness to the seating area. A woven straw hat rests on the seat, indicating casual, lived-in comfort. Below the bench, pairs of various worn boots stand ready for use. Above the bench, classic framed bird artwork with golden frames adds a vintage, nature-inspired decorative element. The adjacent space reveals a glimpse of an elegant wooden chair with detailed spindle legs, a tall light-wood dresser, and a richly patterned Persian-style rug, blending rustic and traditional aesthetics within a neutral, welcoming palette.

Laundry Room Details

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

White walls and large natural light create an airy environment. A front-loading washer and dryer in white sit beneath warm-toned wooden cabinets. A wicker laundry basket rests on the dryer surface. The flooring consists of large gray tiles with a subtle texture, adding a modern touch. In the center, a wooden drying rack with cream fabric panels emphasizes function and simplicity. Along the right wall, a wooden bench with a cushioned brown throw invites a cozy feel. Hooks above the bench hold coats and a hat, while two framed pictures with gold frames add subtle decoration. A woven basket and boots sit neatly on the floor beneath the bench.

Bedroom Window Corner

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Spacious bedroom corner bathed in natural light from multiple large white-framed windows. Light wood flooring contrasts with a patterned Persian-style rug near the bed. The bed is dressed in a light blue quilted cover with white pillows, imparting a soft, serene feel. Cream-colored curtains with subtle patterns frame the windows, complementing the neutral walls. A vintage-style metal folding table holds small vases with fresh flowers, adding charm and a touch of nature inside. A woven basket with a soft, textured throw sits nearby, and an upholstered chair with a floral motif provides a cozy reading nook ambiance. The room blends simplicity with classic, quiet elegance.

Screened Porch Dining

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

The screened porch reveals a rustic, inviting dining area with natural wood flooring and ceiling, enhancing the outdoor ambiance while providing shelter. Light filters in softly through the mesh screen, offering a lush view of trees beyond. The dining set includes woven rattan chairs with slightly curved backs and a sturdy wooden table with a simple cross-legged base. Fruit bowls on the table add a casual, homey touch. Visible through an open black-framed door, the design blends indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, emphasizing natural materials and a warm, relaxed aesthetic.

Screened Porch Dining Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Natural wood paneling envelops the porch space, adding warmth and rustic charm. A light-colored dining table anchors the area, surrounded by woven wicker chairs that enhance the casual, outdoor vibe. Along the wooden wall, a row of simple, dark wood chairs offers additional seating, introducing a contrasting tone. Bright yellow sunflowers in a white vase create a cheerful centerpiece on the table. Large screened windows and door provide clear views of lush green trees and an open lawn, inviting nature indoors while maintaining shelter. The overall design reflects a comfortable, relaxed setting ideal for outdoor dining and gatherings.

Dining Area with Desk

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A rustic dining space with a wooden table paired with four antique-style chairs that have intricately carved backs and cushioned seats upholstered in a soft pink patterned fabric. The room’s warm wooden floor complements the light blue-gray rug beneath the dining set. Natural light streams in from a modest, wooden-framed window behind the table, where a blue vase filled with sunflowers and other wildflowers adds a touch of nature. Two botanical prints hang on the soft cream wall. To the left, a vintage wooden desk holds a modern computer setup, blending historic charm with contemporary function. A delicate chandelier with crystal droplets hangs overhead, enhancing the room’s elegant yet cozy atmosphere. The rough textured stone walls on either side emphasize the building’s historic character while adding warmth and architectural interest.

Living Room Seating Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Soft, neutral tones dominate this bright living room, with beige armchairs and a matching sofa arranged symmetrically around a small wooden stool. The furniture is upholstered in a muted yellow fabric, complemented by patterned throw pillows featuring warm reds, blues, and golds. Cream-colored walls and light curtains frame three tall windows behind the sofa, letting in natural light. Traditional elements like the framed portrait and smaller artworks on the walls add a historical charm. A carpet with subtle checkered patterns covers the floor, while a carpeted staircase with wooden steps ascends along the right side wall, decorated with framed pictures and topped with a carved newel post.

Study Area Details

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Light-filled space with two tall windows framed by soft, cream-colored curtains. A dark wooden desk with finely turned legs stands paired with a wooden chair that has simple cushioning. Behind the desk, a decorative folding screen in black with intricate golden floral patterns adds a rich, vintage touch. On one side, a small white half-moon table holds a green glass table lamp, a framed drawing, and various small decorative items. A woven basket sits underneath. Nearby, an upholstered chair with detailed carved legs displays a framed painting, complementing the delicate and timeless aesthetic of this elegant work corner.

Bedroom Interior

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Soft, neutral tones dominate the bedroom, with white walls and light beige curtains featuring subtle leaf patterns. A large, neatly made bed covered with a quilted white bedspread with dotted accents anchors the room. Two bedside lamps with cream shades rest on rustic wooden nightstands, adding warmth. The room is illuminated by natural light streaming from multiple wooden-framed windows, complemented by a skylight overhead. Artwork with simple black frames lines one wall, while a vintage dresser topped with floral arrangement and an ornate mirror adds charm. Wicker furniture and a cozy rug complete the airy, tranquil atmosphere.

Cozy Sitting Nook

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

The space has a peaceful, inviting atmosphere with soft natural light filtering through delicate cream curtains framing a wooden window. The walls are painted white, enhancing brightness and highlighting a series of framed botanical prints arranged in a neat row. A plush, tufted armchair with turned wooden legs sits near the corner, topped with a cozy white throw. On the side, a small table draped in textured white fabric holds a stack of rustic woven baskets and small decorative items. Warm-toned hardwood floors are partly covered by an ornate area rug with muted reds, golds, and pale blues, adding a classic touch.

Bedroom Details

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Minimalist bedroom with a neutral color palette dominated by soft beige walls and carpeting that creates a calm atmosphere. The central bed is dressed in a rich, deep blue quilt contrasting elegantly with cream and floral accent pillows. Flanking the bed are two black metal side tables, each topped with a golden woven lampshade that adds warmth and texture. A wicker basket is tucked under one table, adding subtle rustic charm. A cozy rattan chair with pink floral cushions sits near a large window adorned with light, patterned curtains that gently diffuse natural sunlight, enhancing the airy and inviting ambiance.

Dining Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A humble dining area bathed in natural light from a large window framed by floor-length, patterned curtains in soft neutral tones. A rustic wooden table with a warm finish anchors the space, accompanied by four wooden chairs with cushions tied to the seats for added comfort. On the table, a vibrant bouquet of yellow and black-eyed Susans creates a lively focal point alongside scattered personal work items including a laptop, papers, and a green glass bottle. A simple table lamp with a white shade adds understated elegance, sitting atop a textured gray area rug that softens the look against the tiled floor. Walls are painted in a soft cream shade, providing a calm and inviting atmosphere.

Cozy Bedroom Corner

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A bright and tranquil bedroom area with a soft neutral palette centered around whites and gentle earth tones. The bed is made up with a crisp white quilt and topped with a textured muted green coverlet and several pillows in complementary pastel shades. Flanking the bed, matching white bedside tables support large, dark ceramic lamps with beige shades, adding an elegant touch. A wicker chair with a striped cushion provides additional seating beside the closed white door. The wide window above the headboard, fitted with wooden frames and a natural woven roman shade, offers a refreshing view and illuminates the space with natural light, highlighted by a small vase of fresh flowers. The ceiling light fixture is a small, rustic wicker pendant, enhancing the room’s natural, understated charm.

Cozy Reading Nook

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A bright and inviting space with white walls and ceiling, highlighted by a staircase with white railings and natural wood trim. A built-in bookshelf lines one wall, filled with numerous books of varying colors and sizes. A patterned orange area rug anchors the seating area with a light grey sofa adorned with colorful embroidered pillows and a floral throw. The seating arrangement includes a woven armchair draped with a blue throw and a striking red modern armchair. An ottoman with a bright blue cushion serves as a coffee table, alongside a woven basket holding books, creating a warm, eclectic atmosphere.

Exterior Front Entrance

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A quaint front entrance of a small historic house nestled among mature trees creates a serene and inviting atmosphere. The house exterior is clad in light-colored horizontal siding contrasted by a dark-colored door which is centered on a small concrete stoop accessed by three steps. The metal roof’s subtle sheen adds a modern touch to the otherwise traditional façade. The lush greenery surrounding the property, with grass gently covering the ground and trees providing dappled shade, enhances the peaceful rural setting. The simplicity of design emphasizes charm and historic character.

Dining Area

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

A wooden dining table with a natural finish dominates the space, surrounded by four mismatched chairs with cushioned seats. Light floods in through three windows dressed with bamboo roll-up blinds, casting soft shadows on the wide-plank wooden floorboards. Above, prominent rustic wooden beams add architectural warmth to the cream-colored walls. A large monochrome photograph of a sheep is centered on the wall, adding a touch of pastoral charm. To the right, a rattan chair with a bright blue cushion introduces color and texture, blending casual comfort with a refined rustic aesthetic in this serene and inviting dining nook.

Bedroom with Window Wall

Bedroom with numerous large windows and natural light
David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Natural light floods the room through a continuous row of tall, white-framed windows stretching across three walls, wrapping the bed in a serene view of lush greenery. The vaulted ceiling adds spaciousness, complementing the minimalist decor. A wooden bed frame with a simple, sturdy design sits in the center, layered with neutral bedding and white pillows stacked neatly. To one side, a woven round side table holds a classic lamp and glass vases with greenery, adding texture and freshness. A wicker armchair with cushions rests beside a unique black-and-white photo leaning casually against the wall, enhancing the cozy, nature-inspired ambiance.

Rustic Bathroom Sink

David Renberg of Foundation Realty

Dark, weathered wooden planks cover the walls, providing a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic. A white, rectangular ceramic sink with a tiled border sits below a large wooden-framed mirror, reflecting the room’s warm, cozy lighting. Wall-mounted silver faucets with vintage-style knobs extend directly from the wood-paneled wall above the sink. Two lamps with beige shades and decorative metal bases flank either side of the mirror, emitting a soft glow. Neatly folded white towels stacked on a white chair add contrast and freshness to the otherwise earthy tones. The visible switch panels blend unobtrusively into the rustic décor.

Listing Agent: David Renberg of Foundation Realty via Zillow 

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