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A remarkable piece of Cape Cod history has recently emerged on the real estate market, and it’s bound to capture the imagination of homebuyers and history enthusiasts alike. Priced at $2,195,000, this enchanting residence is rumored to be the very place where Walt Disney conceived his celebrated 1941 film, "Fantasia."
Nestled in Centerville, MA, this charming shingle-style home is built around a historic water tower—Disney’s retreat during the creation of his iconic animated feature. According to the listing, reported initially by Mansion Global, this property was once owned by Disney’s close associate, Herbert Kalmus, the brilliant mind behind Technicolor, a groundbreaking innovation that transformed Hollywood filmmaking with vibrant colors.
Since Kalmus’s time, the property has been extensively renovated. Originally part of the grand Fernbrook estate, it has undergone significant updates, with a complete rebuild in 1995, blending modern amenities with its storied past. While the water tower remains a nod to its historic origins, the rest of the home has been updated to cater to contemporary tastes and comforts.
Fernbrook, with its illustrious history, has hosted a range of notable personalities. The estate's past guests reportedly include Hollywood legends like Gloria Swanson and Audrey Hepburn, as well as political figures such as John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy. The estate’s historical inn, now converted into a private residence, was sold in 2022 for $2.4 million, as reported by Realtor.com®.
"There's nothing ordinary about this extraordinary house, especially with a touch of Disney magic in the tower," says Gene Orloff of Sotheby’s International Realty–Cape Cod, Osterville Brokerage. "This property offers three levels of comfortable living space and a picturesque setting. It is within walking distance of Centerville Village’s renowned Craigville Beach, the local candy store, and Four Seas Ice Cream. It's truly a home for generations to cherish."
Fernbrook’s original creator, Howard Marston, enlisted Frederick Law Olmsted, the esteemed designer of Central Park, to design its lush grounds. After Marston’s passing, Kalmus, an MIT-trained scientist and engineer, took over the estate. His contributions extended beyond his technological advancements; he also donated the land that became Kalmus Beach.
The four-bedroom home currently on the market features a first-floor primary suite, an updated kitchen, a private guest suite, and a third-floor tower. Additional amenities include an office, a family room, a formal dining area, and multiple outdoor spaces, including decks and porches. The property spans 1 acre, boasting Olmsted-designed gardens, a serene lily pond, and extensive green spaces that reflect over a century of meticulous landscaping.
With its blend of historical allure and modern convenience, this Cape Cod gem offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a home rich in both character and charm. Gene Orloff of Sotheby’s International Realty–Cape Cod, Osterville Brokerage, is managing the listing for this extraordinary property.
