Located in the Desirable North-end of Manchester Just 2 blocks off of Elm Street! easy walking distance from downtown businesses
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Driving down Northern Chestnut, one cannot help but wonder at the stately presence of The Gresley Residence. This turn of the century historic Manchester property has gone largely unchanged for over 100 years. With intricately detailed architecture and towering columns throughout, The Gresley residence is full of grand style and décor. Other notable features include the preservation of the stained glass doors and windows. With a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences, the property is made up of 48 apartments including studios, one bedroom, two bedroom and two bedroom premium suites.
The Gresley Residence
669 Chestnut Street, Manchester, NH
Features:
New Renovations Throughout
Granite Countertops
Ceramic tile
Stainless steel appliances
Hardwood flooring
Heat & Hot Water Included
Amenities:
Off Street Parking
Onsite Laundry Facilities
Resident Garden
Community Charcoal Grills
Picnic Tables
From $850/mo.
Studio
One Bedroom
Two Bedroom
Two Bedroom Deluxe
History of the Gresley
In 1911, at Manchester’s height of prosperity, the impressive Gresley apartment building was constructed at 669 Chestnut Street. This Victorian gem has thiry-nine units, including four with deluxe balconies and two with superior balconies that grace the regal façade.
The original owner, Edwin Lee Gresley, immigrated to the United States in 1895, and became a successful businessman with his E.L. Gresley Furniture Company on Elm Street. He also built the Pillar Manor apartment buildings on Hanover Street. The Gresley building, now known as the Gresley Residence, has changed ownership several times in the past 115 years. The Menning family currently owns the property, having purchased it from Pierre Peloquin and Don Hebert in July of 2015.
Throughout its history, this stately building has changed very little on the outside, but has had some interior alterations. The current owners are committed to restoring or enhancing the charming features original to the building. Hardwood flooring, decorative woodwork moldings, and leaded glass windows add character and elegance to all of the apartments. Stunning stained glass doors and windows highlight the magnificent front entrance that is framed by stalwart Corinthian columns. A new sign in the front yard draws attention to the grand entrance and replicates the intricate design features visible on the building’s columns, brackets and cornice. Future outdoor improvements will include ornamental trees in the front yard, and an outdoor patio and garden enclave behind the building.
Spacious apartments and lovely architectural detail have made this historic apartment building attractive to many residents in the past century. Notable among them are R.C. Albro, a civil engineering M.I.T. graduate who moved to Manchester in 1912 and contributed to the city’s growth. Air Force officers and families lived here during WWII when Manchester Airport, then known as Grenier Field, was integral in the war effort. Even a French Ambassador spent some time here.
In 2000, the Gresley Residence bested thirty-six other entrants to win the “People’s Choice Award” in the Manchester Historic Association’s contest designed to foster interest in historic preservation. This “Grand Old Lady” is the epitome of architectural elegance, and a source of pride for owners, residents, and the community.
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