Why is Governors Island THE best real estate on Lake Winnipesaukee?
First here is a Brief history of Governor’s Island.
No one really knows why the island was named Governor’s Island. But is was owned by Governor Wentworth by a
land grant in 1772.
Eventually the Island passed through many hands until it was bought by Nathaniel Davis. Davis constructed the first Bridge to the Island,
and he established a successful farming co-operative. Little remains of this settlement but it is why the Island was called Davis
Island by some in the area. The Island remained in the Davis family from 1799 until 1857 where is passed through many hands until
1880 when the Island was bought by Stilson Hutchins (founder of the Washington Post). Hutchins built a
Granite mansion on summit of the Island that would have had impressive
views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the mountain ranges. The legacy of Hutchins ownership is the development of the shoreline and summit
roads the remain to this day. In 1928 Governor’s Island was purchased by Clifford hayes who attempted to create a resort area
similar to Bald Peak Colony Club.The mansion burned
in 1934 and the venture failed in in 1935 when estate fell into foreclosure, But the stone barn was purchased from the bank by an
association of the Islanders who restored it and turned it into a recreational center. Since 1960's Governor’s Island has grew
steadily to over 156 homes in 1990's.
Property values have increased by over 400% over the past 50 years.
Real Estate is still a great investment on Governor’s Island as property values are still increasing, and the recent housing crisis
has not effected this market. The island still is host to the Governor’s
Island Club and the association is thriving.
To learn more about the Gilford NH area see the
Thompson-Ames Historical Society.
Click Links to see all Lake Winnipesaukee Real Estate and all Island Real Estate and for all NH Lakes Region Real Estate.
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$9,500,000 Beds 5 Baths 10
with 360 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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A remarkable home on a sensational Lake Winnipesaukee lot with sandy beach and an enormous, covered dock for multiple boats. Enjoy picturesque sunsets and added outdoor living space from the sweeping, enclosed, stone patio with fireplace. This home was architecturally designed and custom built with unmatched detail and quality. Sophisticated, state of the art systems are easily monitored and controlled by your personal computer. The theater has custom seating and sound. The billiards room with curved walls and fireplace area is a gentleman's dream. The private gym rivals the finest health club. The Master Suite is luxurious and spacious, and the Great Room overlooks the manicured lawn and gardens toward picturesque lake and mountain views. The walkout lower level includes a summer kitchen, family room, game room and spa. With a carriage home and nine garages, this is the Ultimate Lake Home on prestigious Governor's Island! |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$5,995,000 Beds 8 Baths 13
with 566 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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A Family Compound on Lake Winnipesaukee that surpasses excellence. Experience wonderful sunrises, sun-filled days and the ever-changing, magnificent sunsets at this estate that is on a rare, beautiful point of land. Built in 2007 this four bedroom main home has over 6000Sf of outstanding living space plus there's a four bedroom guest home with over 3400sf of fabulous living space. Each home is on its own lot. Outstanding docking, sandy beach, incredible views, level lot, patios, two homes, two lots with 566 feet of crystal clear waterfront. This is a rare find. You will be impressed by the privacy, style and amenities. Elevator, wine cellar, billiard room, fabulous baths, private bedroom suites, exercise room, post and beam porches with fireplace, five garages are just a sampling of the amenities at this impressive property. The LOT is LEVEL! The PRIVACY is AMAZING! The LOCATION is PRIME. THIS IS A PRIZE in the outstanding community of Governor's Island. Rooms and square footage are for both homes |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$3,895,000 Beds 4 Baths 6
with 150 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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This landmark home on Governors Island is truly one of a kind. You will step inside and say, "WOW!" Built with style, care and precision, this Queen Ann Victorian style home will impress the most discerning buyer. The design, the attention to detail, the care with which it has been maintained is impressive. The coffered ceilings, walls of cherry, raised panels, hardwood flooring are all are simply beautiful! The floor plan was designed for easy living. A spacious master suite, oversized Great Room, private den, beautifully appointed kitchen with breakfast room plus dining area are all on the main level. Patio doors open to sweeping decks and verandas for enjoying views and the tasteful perennial gardens and manicured lawn. Second level has en-suite bedrooms. Lower level has a dance room, billiards room, office, an impressive wine room for the serious collector and a fabulous Family Room with wet bar. There's garage space for four vehicles. Step outside and be impressed with the stone patios, sandy beach and canopied docking. Its simply amazing! Enjoy the amenities of Governor's Island with the impressive new clubhouse, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, volleyball court and basketball court. At children's playground with appeal to the youngsters. |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$3,500,000 Beds 5 Baths 6
with 150 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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Brand New Construction to be built on almost an acre with Southwest exposure and glorious sunsets!! 150 +/- feet of owned water-frontage on Lake Winnipesaukee on prestigious Governors Island in Gilford New Hampshire. This property will include a stunning Adirondack home with 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, new breakwater, new U shaped dock, crystal clear water, sandy bottom and stunning granite stone patios. The home will be constructed to perfection with a heated 3 car garage, Cedar shakes, columns with stone bases wrapped in fir, central AC, 8 zones, 2 Rinnai On Demand hot water heaters, generator and so much more. The expansive first floor Master Bedroom Suite with gas fireplace will have a spectacular bath with double sinks, granite tops, custom tile shower and a massive walk in closet. Open concept layout with jaw dropping kitchen, Great room and wood burning fireplace with stone to the ceiling and fir mantle. 10' high ceilings on first floor with 9' on second floor. Work hand in hand with the builder to customize your dream lake home! Governors Island offers amenities such as a sandy beach, new tennis courts, playground, new clubhouse, lakefront picnic areas and walking trails. 1 hour and 45 min to Boston. Welcome to the Lake!! |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$3,495,000 Beds 3 Baths 7
with 150 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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This stunning Lake Winnipesaukee home has been totally designed and reconstructed to perfection. With a SW exposure, the sun streams throughout the three levels. A detached bunk house is perfect for guests. Step inside, and you will be impressed with the open style design and walls of windows. A Great Room with fireplace includes a chef’s kitchen, spacious dining area and a den which is surrounded by enormous custom windows. The walk-in Butler’s Pantry provided convenient storage and work area. The office is convenient and private. The Master Bedroom is spacious and has a spa-like bath and double walk-in closets. There is also a second main level en-suite bedroom. The second level includes three en-suite bedrooms, library and bonus room. The lower level has a summer kitchen, wine room, game room, pub and family room. Walk out to stone patios surrounding the home that are perfect for enjoying the picturesque sunsets that are beautiful and change each day. The double covered dock will accommodate two 30 foot boats plus jet skis. Governor’s Island amenities are impressive and include beach, clubhouse, tennis, pickle ball, volley ball, basketball, playground and hiking trails. The home is part of a special community. |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$2,590,000 Beds 5 Baths 6
with 125 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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Escape to Lake Winnipesaukee at this fantastic waterfront home on the highly sought-after Governor's Island. Decorated with exquisite landscaping, this contemporary house has space for the largest of groups. Enter the foyer and you are instantly greeted by the water view; a stunning sunken living room with vaulted ceiling and stone fireplace. The kitchen is tastefully appointed and is beside the two dining areas. Another living room off the kitchen features a full size wet bar, completely surrounded by windows with the wonderful Winnipesaukee view. Next is the fully enclosed porch facing the lake with access to the outdoors. The master bedroom is on the 1st level looking directly out to the water with massive bathroom and walk-in closet. Another large sleeping room with private bathroom on the 1st floor. Upstairs you will find a loft space, sun room and two spacious bedrooms with shared full bath. Down the hall is another guest suite with large closets and private bathroom. The lower level is finished with 3/4 bath, hearth, and full size wet bar. This space also walks right outside, perfect for easy in-and-out with wet bathing suits and to grab a beverage! Outside resides a very spacious patio, a lovely perched beach with sugar sand, and a covered private dock, protected by breakwater. There are two garage bays off the main living space and additional two garage bays for golf carts and storage. Interior photos and 3D tour coming soon! |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$2,395,000 Beds 4 Baths 6
with 150 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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This charming cape style home was enlarged and updated with style. The open designed kitchen/family room is warm and inviting with a soaring fireplace, beadboard walls and slate flooring. It opens to a spacious screened porch and large deck which overlooks a beautifully landscaped yard and is perfect for enjoying the beautiful sunsets. The living room was crafted with a soaring ceiling that is lined with beadboard. The fieldstone faced fireplace and hardwood flooring compliment the room. It has a spacious dining area. Two main level bedrooms share a bath. The second level has a large master bedroom with a spa like bath and a second en-suite bedroom. The walkout lower level was designed for entertainment and fun. It included a large game room with wet bar and a media room. There is also an en-suite bedroom for guests or extended family. It opens to a large stone patio and leads to a beautifully designed waterfront with firepit and a large waterside deck. Enjoy the amenities of Governor’s Island with new clubhouse, playground, tennis, pickle ball, basketball and volleyball. Also enjoy hiking on the private 140 acres of woodlands. This home is subject to summer rentals. |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$1,850,000 Beds 14 Baths 10
with 90 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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The Iconic Smitholm on Lake Winnipesaukee has been the vacation destination of choice for 4 generations. Consisting of 7 dwellings on 1.15 acres it has it all including, a 96 foot deep-water dock which gives you 192 feet of docking for all the toys. This size dock is rare and the 90’ of waterfrontage and sandy bottom of this crystal-clear lake is invaluable. Considered the Gold Coast and surrounded by multi-million dollar homes, this slice of heaven faces Governors Island and looks down the Dockham Shore waterfront. The lake and mountain views are spectacular looking out over one of the widest spots on the lake. It is one of the most convenient locations on all of Lake Winnipesaukee and just a few miles from the airport for those that have private aircraft. This rustic cottage colony would be ideal for a large multi-generational family with everyone having their own dwelling. Maybe you would make room for a much larger home and keep a cottage or 2. The possibilities are endless and some income from the loyal families that have come here for generations may be appealing. The condo development potential of rehabbing and winterizing the cottages is a strong possibility. No drive-bys or drive-ins to the property please. Shown by appointment only. |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$1,850,000 Beds Baths 0
with 90 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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The Iconic Smitholm on Lake Winnipesaukee has been the vacation destination of choice for 4 generations. Consisting of 7 dwellings on 1.15 acres it has it all including, a 96 foot deep-water dock which gives you 192 feet of docking for all the toys. This size dock is rare and the 90’ of water frontage and sandy bottom of this crystal-clear lake is invaluable. Considered the Gold Coast and surrounded by multi-million dollar homes, this slice of heaven faces Governors Island and looks down the Dockham Shore waterfront. The lake and mountain views are spectacular looking out over one of the widest spots on the lake. It is one of the most convenient locations on all of Lake Winnipesaukee and just a few miles from the airport for those that have private aircraft. This rustic cottage colony would be ideal for a large multi-generational family with everyone having their own dwelling. Maybe you would make room for a much larger home and keep a cottage or 2. The possibilities are endless and some income from the loyal families that have come here for generations may be appealing. The condo development potential of rehabbing and winterizing the cottages is a strong possibility. No drive-bys or drive thru the property please. Appt. only. |
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Gilford NH Land For Sale on Governor’s Island
$1,500,000 Acres 0.97
with 150 ft. Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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Almost an acre building lot with Southwest exposure and glorious sunsets with 150 +/- feet of owned water-frontage on Lake Winnipesaukee on prestigious Governors Island in Gilford New Hampshire. This gently sloping property has been cleared and includes a permitted new break water and a new U-shape dock, crystal clear water, sandy bottom and stunning stone patios. Governors Island offers amenities such as sandy beaches, new tennis courts, playground, new clubhouse, lakefront picnic areas and walking trails. 1 hour and 45 min to Boston. |
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Gilford NH Home For Sale on Governor’s Island
$1,200,000 Beds 5 Baths 4
with Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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Tucked away on two private acres on highly sought after Governor’s Island, this beautiful family estate is truly serene & elegant. As you cross over Lake Winnipesaukee via Governor’s Island bridge & up the private driveway, you are greeted by peaceful woods surrounding this one of a kind 6400+ sq ft brick colonial. Perfect as a year round home or vacation retreat the flexible floor plan is ideal for entertaining & getting away from it all. Enter this magnificent home through the impressive foyer w/ cathedral ceilings, marble floors and two awe-inspiring wood carved custom staircases. Through the arched doorway is the heart & soul of this estate - a great room w/ soaring 20 ft ceilings & custom slate wood-burning fireplace. Don't miss the sophisticated library/executive office in a private corner of the home! Retreat to your giant master en-suite in your private wing on the 2nd floor. The granite master bath features an oversized walk-in spa shower w/ 4 shower heads & skylight. On the 3rd floor, a huge bonus room with a view could be a great game room, theater or artist's studio! More special features incl geothermal heating, irrigation, security system, central AC & fenced-in backyard! Amenities offered by the Governor’s Island Club incl 4 private beaches, extensive walking trails, tennis court, basketball volleyball, playground & brand new clubhouse - even an impressive summer program for kids at the GIC! Enjoy this year round lakes region family home for many years to come! |
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Gilford NH Land For Sale on Governor’s Island
$259,000 Acres 1.9
with Waterfront on Lake Winnipesaukee
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EXCEEDINGLY PRIVATE AND SPECIAL GOVERNOR`S ISLAND LOT. It is level and has a state approved 4 bedroom septic system. The lot abuts community land for ease in hiking and cross country skiing. It is an easy walk to the community beach, tennis, pickle ball, playground and newly constructed clubhouse. Location is prime, and the lot is lovely. |
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