Welcome to "Hickory Stick", a beautifully renovated 1881 stone schoolhouse thoughtfully transformed into a distinctive private residence on 4.13 acres in Cumru Township. This meticulously-kept home features five bedrooms, four baths, a private in-law suite, three fireplaces, an in-ground pool, grotto with fountain, fenced in garden, a creek view and four garage spaces. The property blends remarkable history with the comfort and flexibility of modern living. The property was formally recognized by the Berks County Conservancy as a Berks County Historic Site in 1983.
The original one-room schoolhouse remains the heart of the home. Tall windows, refinished wood floors, timber framing, and stained glass create a dramatic and inviting main living space, anchored by one of the home's three fireplaces. Look overhead and you will find one of Hickory Stick's most special details: intricate beam stenciling hand-painted by local Shillington artist Clinton Shilling. A rustic staircase and overlooking loft further preserve the unmistakable character of the former schoolroom.
The renovated kitchen brings a fresh, functional counterpoint to the home's historic architecture, pairing gray cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances with exposed stone and ceiling beams. An adjoining dining area offers room to gather while warming up by the fireplace, sliding door access to the patio all decorated with a warm neutral palette that allows its historic architectural details to take center stage.
Locally-milled maple flooring extends through the four main level bedrooms. The spacious primary suite was designed as a true retreat, with peaceful views across the grounds, sliding-door access outdoors, automatic blinds and two separate walk-in closets. The beautifully renovated 2025 primary bath features a freestanding soaking tub positioned to enjoy the view, an oversized glass-enclosed shower with dual shower heads and built-in bench, double vanity with marble countertops, brass fixtures, and abundant natural light.
The lower level offers another layer of the home's story. With its own private entrance, the in-law suite, renovated in 2026, includes the fifth bedroom and a private half bath. Once associated with the original schoolhouse kitchen, the space retains historic brickwork and an antique stove from the home's earlier years. Just beyond it is one of Hickory Stick's most unexpected spaces: a stone grotto with distinctive windows, a working fountain, and another fireplace. Whether imagined as a wine room, lounge, game room, studio, or entertaining space, it is the kind of room guests will remember long after they leave.
Outside, the experience continues. Enjoy morning coffee on the covered brick terrace, dine under lights on the garden patio, tend raised beds in the fenced garden, wander through the established plantings, or enjoy a view of the nearby creek. Mature trees provide both sun and shade across the expansive lawn, while the in-ground pool, pool house and outdoor shower create a private summer retreat. Stone walls and garden features throughout the grounds add another layer of character to the setting.
Attached and detached garages provide four total garage spaces, along with workshop, storage and flexible areas for hobbies, fitness, or creative pursuits. Additional updates include all rooms with smart capability, a heat-pump water heater and Level 2 EV charger in the detached garage.
Despite its peaceful, tucked-away feel, Hickory Stick remains convenient to Flying Hills, Route 176, shopping, restaurants, and downtown commercial area of Reading/Berks County. Hickory Stick is more than a beautifully updated home; it is a piece of Berks County history. An 1881 schoolhouse carefully evolved for modern life while preserving the architecture, artistry and character that make it truly one of a kind. Come experience the story for yourself.
