Luxurious oceanfront estate, previously owned by acting legend Bette Davis, now available for purchase with a price tag of $15 million in the scenic location of Maine.
In the picturesque town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a piece of Hollywood history is up for grabs. The oceanfront estate known as "Witch Way" (or "Seascape"), once home to legendary actress Bette Davis and her husband Gary Merrill, is now listed for sale at a staggering $15 million.
Steeped in history, the property at 55 Zeb Cove Road was the family's abode during the 1950s. Both Davis and Merrill, a fellow actor, had a deep connection to Maine, having spent their childhood summers in nearby areas - Davis at Ocean Park and Merrill at Prout’s Neck.
Spanning nearly eight acres, the estate boasts a grand 7,600 square foot main house, complemented by a 2,000-square-foot guesthouse built in 2002. The property offers breathtaking views of the granite coastline, stretching approximately 1,200 feet, and features a serene pond, reminiscent of the Merrill Marauders' hockey games.
The modern residence, a stark contrast to Davis's former home, was last sold in 2016 for nearly $3.8 million. The property is represented by Sam Michaud and Bill Gaynor of Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty.
For those interested in exploring the estate, tours can be arranged through local real estate agents. The property offers formal living and dining rooms, a cherry-paneled study, and a kitchen with a large center island, modern appliances, and a fireside breakfast nook. The upper floor includes five bedrooms, a spacious primary suite with a sitting area, balcony, walk-in closet, and a bath with a freestanding soaking tub.
Bette Davis, born in the Massachusetts town of Lowell, spent her formative years in Maine. She was the first female lifeguard at Ogunquit Beach when she was 18 years old and performed in local venues throughout her years. Davis and Merrill were married in the early 1950s and raised adopted twins, Margot and Michael, in the farmhouse.
The property's idyllic grounds are ideal for alfresco lounging and entertaining. Davis filmed scenes for one of her final movies, The Whales of August, on Cliff Island. Since its listing, the estate has garnered significant national and international interest.
The author of this article, Wendy Bowman, is a real estate writer, having previously freelanced for Modern Luxury and several other media outlets, primarily covering luxury properties. No further information about Bowman is provided in the article.
However, it's worth noting that another property in Maine, listed for $1.3 million, is not associated with Davis or Merrill. This remote island retreat seems to be a separate offering, adding to the diverse real estate market in the state.
Davis passed away in 1989 at the age of 81, leaving behind an indelible mark on the film industry. Her former Maine estate, "Witch Way," stands as a testament to her love for the state and offers a unique opportunity for someone to own a piece of Hollywood history.
Interested individuals can invest in a slice of Hollywood history by purchasing the Maine estate, "Witch Way," formerly owned by legendary actress Bette Davis and her husband Gary Merrill, listed at $15 million. For those with a penchant for luxury living, the estate boasts a home-and-garden that caters to finances capable of affording such real-estate. Boasting a lifestyle of opulence, the property provides breathtaking views, amenities, and a connection to the revered pioneer of the silver screen.
