The historic JOHN MURDOCK HOUSE circa 1856 is a beautifully restored, 2 story brick farm house between South Mountain and downtown Boonsboro (read below for full history). Hand crafted of 12 inch thick, handmade brick walls, oak beams, chestnut trim and doors and original pine floors, it is a beautiful example of Washington County’s living history. Situated on a 1.57 acre on the “Old National Road,” the property is semi-wooded with walnut, sycamore, maple and willow trees surrounding a meandering section of Beaver Creek. With 2,720 sq ft of finished living space inside, you’ll find 4 bedrooms upstairs plus the original sleeping porch enclosed for a small bedroom or dressing room with closet. The large front parlor offers a bay window and an abundance of natural light. The pellet stove is perfect for chilly winter days. Through the formal dining room is a modern, eat-in kitchen with wainscoting, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, subway tile backsplash, farm sink, walk-in pantry, butcher block bar with seating for two, back staircase and access to the screened-in porch with new screen door. In addition to the bedrooms, the upper level offers 2 full bathrooms, one with a tub/shower combo, pedestal sink and built-in linen closet and the other with subway tile, vanity with stone top and pedestal bathtub with showerhead combo. It also offers the convenience of upper-level laundry with new full-sized washer and dryer and 2 staircases to the walk-up attic, perfect for future finished space. Stepping outside you’ll find a lovely patio for entertaining, large, fenced side yard with raised bed gardens, firepit and full creek access. There is even a parking area for multiple vehicles. Built-in shelving, transom windows, updated lighting, two staircases… Well Pump (2026), Water Ionizer (2025), Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer (2023), Water Heater (2018), Furnace (2013), Hoot Septic System (2012).

From The Historical Marker Database :

John Murdock House
On September 10, 1862 Thomas Stonewall Jackson and the Black Horse Cavalry arrived at the home of John Murdock by invitation and set up headquarters across the road for the 15,000 troops that arrived later that day. He had arrived after receiving secret orders from General Lee in Frederick. Jackson had dinner with Murdock as he set out to plan his next move. As the Black Horse Cavalry rode into town to check for the union troops they were confronted by a group twice the size of them but the brave Calvary charged them and sent them out of town. Jackson was walking his horse into town when he was abruptly warned to leave as the shoot out began.