The historic Cape Cod estate once belonging to the late philanthropist and garden designer Rachel “Bunny” Mellon has been listed for rent, with a price tag of $25,000 per week. Nestled within the gated community of Oyster Harbors, the property at 19 Indian Trail is famed for its meticulously designed gardens and historical significance, drawing attention from both garden enthusiasts and those intrigued by its past.
According to a statement obtained by Boston.com, listing agent Michelle Sylvia remarked, "The home has so much history, and that’s what makes it special." The 1948 structure still houses the original gardens that Mellon, granddaughter of the Listerine inventor Gerard Barnes Lambert, personally designed. Mellon's impact on horticulture was profound—a testament evident in the continued grandeur and allure of her Cape Cod estate's expansive gardens.
Throughout her life, Mellon created breath-taking "outdoor rooms," each with a distinctive theme. Details about these features were further highlighted in a listing announcement on irentcapecod.com, celebrating a collection that includes a white garden, a blue garden, and a vegetable garden alongside an impressive array of rare and exotic plants. Her work in landscaping and design even resonated with the likes of the Kennedys, notably Jaqueline Kennedy, who frequently visited Mellon's property.
Moreover, history intertwines with the property as the Kennedys were known regulars, and the Cape Cod Times highlights how Mrs. Kennedy found solace at the estate following the assassination of her husband. Michelle Sylvia shared with Boston.com that personal items from Mellon's tenure still adorn the property, beneath the shadow of its original kitchen infrastructure—fully functioning despite its age. Not even a second structure added in 2005, presumably by Mellon’s grandson, deviates from the stylistic heritage left by Mellon.
The rental offer spans two adjacent homes, coalescing into a total of six bedrooms and five full baths, each part boasting its own kitchen and outdoor space. With amenities like a large heated pool, tranquil views of Sampsons Island, and a dock on Nantucket Sound, the estate bridges the realms of luxury and storied elegance. As noted by Sylvia, according to Boston.com, "Some people might like the history," and for those less historically inclined, the opportunity to relax in a "beautiful setting in a gated community" still stands as a prime attraction.
