About 16 Navy Drive
This magnificent historic residence, known as Seclusaval, is far more than a home—it is a living piece of Calloway County history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Seclusaval is recognized as the first brick home constructed in Calloway County, Kentucky. Originally built circa 1836 by Peter and Virginia Hamlin, the home was thoughtfully named "Seclusaval" by its original owners. Set upon approximately six acres, the property immediately evokes the character and atmosphere of an early Southern estate, offering a sense of seclusion, grandeur, and timeless beauty. The architecture of Seclusaval reveals remarkable craftsmanship and intentional detail. Every sixth row of brick is noticeably darker, creating a distinctive horizontal stripe pattern across the exterior. The bricks themselves were made by hand from clay and sand found directly on the property and fired in a kiln on site—a remarkable testament to the labor and craftsmanship of the era. Originally designed as a four-bedroom residence with a formal parlor, formal dining room, and an outdoor summer kitchen, the home reflects the lifestyle and architectural traditions of the early 19th century. Over nearly two centuries, Seclusaval has been thoughtfully adapted to include modern conveniences, including a kitchen, bathroom, utility room, dual HVAC systems updated in 2026, and a tankless water heater, while retaining the character that makes this property so extraordinary. Inside, the craftsmanship becomes even more captivating. Original wood floors extend the full length of the rooms—some measuring 18 to 20 feet without interruption—reflecting the immense trees from which the original flooring was milled. A striking walnut staircase rail features an elegant gooseneck banister, while hand-carved trim and millwork throughout the home showcase an extraordinary level of detail rarely found today. The construction itself is equally impressive. The exterior and interior walls are approximately 13 inches thick, consisting of three layers of brick with plaster, providing both strength and a tangible connection to the building traditions of the 1830s. Throughout the home, jewel-toned rooms complement the historic architecture, while oversized windows flood the interiors with natural light. Sunlight moves across the original floors and highlights the architecture, creating an atmosphere that is both dramatic and intimate. Seclusaval has endured nearly two centuries of changing times, wars, weather, and the inevitable passage of time. Yet its presence remains remarkably powerful. Walking through its rooms, it is easy to imagine the generations who have passed through its doors and the stories contained within its walls. If walls could talk, Seclusaval would have nearly two centuries of stories to tell. This is not simply a historic home. It is a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of Calloway County's earliest history—a property where architecture, craftsmanship, Southern character, and an extraordinary story converge. Whether envisioned as an exceptional private estate, boutique venue, historic inn, or legacy property, Seclusaval is truly without equal. A home where history, architecture, and stories of the past come together. This home sits on approximately 6 acres of land with a natural landscape and massive cedar trees on the property.
