A stunning 19th-century home with deep ties to Liverpool's civic heritage has been listed for sale in Woolton. Known as Mossdene, on Glenrose Road, this four-bedroom property is part of the Crawfordsburn Mossdene Strawberry House complex, a Grade II-listed building recognized for its architectural and historical significance. Priced at offers over £980,000, the home is being marketed by Sutton Kersh.
Historical Roots
According to The Gateacre Society, the three connected properties—Crawfordsburn, Mossdene, and Strawberry House—were originally one large mansion called Roseleigh. The earliest section, encompassing Mossdene and Crawfordsburn, dates to around 1861, with the Strawberry House extension added later. The house was first inhabited by the Mozley siblings: Frederick, aged 21; Fanny, 19; Alfred, 13; and Eliza, 10, along with two guests and a staff of five. Their father, Elias Joseph Mozley, was a wealthy banker residing on Sandon Terrace in the Georgian Quarter. He was a member of the Old Hebrew Congregation on Princes Road and established the "Mozley and Elias Joseph Coal and Blanket Fund," which provided winter fuel and blankets for about 70 poor people. He died at 55 in January 1851, leaving an estate worth about £200,000 (around £24.8 million today).
Mayoral Connections
Elias Joseph Mozley was also the brother of Charles Mozley, who served as Mayor of Liverpool in 1863/64. During his term, the 300th anniversary of Shakespeare's death was celebrated with a grand ball for Liverpool's elite, while theatres and amusements were opened free for the working classes. Two years after his mayoralty, Charles Mozley's bank, Barnes & Co, collapsed with liabilities of £3.5 million (about £370 million today). An investigation revealed that nearly all of Charles's private fortune had been mortgaged for £100,000 (£10.5 million) to cover a misappropriation of funds by a family member. Charles then moved to London, where he died in May 1881.
Property Features
The beautifully restored 1850s home blends original character with modern style. It features a front garden with a striking tiled pathway and a cast iron entrance door. Inside, a welcoming hallway showcases an original staircase and fireplace. The main lounge is a standout space with beautiful leaded stained glass windows and a Carrera marble fireplace. The rear of the property opens into a superb open-plan dining kitchen and lounge, creating a bright and sociable hub. The lounge area is enhanced by a log burner, while the kitchen centers around a large island and a traditional Aga cooker. A ceiling lantern above the dining space fills the area with natural light. Bifolding doors open onto a stunning rear garden, beautifully landscaped and featuring a cast iron verandah for alfresco dining. The property also includes a 30-foot garage and 50-foot side access suitable for driveway use.
Additional Amenities
The lower ground floor offers a fantastic cinema room, ideal for family movie nights or watching sports. Upstairs, sash windows add period charm, and the main bathroom features a striking cast iron bath. The master bedroom contains a secret mezzanine, perfect as a reading nook or office space. Overall, this unique home offers space, charm, and a high-quality finish, with carefully restored original features complemented by modern touches throughout.
