Researching the history of a property can be immensely rewarding. When the different pieces of the puzzle start to come together you can discover a wealth of information about previous owners and their lives as well as the various roles the property filled in the community contributing to the rich tapestry of the history of the area. However, it can be quite intimidating to know where to start the search. Here are a few ideas: Continue reading
A visit to a famous historic home can be an enjoyable way to spend a day admiring beautiful architecture and landscaping. It can also provide unique educational opportunities and a great gateway to experiencing the past. It so happens that Virginia produced more United States Presidents than any other state in the Union: 8 in total including 4 out of the first 5. Luckily for us, 3 incredible presidential estates are located within 30 miles of each other in and around the Charlottesville area. Thomas Jeffersonās Monticello, James Monroeās Highland and James Madisonās Montpelier all offer tours sure to entertain, inspire and provide insight into history. Continue reading
Virginia is one of the country’s original thirteen colonies. It is no wonder that you see history and historic homes everywhere you look. Virginia is an obvious choice to begin your search for that perfect historic home for sale. You may be aware of the charming historic towns of Staunton, Smithfield, Lexington and Chincoteague and may think about focusing your search there; however you would be remiss if you did not take a good long look at Danville, Virginia. Continue reading
Hampton, Virginia may not be the first city you think of when considering historic towns, but according to Hampton.gov, the city of Hampton was founded in 1610 and is the first continuous english speaking settlement in the United States. Hampton is located where the James River meets the Chesapeake Bay. Because of its location to the water, Hampton has been an important military port throughout history. If you are looking for historic homes for sale, check out this lovely small city by the bay.Ā Continue reading
To live in the state of Virginia is to be surrounded by history. Here you can wander through historic cities such as Williamsburg, Waterford and Yorktown that will transport you back in time. In Virginia you can also tour individual homes that were owned by the people who created that history or you can purchase and live in an historic home of your own. Below we will look at 5 historic homes that belonged to trailblazers and innovative thinkers. Who knows you may just be inspired to buy a historic home of your own.Ā Continue reading
The Church Hill neighborhood lies in the heart of the city of Richmond Virginia and is the perfect place for those longing to buy a historic home. The area is the oldest neighborhood in Richmond and is said to have gotten its name when William Byrd ll stood in the area now known as Libby Hill park and saw how the view below resembled the view of Richmond on Thames in London, England. Most of the homes in this area are pre Civil-War and architecture consists of Colonial, Greek Revival, Italianate and Queen Anne. The city has restored more than 200 historic properties in the Church Hill area since 1983. Live here and you will enjoy evening strolls down charming tree lined streets illuminated by the area’s distinctive gaslights. As you stroll you will pass charming row housing and townhouses adorned with wrought iron, ornate wood porches, lavish scrollwork and facades of stone and brick. Living here you will have many opportunities to enjoy history.Ā I will share some of the many things that you can enjoy in the Church Hill area below.Ā Continue reading