Virginia (UBM)- Virginia features a rich historical tapestry, embellished with innumerable old houses narrating tales of its bygone days. It may come as a surprise, but the oldest of the group is not Mount Vernon, which was the home of George Washington, or Monticello, which was the home of Thomas Jefferson. It isn’t even Jamestown, which was the first permanent English settlement in America. Bacon’s Castle, a brick castle built in 1665, is the oldest brick house in the state that has been documented.
This blog post examines the fascinating history and lasting characteristics of Bacon’s Castle, investigating the factors that have contributed to its existence for more than 120 years.
The Historical Journey of Bacon’s Castle
Bacon’s Castle, which was built by the wealthy businessman and planter Arthur Allen in Surry County, Virginia, was originally called “Allen’s Brick House.” It was one of the most impressive houses in the colony, with a steep roof, a symmetrical design, and a distinctive triple-stack of chimneys. The mansion was elegant and grand, with a moat, drawbridge, and fortified gatehouse that made it look like a castle.
In 1676, Nathaniel Bacon and his rebels took control of the mansion during a revolution against colonial governor William Berkeley. It was at this time that the term “Bacon’s Castle” was first used. The insurrection, which lasted four months until Bacon’s death, was caused by dissatisfaction with Berkeley’s policies about trade, taxes, and interactions with Native Americans. The Allen family was able to restore the house after the damage that was done during the occupation.
Bacon’s Castle was owned by the Allen family until 1844, when it was sold to the Hankins family. In the end, the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (now known as Preservation Virginia) acquired it in 1973. They carefully renovated it and presented it to the public as a museum.
Bacon’s Castle: Unique Characteristics
Bacon’s Castle is a magnificent example of Jacobean construction, a style that was popular in England during the early 17th century. The following are some of the distinctive characteristics:
- Triple-stack chimneys are the oldest in the country. They are known for their diagonal placement and ornamental brickwork.
- Gables: Triangular parts of a roof that are decorated with molded brick patterns and ornamental spikes (finials).
- Windows: Large and rectangular, with diamond-shaped panes, wooden frames, and brick arches with keystones.
- The entrance is located on the side of the building that faces the James River. It has a wooden door, iron hinges, a brick porch with columns, and a carved wooden pediment.
- Interior: Each story has four rooms, which are joined by a central corridor. The rooms have wooden floors, paneling, fireplaces, and original furniture.
The legacy goes on
Bacon’s Castle, a national treasure, is a tribute to the history and culture of Virginia. It is open to the public from March to December and provides guided tours, special events, and educational programs. Bacon’s Castle is a one-of-a-kind location for weddings, meetings, and other events, in addition to being historically significant. Visit the website of Bacon’s Castle for additional information or to arrange a visit.
Bacon’s Castle is more than just a residence; it is a living monument that brings together the past, present, and future. It calls you to dive into the past, value the present, and imagine a future that is connected to the past. Make sure you take advantage of the chance to learn about this fascinating part of Virginia’s history.
The Oldest House in Virginia Is Still Standing After 120 Years.
