Virginia (UBM) – Virginia boasts a rich historical background, adorned with numerous old homes that recount stories of its past. Surprisingly, the oldest among them is not Mount Vernon, George Washington’s residence, nor Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. It is also not Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America. Instead, Bacon’s Castle, a brick structure built in 1665, holds the title of the oldest documented brick house in the state.
This blog delves into the intriguing history and enduring features of Bacon’s Castle, exploring the reasons behind its survival for over 120 years.
The Historical Journey of Bacon’s Castle
Constructed by affluent planter and businessman Arthur Allen in Surry County, Virginia, Bacon’s Castle was originally named “Allen’s Brick House.” It was one of the colony’s most striking residences, featuring a steep roof, a symmetrical layout, and a distinctive triple-stack of chimneys. The grand mansion also boasted a moat, a drawbridge, and a fortified gatehouse, giving it the appearance of a castle.
In 1676, Nathaniel Bacon and his rebels seized the mansion during an uprising against colonial governor William Berkeley. It was during this period that the name “Bacon’s Castle” emerged. The four-month rebellion, which ended with Bacon’s death, stemmed from dissatisfaction with Berkeley’s policies on trade, taxation, and relations with Native Americans. Following the occupation, the Allen family managed to restore the house despite the damage it had sustained.
The Allen family retained ownership of Bacon’s Castle until 1844, when it was sold to the Hankins family. Eventually, the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (now called Preservation Virginia) acquired the property in 1973. They meticulously restored it and converted it into a museum for public viewing.
Bacon’s Castle: Unique Characteristics
Bacon’s Castle stands as an exceptional example of Jacobean architecture, a style that was prominent in England during the early 17th century. Some of its notable features include:
- Triple-stack chimneys – The oldest of their kind in the nation, recognized for their diagonal placement and decorative brickwork.
- Gables – Triangular sections of the roof adorned with molded brick designs and ornamental spikes (finials).
- Windows – Large, rectangular windows with diamond-shaped panes, wooden frames, and brick arches featuring keystones.
- Entrance – Located on the side facing the James River, it includes a wooden door with iron hinges, a brick porch with columns, and a carved wooden pediment.
- Interior – Each floor consists of four rooms connected by a central corridor, featuring wooden floors, paneling, fireplaces, and original furnishings.
The Legacy Continues
As a national treasure, Bacon’s Castle serves as a testament to Virginia’s cultural and historical heritage. Open to the public from March to December, it offers guided tours, special events, and educational programs. Beyond its historical significance, Bacon’s Castle also serves as a unique venue for weddings, meetings, and various gatherings. For more details or to plan a visit, explore Bacon’s Castle’s official website.
Bacon’s Castle is more than just a historic home; it is a living monument that bridges the past, present, and future. It invites visitors to explore history, appreciate the present, and envision a future intertwined with its rich legacy. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this remarkable piece of Virginia’s past.
The Oldest House in Virginia Is Still Standing After 120 Years.
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