This historic home was built in 1665. Made entirely of brick, the home was owned by Arthur Allen, a successful planter, and his later his son, Arthur Allen, who was a Virginian politician. The name of the "castle" is taken from Nathaniel Bacon who was a rebel leader in the revolt against Royal Governor Berkeley in 1676. During the revolt the home was seized by some of Bacon's men, who drove Allen out. This house is a rare example of Jacobean architecture and is one of the oldest standing brick homes in English North America. You can visit Bacon's castle Wednesday through Sunday between 12 noon and 5 p.m. Tickets are between $5 and $8.
Ash Lawn-Highland is the home of the United States' fifth President, James Monroe. It's adjacent to Thomas Jefferson's home and burial place, Monticello, which is a National Historic Landmark. Jefferson, the third U.S. president, urged Monroe to move in so they could "create a society to their liking." This home sits on a 535-acre working farm and was originally built in 1799. The home, gardens and farm are available for tours between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Open days vary. There are festivals throughout the year at the homestead, including Christmas festivities.
This residence, located in MIddletown, Virginia, also has Presidential connections. Bell Grove Plantation was the home of James Madison's sister and her husband, Major Isaac Hite, Jr. The plantation was built in 1797 and was at the center of the 1864 Battle of Cedar Creek. There are guided tours daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; prices range between $5 and $8.
If you are interested in a historic home that was built in the 20th century, Virginia can whet your appetite as well. One of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's designs, the Pope-Leighey House, is located in Alexandria. In his design for journalist Loren Pope, Wright attempted to build a home that was affordable, responsive to the environment and well designed. Commissioned by Pope in 1939, the home is quite small at only 1,200 square feet. The second owner was Marjorie Leighey, who donated it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. The home is only open from March through December, Thursday through Monday, and reservations must be made in advance. Adult admission is $8.50; admission to school-age children is $4.
