Historic homes of the South-West Mountains, Virginia

Front matter

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Preface

THE celebrated section of the South- West Mountains, Virginia, stands as pre-eminently among her sister sections as does the Old Dominion in the galaxy of stars in the Union as the birthplace of Presidents, governors, and statesmen, as well as the seat of a refined and hospitable people.

The list of those who have lived here is a long and honored one. Many names are of such national celebrity that it is felt that any account of those who bore them and of the homes which so reflected their personality will be of more than local interest.

My object has been to do for these historic homes what Bishop Meade has already done for the churches of Virginia, — to perpetuate the characteristics of these famous houses along the South-West Mountains, many of which are fast disappearing under the advance of modern architecture, giving a faithful picture of each as they once stood, as well as an anecdotal account and brief genealogy of their inhabitants, thus embalming the traditions of these noble Virginia families.

PREFACE

To the many who have aided in the collection of the facts and incidents here recorded the writer returns his sincere thanks, trusting that, in handing down these family traditions portraying the simple, pure life of their forefathers, it may stimulate others to emulate their beautiful character, and perpetuate those good " old Virginia" customs, when

** Gallant Mirth was wont to sport awhile. And serene old Age looked on with approving smile."

"Broad Oak,"

Near Keswick, Virginia, November, 1898.

Contents

PAGE

INTRODUCTION— THE SOUTH-WEST MOUNTAINS . . ii

Their Traditions j their People.