Violet Bank Museum

Nestled in the heart of Colonial Heights, Virginia, the Violet Bank Museum stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of American history. This historic plantation house, with its charming Federal-style architecture and storied past, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the significant events that unfolded within its walls. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, Violet Bank Museum is more than just a historical site; it is a captivating journey through the annals of American history.

The Origins of Violet Bank

The story of Violet Bank begins in 1777 when Thomas Shore purchased 144 acres of land atop Archers Hill. By 1778, the first house was completed, adhering to the traditional two-over-two center hall plan typical of late colonial Tidewater Virginia. This initial structure played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War, serving as the headquarters for General Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, at the outset of the 1781 summer campaign in the South. It was from here that Lafayette orchestrated maneuvers that would eventually lead to the British surrender at the Siege of Yorktown.

Revolutionary War Significance

Violet Bank witnessed two significant Revolutionary War actions, both involving clashes with British forces under Major General William Phillips. In March 1781, Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben and his Virginia Militia defended the hillside, followed by another skirmish in April led by Lafayette himself. Despite heavy British losses, Phillips' objectives to capture the river crossing on the Appomattox and gain control over the Turnpike were thwarted. The strategic importance of Petersburg, the major thoroughfare through Southside Central Virginia, made these battles pivotal in the American fight for independence.

A New Beginning

Tragedy struck Violet Bank in 1810 when a fire, believed to have started while the family attended church, destroyed the original house. The surviving chimney stacks and foundation, however, provided a base for rebuilding. Between 1810 and 1815, a new structure emerged, featuring a radically different design. Architectural historians believe that Benjamin Latrobe, or one of his pupils, influenced the new design. The result was a stunning Federal-style house, characterized by octagonal bays, a recessed portico, and intricate Adam-style ceiling moldings.

The Haxall Era

Following the fire, Jane Grey Shore Haxall and her husband Henry Haxall oversaw the reconstruction of Violet Bank. Their wealth and taste for fashion likely led them to consult with Latrobe or one of his students. The new design incorporated the existing foundation and chimney stacks, creating a unique architectural solution that balanced traditional and innovative elements. The house's tripartite foundation plan, strict Vitruvian construct, and distinctive portico columns harmonized to form an architectural masterpiece.

From Private Residence to Public Landmark

Violet Bank remained in the hands of the Gilliam family, descendants of Thomas Shore, until 1873. During the Civil War, part of the main house served as a hospital during the siege of Petersburg. The war left the Gilliam family impoverished, leading to the sale of the property to Mrs. Evelyn Gasquet Marshall of New York. Subsequent owners included Capt. Abel N. Haskins and the Greater Petersburg Realty Corporation, which transformed Violet Bank into a dairy farm and later subdivided the land for housing development.

A Museum is Born

In 1919, Mrs. Alice Pierrepont purchased the much-reduced Violet Bank, residing there until 1948. The property then changed hands to the American Legion Post 284 before being acquired by the City of Colonial Heights in 1959. Initially used as the Chamber of Commerce and the city's first public library, Violet Bank found its true calling in 1988 when it was transformed into a historic house museum under the Recreation & Parks department.

Exploring Violet Bank Museum

Today, Violet Bank Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past through its well-preserved Federal-style architecture and American Interior Decorative Arts. The museum's exhibits showcase the rich history of the house and its role in pivotal moments of American history. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms, adorned with period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the families who lived there and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

A Visit to Remember

A visit to Violet Bank Museum is a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on American history and architecture. The museum's serene setting and meticulously preserved interiors provide a tranquil escape from the modern world, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Colonial Heights. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a peaceful and educational outing, Violet Bank Museum promises an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Violet Bank Museum is not just a historical landmark; it is a living testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the American spirit. Its walls echo the stories of the past, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of history that has shaped this remarkable site. A visit to Violet Bank Museum is a must for anyone seeking to connect with the roots of American history and experience the enduring legacy of this historic plantation house.