The Ben Lomond Historic Site is a historical landmark located in Manassas, VA. It is a beautiful and well-preserved house museum that has been restored to its original splendor. The site is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at the history of the Ben Lomond Historic Site, its architecture, and the events and exhibits that make it a must-visit attraction in Manassas.
History of the Ben Lomond Historic Site
The Ben Lomond Historic Site has a rich history that dates back to the 1830s. The site was originally owned by Benjamin Tasker Chinn, who was a prominent farmer and businessman in the area. Chinn built a grand Greek Revival mansion on the property in 1832, which he named Ben Lomond after the famous mountain in Scotland.
The mansion was used as a hospital during the Civil War, where it served as a Union Army hospital during the First Battle of Manassas. The hospital treated wounded soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies, and it was known for its advanced medical practices at the time.
After the war, the property was sold and passed through several owners until it was acquired by the City of Manassas in 1989. The city restored the mansion to its former glory and opened it to the public as a house museum in 1999.
Architecture of the Ben Lomond Historic Site
The Ben Lomond mansion is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture, with its grand columns and sweeping staircases. The mansion features a central hall with two rooms on either side, and it has a total of five bedrooms and four bathrooms.
One of the standout features of the mansion is the intricate plasterwork that adorns the walls and ceilings. The plasterwork was restored to its original beauty during the restoration process, and it is a true marvel to behold.
Events and Exhibits at the Ben Lomond Historic Site
The Ben Lomond Historic Site is home to a variety of events and exhibits throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the annual Civil War Christmas, where the mansion is decorated in period-appropriate Christmas decor and visitors can experience what Christmas would have been like during the Civil War era.
The site also features a rotating series of exhibits that highlight various aspects of the mansion's history and architecture. Recent exhibits have focused on the history of the mansion as a hospital during the Civil War and the intricate plasterwork that adorns the walls and ceilings.
Gardens of Ben Lomond Historic Site
The Ben Lomond Historic Site is also known for its beautiful gardens. The gardens cover four acres and include a formal garden, a kitchen garden, and a cutting garden. The formal garden is designed in the shape of a wheel, with a fountain in the center. The kitchen garden includes herbs, fruits, and vegetables that were commonly grown during the 1800s. The cutting garden includes a variety of flowers that were used for decoration in the house.
Visiting Ben Lomond Historic Site
Visitors to the Ben Lomond Historic Site can take a guided tour of the house and gardens. The tours are conducted by knowledgeable and friendly guides who are happy to answer any questions visitors may have. The house is open to the public from April through October, and admission is $5 per person. The site is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
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Ben Lomond Historic Site
