#Inn at meander plantation haunted windows

In the 1800’s, the building was home to the Mayor of Fredericksburg, the Inn’s namesake, Richard Johnston. The Richard Johnston Inn is a distinct upscale 18th century Inn, constructed in 1770 by architect John Taylow, one of the original signers of The Declaration of Independence. As one of the most historic bed and breakfast on the east coast, it is truly a step back in time.The Richard Johnston Inn & 1890 Caroline House In 2017, the property was purchased by a group of families and friends committed to preserving the heritage of the property, supporting the local community, and delivering “Meander Moments” for guests.

The Meander Whippet still sets the breed standard. They lived their entire adult lives here, and as noted breeders of horses, cattle, and dogs, the colorful sisters are credited with introducing Whippets to America. The property name was changed back to Meander in the early 1900s by owner George Shearer, who maintained the property as an estate for his daughters, Judith and Julia. Local historians believe the Battle of Cedar Mountain actually began at Meander’s front gates. Numerous important Civil War battles were fought near the property, which is only 4 miles from Cedar Mountain, site of one of the war’s largest and fiercest cavalry battles. At that time, the property encompassed more than 3,000 acres.ĭuring the Civil War, the mansion housed a Union official, Col. William Wirt, famous 18th Century American lawyer and counsel for the prosecution against Aaron Burr in 1807, spent much of his youth here. His lifelong friend, Thomas Jefferson, visited here often, as did General Lafayette, George Washington, George Mason, and many other patriots. Henry is buried in the family cemetery located in the field behind the house along with several other Fry and Lightfoot family decedents. Fry died from injuries sustained in travel to battle, Washington assumed command of the forces and as they say, the rest is history.įollowing Joshua’s death, his son Reverend Henry “Hank” Fry, inherited the property and built the first part of the house naming the property Elim. Fry commanded the Virginia Militia at the start of the French and Indian War, with George Washington as his second in command.

Fry and his partner Peter Jefferson, father of Thomas Jefferson, surveyed and drew the first official map of the area known as Virginia. A member of the House of Burgesses and professor at William and Mary, he also served as the commander of the Virginia militia. Joshua Fry, naming it Meander because of the curve in the Robinson River running through. Their excavations unearthed spear and arrow points and chards of pottery, among other artifacts, dating back as early as 2000 BC. This unique property is steeped in history.Īrcheologists have discovered a prehistoric native American site on the property near the Robinson River. Prior to that, the house had been a private residence since it was built in the 1700s. The Inn and Tavern at Meander opened in September 1992 after undergoing a year of restoration and preparation. Selected Top 5 Bed and Breakfasts in America for 2017 by World Property Journal.Chosen as one of the top 15 Bed and Breakfasts in America 3 years in a row.Rated “Most Elegant Bed and Breakfast” by Arrington’s Book of Lists.Featured in Fodor’s Travel Guides as “One of the south’s best Bed and Breakfast Inns.”.Romantic accommodations are provided in 12 elegantly appointed rooms and cottages located in both the Manor house and other buildings on the property. Or join other guests for pleasant conversation in the parlor where Thomas Jefferson and General Lafayette were frequent visitors.

#Inn at meander plantation haunted windows

Inside the grand Colonial mansion where 9-over-9 windows look out over old Virginia boxwoods, grand and rare trees, lush gardens and ancient brick sidewalks, you will find plenty of private nooks for reading, writing or quiet contemplation.

Stake your claim on the ever-popular red Adirondack chairs that face spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Comfortable chairs and rockers line both levels of the expansive back porches, providing peaceful respites for sipping afternoon tea, reading a novel or watching breathtaking mountain sunsets. Cool off with summertime wading in the Robinson River. Watch bluebirds flitter from fence to fence or hummingbirds hover around the back porch gardens. Stroll through formal boxwood gardens or wander woods and fields where wildlife abounds.