Speed the Plough

Speed the Plough is a historic property in Amherst County with buildings from different periods. Besides the two-story brick main house, there is a springhouse, bank barn, tenant house, pump house, and a cottage built in 1933 with exposed roof beams and a spiral stairway connecting to the basement.

The property was established in the early 1800s and operated as a working farm for over a century. Around 1915 it was transformed into an orchard, with most buildings erected between 1799 and 1940.

The name comes from agricultural work and rural life. The various burial grounds scattered across the property reflect how different groups lived and were remembered here over time.

The property is accessible by country roads and offers room to explore multiple historic structures. Good walking shoes are wise since the site is rural and pathways can be uneven.

Rock Cottage was built in 1933 and features exposed roof beams with a striking spiral stairway descending to the basement. This later addition is easy to miss during visits, yet it stands apart from the older farm buildings with its distinct design.

Location: Virginia

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 37.53310,-79.19110

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:20