Western Hotel, listed on the NRHP in Virginia
The Western Hotel, also known as Joseph Nichols' Tavern, is a Federal-style building from the early 1800s in Lynchburg, Virginia. It features a simple rectangular form with balanced windows and doors arranged in straight lines, typical of its architectural period.
The building operated as a tavern starting around 1815 under Joseph Nichols' ownership. It was the last of several taverns that stood in Lynchburg before the Civil War and served as a vital stopping point for travelers passing through the region.
The Western Hotel served as a gathering place where travelers and locals shared meals and exchanged news. For generations, it marked the western gateway to the city and shaped the experience of those entering Lynchburg.
The hotel is located at the intersection of Fifth and Madison Streets within the Fifth Street Historic District, easily accessible while exploring downtown. Its position allows visitors to view the building from the street and appreciate its classic brick facade.
The building marked the western entrance to Lynchburg and served as a recognizable landmark for travelers arriving at the city. This location made it one of the first places visitors saw when entering from the west.
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