Melrose

Melrose is a limestone mansion with three stories and a distinctive octagonal tower rising from the center. The tower crowns the structure with stone battlements that extend across the roof line, giving the whole building a castle-like appearance.

Construction took place between 1856 and 1860, and the building briefly served as a hospital for Union soldiers during the Civil War. After its military use ended, the property changed hands several times over the decades.

The design draws from European castle architecture and reflects the romantic ideals of the 1800s. Visitors can see how this style choice appears in the heavy stonework and defensive-looking walls.

The residence sits north of Casanova on VA Route 602 on a large private property and can be viewed from the road. Since it remains a private home, visitors should respect the owners' privacy and view it from a distance.

The mansion inspired author Mary Roberts Rinehart to write her debut novel 'The Circular Staircase' in 1908, which became her first major success. The striking tower and stone walls provided the perfect setting for her mystery story.