Monticola, Greek Revival plantation house in Howardsville, Virginia.
Monticola is a three-story brick mansion with a two-story portico and large stuccoed pillars at each corner of the structure. The property includes six original outbuildings such as a smokehouse and storage structures, along with a separate cottage on the grounds.
Daniel James Hartsook, a merchant and banker, built Monticola in 1853 as an important commercial and residential center near the James River. The house survived the Union destruction of 1865, remaining a significant reminder of the antebellum era.
The mansion reflects the design principles of its era, with tall ceilings and symmetrical proportions that displayed the original owner's wealth and status. The white architectural details contrasting against red brick create a visual impression that visitors immediately notice upon arrival.
The property sprawls across a large area and is best explored on foot to view all the outbuildings and architectural details fully. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and wear appropriate footwear to explore the entire grounds properly.
The house retained its original heart pine floors and pocket doors, which were installed by craftspeople in the 1850s. These functioning details show the quality of craftsmanship from the time of its construction.
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