Folly Castle Historic District, historic district in Petersburg, Virginia, USA
Folly Castle Historic District is a residential neighborhood in Petersburg containing homes and buildings from the 1760s through the 1800s that showcase Federal, Georgian, Italianate, and Greek Revival architectural styles. The area spans multiple blocks and includes private residences, a former high school built in 1917-1918, several churches, and homes that document different building periods.
The district developed around Folly Castle, built in 1763 and altered later in the 19th century. Its boundaries expanded in 1991 and 1999 to include additional residential blocks from the 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting Petersburg's growth over time.
The neighborhood takes its name from Folly Castle, a house built in 1763 for Peter Jones, whose family founded the city. The streets reflect how different groups of people, particularly formerly enslaved individuals, moved into the area after the Civil War and shaped new communities.
The district runs along West Washington Street and adjacent streets, with most buildings being private residences visible from the sidewalk. Visitors should remain respectful and honor residents' privacy, as interior access is limited.
The McIlwaine-Friend house served as headquarters for Major General George E. Pickett during the Civil War. This detail shows how the neighborhood played a role during one of America's most significant historical moments.
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