Wickham House, Federal period mansion in Richmond, United States
The Wickham House is a two-story brick building with a shallow hip roof and stucco-finished walls that present a formal and orderly appearance. The central entrance framed by sidelights opens into interior spaces decorated with elaborate paintings and refined architectural details throughout.
Attorney John Wickham hired architect Alexander Parris to design this house in 1812, and it quickly gained prominence. Its reputation grew when it became associated with a significant legal case that captured public attention.
The rooms feature neoclassical paintings inspired by ancient civilizations that reflect what educated Americans valued in art during the early 1800s. These decorative choices remain visible today and show the artistic tastes of the period's wealthy families.
The house is open to visitors several days a week with guided tours available that show the layout and artistic features inside. Check ahead to learn which areas are accessible and whether reservations might be needed for your visit.
In 1898, the house was transformed by someone who collected objects from before European settlement arrived in the region. This change of purpose marked the start of a new life for the building as a place to preserve history.
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