Chatham Manor

Chatham Manor is a Georgian mansion on Stafford Heights in Fredericksburg, Virginia. The three-story brick building rises above the Rappahannock River and has two symmetrical wings with 12 rooms on its main floor.

William Fitzhugh built the estate between 1768 and 1771 using the labor of 100 enslaved people. During the Civil War, the house served as a Union field hospital, treating thousands of wounded soldiers.

The name Chatham honors William Pitt, a British Prime Minister whose support of the colonies influenced the owner. The interiors display hand-carved woodwork and wall paintings that served ceremonial purposes.

Visitors explore the mansion on guided tours that begin at the north entrance. Parking is located near the main building.

George Washington and Abraham Lincoln both visited the estate, though nearly a century separated their stays. Clara Barton worked here as a nurse during the Battle of Fredericksburg in December 1862.

Location: Fredericksburg

Part of: Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park

Website: http://nps.gov/frsp/chatham.htm

GPS coordinates: 38.30880,-77.45540

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30