Edmund Ruffin Plantation

Edmund Ruffin Plantation is a two-story residence built in the Greek Revival style, featuring white columns, symmetrical windows, and traditional outbuildings positioned across the property. The main house displays classical architectural details typical of antebellum Virginia estates, with period-appropriate construction methods and materials.

Edmund Ruffin established this plantation in 1843 and conducted agricultural experiments that led to innovations in soil improvement techniques. His work with marl fertilizer transformed farming practices in the region and gained him recognition as a pioneering agricultural reformer.

The plantation stands as a testament to Southern agricultural practices of the 1800s, reflecting the economic and social structures of antebellum Virginia.

The site is located in Hanover County and accessible via Route 301 north from Richmond, with signage directing visitors to the historic district. Visitors should plan time to explore both the main residence and the outbuildings scattered across the grounds.

Edmund Ruffin is buried on the grounds and later became known for his role in initiating the bombardment of Fort Sumter, the event that started the Civil War. This dual legacy reveals how the plantation owner's influence extended beyond agricultural reform into the political events that shaped the nation.