Scattered throughout the Mountain State are some of the most beautiful mansions dripping with opulence and begging for their history to be heard. Each mansion you visit will be different yet equally stunning and provide you with a glimpse into the past you will never forget.
Adaland Mansion
Explore the beautiful and historic Adaland Mansion located in Philippi. Adaland Mansion was built in 1870 and is set against the rolling hills of Barbour County. Today, you can tour the 23-room Greek Revival mansion house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Even the surrounding area is rich in history as the first land battle of the Civil War was fought in Philippi in 1861 making it the perfect place to explore and learn about the history of the area.
Bramwell
Set on the peninsula of the Bluestone River sits the tiny, historic town of Bramwell, which was once home to the most millionaires per capita of any town in America. Today you can visit and appreciate “Millionaire Row” with its beautifully well-preserved Victorian- and Tudor-style mansions. During the spring and Christmas, the historic homes are open for public tours with historic interpreters regaling listeners with stories of early pioneers and their families. After touring, stop by the Corner Shop Diner, which still has its original soda fountain for floats, shakes, sundaes, cone, burgers and hot dogs.
Julia-Ann Square Historic District
Visit the Julia-Ann Square Historic District in Parkersburg for a stroll into the past. The district is the largest and oldest historic district in West Virginia and was placed on the Register of Historic Places in 1977. Make your way through the 126 elegant and beautiful homes of the district, which are some of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the state. Many of the homes in the district are in the Second Empire, 19th Century Eclectic and Queen Anne styles and date from 1850 to 1910. A walk through this beautiful district is truly a great way to spend the day basking and appreciating the beauty that surrounds you.
Craik-Patton House
Stop by the Craik-Patton House or “Elm Grove” as it was once called, which is a house that was constructed in 1834 by James Craik, grandson of Dr. James Craik a close friend and person physician to President George Washington. The house is an incredible example of Greek Revival architecture and offers daily tours. During your tour, you will be guided by a knowledgeable house guide who will take you to the museum as well as provide you with free time to explore the gorgeous gardens and grounds.
The Historic Fleming Mansion
Set against a panoramic view of the Monongahela River and East Fairmont, the Historic Fleming Mansion was built in 1902 by Thomas W. Fleming who served two terms as mayor of Fairmont and was elected to the House of Delegates in 1905. The house itself is a 2 ½ story “U” shaped, stucco masonry building in a Colonial Revival/Beaux-Arts style. Since 1928, the mansion has served as the headquarters of the General Federation of Women’s Club’s WCF clubhouse, which has worked diligently to preserve this important historic structure and in 1979 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Halliehurst
Halliehurst was built in 1890 by Senator Stephen B. Elkins as a summer home. In the 1920s, his widow Mrs. Hallie Davis Elkins donated the 16,00-square-foot Victorian mansion to Davis and Elkins College. Halliehurst has served a number of roles such as housing for one of the college’s presidents, women’s dormitory, dining hall, music and art classrooms and a counseling center. Now a Historical Landmark its used as the Office of the President, Development Office, Office of Admission as well as a space for weddings and other private events.
Which magnificent mansion is your favorite?