Ellerslie

Ellerslie, nestled in the charming city of Colonial Heights, Virginia, is a historic gem that invites visitors to step back in time and explore the rich tapestry of American history. This Italian Villa-style mansion, with its intriguing past and architectural beauty, stands as a testament to the opulence and tumultuous events of the 19th century.

The Origins of Ellerslie

The story of Ellerslie begins in 1839 when David Dunlop, a Scottish-born tobacco magnate, and his wife, Anna Mercer Minge, acquired a sprawling 200-acre tract along Swift Creek. The land, strategically located near the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, was ideal for Dunlop’s burgeoning tobacco empire. The couple's lineage was notable, with Anna being a niece of U.S. President William Henry Harrison, adding a touch of presidential connection to the estate's history.

Initially, Dunlop constructed a grand plantation house on the property, complete with a mosaic floor and frescoed dome. Unfortunately, this original structure was consumed by fire in 1856. Undeterred, Dunlop commissioned Irish architect Robert Young to design a new mansion, reflecting the grandeur befitting a man of his stature. The resulting villa-style house, with its flat roof, turrets, and castellated parapet, was a masterpiece of elegance set amidst romantically landscaped grounds.

Ellerslie During the Civil War

Ellerslie's serene beauty belies its role during the American Civil War. In 1864, the mansion found itself at the heart of the Confederate line of defense along Swift Creek. Confederate Generals Johnson Hagood and Bushrod Johnson, commanding 4,200 men, valiantly defended the area against a much larger Federal force. The battle left its mark on Ellerslie, with a cannonball striking the house, a poignant reminder of the fierce skirmishes that took place.

During this period, Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard established his headquarters at Ellerslie. The mansion became a hub of military strategy, witnessing the ebb and flow of Confederate and Union forces. Despite the chaos, David Dunlop continued to reside at Ellerslie until his death in May 1864, leaving behind a substantial estate that included his tobacco factory and land.

Post-War Transformation and Architectural Evolution

In the years following the Civil War, Ellerslie underwent significant transformations. In 1910, Dunlop’s grandson, David Dunlop III, embarked on an ambitious remodeling project. The Richmond architectural firm of Carneal and Johnston was enlisted to reimagine the mansion in the popular Bungaloid style, while retaining the original structure and tower. The flat roof and castellated parapet were replaced with a hipped roof and dormers, giving the house a fresh yet timeless appeal.

The interior was completely remodeled, embracing a blend of Louis XVI and Georgian motifs. The stair hall, with its finely crafted exposed joist ceiling and rich, dark-wood stair, exudes a sense of refined elegance. This transformation ensured that Ellerslie remained not only a historic landmark but also a stylish residence for the Dunlop family.

The Legacy of Ellerslie

Throughout the 20th century, Ellerslie remained in the Dunlop family, serving as a dairy farm and a local landmark. The estate's large dairy barn stood as a testament to its agricultural past until it was demolished in the early 1990s. The surrounding farmland has since transformed into a bustling shopping center, yet the mansion itself endures as a symbol of the area's rich history.

Ellerslie was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, cementing its status as a treasured piece of Virginia's heritage. For visitors today, a trip to Ellerslie is not just a journey through history but a chance to experience the architectural splendor and historical significance of a bygone era.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Ellerslie offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its storied walls and elegant design invite you to explore the legacy of a family that played a significant role in the region's development. Ellerslie stands as a proud reminder of the resilience and grandeur that define the American spirit.