Braehead (Fredericksburg, Virginia) facts for kids
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Braehead
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 Location in Northern Virginia
Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | 123 Lee Dr., Fredericksburg, Virginia |
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| Area | 18.9 acres (7.6 ha) |
| Built | 1858 |
| Built by | George Mullen |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 00000484 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 11, 2000 |
Braehead is a historic house in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It was built in 1858-1859 for a man named John Howison. The house is quite large, about 6,000 square feet! John Howison's sister, Jane Briggs Beale, became famous for writing about her experiences during the American Civil War.
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A Home with History
Braehead is a special place because of its long history. It was first known as "Greenview." The name "Braehead" came later.
The Howison Family
John Howison was born in Fredericksburg in 1809. His family had lived in Virginia for a long time. His great-great-grandfather, also named John Howison, came from a place called Braehead in Scotland. This is how the house eventually got its name!
In 1843, John Howison married Anne Richards Lee. She was a distant relative of the famous Civil War general, Robert E. Lee.
Braehead During the Civil War
The American Civil War was a very difficult time for the Howison family. John Howison's oldest sons sadly died during the war.
The house itself played a small part in the war. On December 13, 1862, General Robert E. Lee had breakfast at Braehead. This was on the morning of the Battle of Fredericksburg. His headquarters were located very close to the house.
After the war, John Howison could no longer afford to keep the house and its farm. He sold it to his younger brother, Robert Reid Howison. Robert was a lawyer and later a minister. He was also a writer who published a history of Virginia. It was Robert who renamed the house "Braehead."
Architecture and Features
Braehead is a two-story building made of brick. It has a style called Greek Revival, which was popular in the mid-1800s. This style often includes grand columns and designs inspired by ancient Greek temples.
The house has a main square part. It also has a two-story kitchen connected to the main house by a short hallway. The front and back of the house have covered entrances called porticos.
Other Historic Sites on the Property
The land around Braehead also holds important historical clues. You can find the old stone ruins of an icehouse. An icehouse was used to store ice, keeping food cold before refrigerators existed. There are also the remains of a chimney from an even older house.
Braehead is located within the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. This park protects many important Civil War battlefields and historic sites.
Recognition
Braehead was added to the National Register of Historic Places in May 2000. This means it is recognized as an important historical place in the United States. It's noted for its unique design and its connection to history.
