Camden (Port Royal, Virginia) facts for kids
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Camden
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Port Royal, Virginia |
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| Built | 1857 |
| Architect | Norris G. Starkweather |
| Architectural style | Italian Villa |
| NRHP reference No. | 69000228 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 12, 1969 |
| Designated NHL | November 11, 1971 |
Camden is a beautiful old house located right by the Rappahannock River in Port Royal, Virginia. It was built between 1857 and 1859. This house is a fantastic example of the "Italian Villa" style, which was popular back then. It's so special that it was named a National Historic Landmark in 1971 because of its amazing architecture. You can find Camden on the southeast side of the Rappahannock River, not far from where Camden Road meets United States Route 17.
Contents
Discovering Camden's Design
Camden is a two-story house made of wood. It's built in a pure Italianate style. The outside walls look like stone, even though they are wood. A round porch wraps around the front of the house. This porch looks out over the beautiful Rappahannock River.
Inside Camden House
The first floor of Camden has a main hallway. There is also a library, a dining room, and a parlor. A parlor is like a living room. There is also a bedroom on the main floor. The parlor still has its original furniture. This furniture is in a style called Victorian rococo.
The History of Camden
Camden was built on the foundation of an even older house. This first house belonged to the Pratt family. It was built around 1760. William Carter Pratt decided to tear down this old house. He wanted to build a new, grander home. He chose the same spot because it had great views.
Building a Modern Home
William Carter Pratt hired Norris G. Starkweather. He was an architect from Baltimore. Construction on Camden began in 1857. The house was finished in 1859. Camden was very modern for its time. It had central heating and cooling. It also had gas lights and running water. A special gas plant was built on the property. This plant made the gas for the lights.
Camden During the Civil War
The house's tall tower was damaged during the American Civil War. A Union gunboat hit it in late November 1862. The tower was never rebuilt after that.
Ancient Discoveries at Camden
The land where Camden stands is also very important. It was once home to a Native American family. This was in the late 1600s. During digging, old iron tools were found. Silver medals were also discovered. The British government made these silver medals. They gave them to Powhatan chiefs. These medals were a sign of peace. These medals were found while digging up an older building. This building was later found to be the house of John "The Ranger" Taliaferro.
