Exchange Hotel (Gordonsville, Virginia) facts for kids
|
Exchange Hotel
|
|
|
U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
|
Exchange Hotel, August 2008
|
|
 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | S. Main St., Gordonsville, Virginia |
|---|---|
| Built | 1860 |
| Architect | Benjamin F. Faulconer |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 73002046 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
|
| Added to NRHP | August 14, 1973 |
The Exchange Hotel in Gordonsville, Virginia, has a long and interesting history. It was built in 1860 by Richard F. Omohundro. This grand building was located right next to an important railroad crossing. It quickly became a popular place for tired travelers on the Virginia Central Railroad to rest.
Contents
The Exchange Hotel: A Historic Stop
Imagine a time when trains were the main way to travel! The Exchange Hotel was built to welcome passengers. It offered a comfortable place to stay after a long journey. Its location near the railroad made it a very busy spot.
A Hospital During the Civil War
The American Civil War began in 1861. Because of its important location, the Exchange Hotel changed its role. In March 1862, it became part of the Gordonsville Receiving Hospital. This hospital helped many soldiers during the war.
Caring for Soldiers from Both Sides
Thousands of soldiers were brought to the hospital by train. They came from famous battles like Cedar Mountain and Chancellorsville. Even though it was mainly a hospital for the Confederate army, it treated soldiers from both sides. Over 70,000 men received care here. Sadly, more than 700 soldiers were buried on the hospital grounds. The building itself survived the war.
New Beginnings After the War
After the Civil War ended in 1865, the United States began to rebuild. This time is known as the Reconstruction period. The Exchange Hotel continued to serve its community.
Helping Freed People and Rebuilding
During Reconstruction, the building became a Freedman's Bureau Hospital. It provided care for newly freed people who had been enslaved. As the country healed, the railroads grew even more. The beautiful building once again became a hotel. It was well-known and respected until the 1940s, when it started to decline.
Today: A Museum of History
In 1971, a group called Historic Gordonsville, Inc. bought the property. They worked hard to restore it to its former glory. Today, the Exchange Hotel is a museum. It teaches visitors about the Civil War era.
Exploring the Museum's Collections
Inside the museum, you can see many items from the Civil War. These include old medical tools, army uniforms, and even firearms. There is also a bookstore where you can learn more. The museum is an important part of the Gordonsville Historic District.
External links
- Official Website: https://www.theexchangehotelmuseum.org/
