John Neilson (architect) facts for kids

John Neilson (born around 1770 – died 1827) was an Irish immigrant who came to the United States. He settled in Virginia and became a very skilled master carpenter, joiner, architect, and builder in the early 1800s. He is most famous for his important work on historic places like Monticello, Montpelier, Bremo, and the University of Virginia.

Early Life and Journey to America

John Neilson was born in County Antrim, Ireland, around 1770. As a young man, he trained to be an architect in Belfast. He also became involved in a movement against the British government. Because of this, he was captured along with his two brothers during a rebellion in 1798. One of his brothers, William, sadly died. John Neilson and his brother Sam were sent away from Ireland on ships. John eventually arrived in Philadelphia, where he became a citizen of the United States in 1804.

Building a Career

Around 1804, Neilson met Thomas Jefferson, who was then the third President of the United States. From that time until 1808, Neilson lived and worked as a joiner at Monticello. This was Jefferson's famous home in Albemarle County, Virginia. At Monticello, Neilson began working closely with another skilled joiner, James Dinsmore, who was also from Ireland.

From 1809 to 1810, Neilson helped expand Montpelier. This was the home of the fourth President of the United States, James Madison, located in Orange County, Virginia.

Working at Bremo

Between 1817 and 1820, Neilson worked at Bremo. This was a large plantation in Fluvanna County, Virginia, owned by John Hartwell Cocke. Neilson's work at Bremo was very important. He helped design the main house, called Upper Bremo. He took Cocke's ideas and sketches and turned them into the final design. Neilson truly shaped the beautiful look of this building. Bremo has been called one of the most perfect houses in the style inspired by Jefferson.

Building the University of Virginia

Later, Neilson helped build the University of Virginia. He worked on several important parts of the university. This included Pavilions IX and X, seven dormitories, the Rotunda, and the Anatomical Theater. His skills were key to creating these historic buildings.

Later Life and Legacy

John Neilson died on June 24, 1827. He passed away at his home in Keene, Virginia, near Charlottesville. He was buried in an unmarked grave in Charlottesville's Maplewood Cemetery.

After his death, Neilson's estate included many of his own drawings and paintings. These included books of drawings of the University of Virginia, detailed drawings of architectural styles like Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian, and designs for the Rotunda and other university buildings. These drawings show his great talent and his important role in American architecture.