Mount Airy, Virginia facts for kids

Mount Airy is a name given to several places in the state of Virginia, USA. When you hear "Mount Airy," it could be referring to a historic house, a small community, or another important spot. This name often suggests a place with a view, as "mount" means mountain or hill, and "airy" suggests open space.

What is Mount Airy?

The name "Mount Airy" is used for different locations across Virginia. These places include historic homes and small, unincorporated communities. Each "Mount Airy" has its own unique story and features.

Mount Airy Plantation: A Historic Home

One of the most famous places named Mount Airy is a large, old house called Mount Airy Plantation. It is located in Richmond County, Virginia. This beautiful home was built a very long time ago, in the mid-1700s. It was designed for a wealthy man named Colonel John Tayloe II.

Who was Colonel John Tayloe II?

Colonel John Tayloe II was an important person in Virginia's history. He was a rich landowner and a respected leader. He wanted a grand home that showed his importance and good taste. The house he built, Mount Airy, was designed to be both comfortable and impressive.

What Does Mount Airy Plantation Look Like?

Mount Airy Plantation is a great example of Georgian architecture. This style was popular in the 1700s. It often features balanced designs, tall windows, and grand entrances. The house is made of stone and has a very formal look. It was built to last for many generations.

Why is Mount Airy Plantation Important?

Mount Airy Plantation is very special. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This means it is recognized by the United States government as a place worth protecting because of its history. Even more, it is a National Historic Landmark. This is a higher honor, given to places that have played a very important role in American history. People visit Mount Airy to learn about life in the 1700s and to see its amazing architecture.

Other Places Named Mount Airy in Virginia

Besides the famous plantation, there are other places in Virginia that share the name Mount Airy. These include:

• Mount Airy (Leesville, Virginia): This Mount Airy is located near Leesville, Virginia. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Bedford County, Virginia.
• Mount Airy (Verona, Virginia): This location is found near Verona, Virginia. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in Augusta County, Virginia.

There are also smaller communities that use the name:

• Mount Airy, Charles City County, Virginia: This is a small, unincorporated community in Charles City County, Virginia. An unincorporated community means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a town or city.
• Mount Airy, Pittsylvania County, Virginia: Another unincorporated community, this one is in Pittsylvania County, Virginia.
• Mount Airy, Shenandoah County, Virginia: This is also an unincorporated community, located in Shenandoah County, Virginia.

These different places named Mount Airy show how common and well-liked this name is across Virginia.