White Hall (Zanoni, Virginia) facts for kids
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White Hall
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 Location in Virginia
Location in the United States
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| Location | VA 668, near Zanoni, Virginia |
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| Area | 6.8 acres (2.8 ha) |
| Built | 1836 |
| NRHP reference No. | 84003540 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | August 16, 1984 |
White Hall is a historic house located near Zanoni, in Gloucester County, Virginia. It sits right by the Ware River. This beautiful home was once the main residence of the important Willis family, who lived in colonial Virginia.
The Willis family was one of the "First Families of Virginia." This means they were among the earliest and most influential European settlers in the state. The first Willis family member arrived in Virginia by 1642.
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White Hall: A Glimpse into History
White Hall is more than just a house; it's a piece of history. It shows us how people lived long ago. The house is a great example of a popular style from the early 1800s.
The House's Design
The main house at White Hall is made of brick and has two and a half stories. It was built in 1836. Experts have called it an "excellent example" of a "temple-form dwelling." This means it looks a bit like an ancient Greek temple, with a grand, balanced shape.
Its design shows the "neo-classical spirit." This was a popular style in early America. It was inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome.
Renovations Over Time
White Hall has been updated and changed over the years. The house combines its original 1836 structure with later renovations. Dr. Samuel Powell Byrd built the original house.
For example, the living room and dining room have "colonial revival paneling." This was added during a restoration in 1938. However, the fireplaces (mantels) are much older. They have special designs and original doors that open onto the front porch. This porch faces the Ware River.
Location and Surroundings
White Hall sits on about 7 acres of land. It's located near where Wilson Creek flows into the Ware River. To reach the house, you drive down a long, winding path. This path is lined with old cedar trees.
The Willis Family Story
The land where White Hall stands has a long history with the Willis family. Before the current house, there was an older, one-story brick house built by the family.
Early Beginnings
The land was first officially claimed (patented) in 1666 by Francis Willis. He was the first person in his family to come to Virginia from Oxford, England. Francis Willis was an important figure. He served as a representative for Gloucester County in the Virginia House of Burgesses in 1652. The House of Burgesses was like an early form of government or parliament for the colony.
Passing Down the Estate
Francis Willis later returned to England. When he passed away in 1690, he left his estate to his nephew, also named Francis Willis. This nephew is believed to have started building the first house on the property. It was 56 feet long and 22 feet wide. Later, a wing was added, measuring 17 feet by 25 feet.
The nephew then left the house to his son, another Francis Willis. This Francis became the head of a very important family in Virginia. He also served in the House of Burgesses in 1748.
White Hall Today
White Hall is located about six miles southeast of the Gloucester County Courthouse. It is one of several historic places in Gloucester County listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, White Hall is privately owned.
