The Jubal Early Homeplace

The Jubal Early homeplace isn't far from us, but it's only open on Sundays from 1-5 so we've never had occasion to stop.  The other weekend we were driving by at just the right time, and in no rush, so we decided to check it out. Built in 1814, it is one of the oldest Federal style houses in the region, and I have always been a sucker for exploring old houses.  The right half is original (and it was done in the Federal style - only one room upstairs and one room downstairs initially).  The left section was added about 30 years later and was done in Greek Revival style.

Jubal Early was a lawyer and Confederate general in the Civil War.  He was a bit of a scoundrel; well known for his foul language and shenanigans.  The boys were enthralled by a story during our tour of how he once hid in a space behind the kitchen chimney (behind the house, so you cannot see it in this picture) to avoid arrest. 

We were the only folks there on the day we went, so we got a private tour.  I especially loved seeing the pictures of the house when the caretakers original bought it back in 1996 - it was a crumbled disaster.  They really have done a remarkable restoration of it.  They were able to retain the original flooring, as well as mantles and fireplaces.

You might not think touring an historic home would be fun for kids, but the boys were legitimately interested and asked a lot of questions.  It was a fun way to spend a rainy afternoon, and we learned some new facts about history along the way.