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Tuckahoe Plantation - Childhood Home of Thomas Jefferson & Popular Wedding Venue
Living in Richmond, VA, means you don't have to look far to find history all around you. Some of America's most compelling historic sites are a mere stone's throw from many Richmond homes for sale.
One of those sites is Tuckahoe Plantation. Less than 30 minutes from the heart of Downtown Richmond, this incredible 18th-century historic plantation is one of the best-preserved structures from its era in Virginia. It was also the boyhood home of future president Thomas Jefferson.
Formative Years
A picturesque house set on a rambling estate in Goochland County, Tuckahoe was originally built for the Randolph family around 1712. Additional construction between 1730 and 1740 expanded the home to its current configuration – a unique H-shaped floor plan rarely seen in its time – and made space for William Randolph's wife and children.
After Randolph's death in 1745, the home was passed to his cousin, Jane Randolph and her husband, Peter Jefferson. Together they moved to Tuckahoe with their four children, including two-year-old Thomas.
Thomas Jefferson, who would become the third President of the United States, spent the next seven years of his life at Tuckahoe. These were formative years during which he was educated at a small one-room schoolhouse on the property.
Stepping Back in Time
Tuckahoe is a rare example of the early architectural Georgian style, with two long gabled wings connected by a broad central block. The home still sits on its original site, with high brick foundations and four chimneys – two on the south end and two on the north. Much of the interior paneling and embellishments are intact as well.
Amazingly, the outbuildings are also still intact, leading historians to consider Tuckahoe to be one of the most complete 18th-century plantations in North America. The plantation "street," gives a rare glimpse into the full range of plantation life. The barn, kitchen, smokehouse, storehouse, and plantation office are all still intact. Along with two slave quarters, and the schoolhouse where young Thomas Jefferson received his education.
Visiting Tuckahoe
Located at 12601 River Road just outside Richmond, Tuckahoe Plantation was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1969. Although the home is currently privately owned, it is open to the public for tours.
You can take a self-guided tour of the house and grounds for only $5.00 per person. Guided tours are also available; contact the house tour guide by phone to learn more or schedule a tour. It is also possible to reserve the grounds for private events.
Visit the house in spring to see the rambling gardens in full bloom, or in fall to see the trees around the property changing color. Be sure to check for upcoming events on the Tuckahoe Plantation facebook page as well. The house hosts numerous annual events, including Thomas Jefferson's Birthday Bash in April, and Haunted History in October.
Contact us today to learn more about life in Richmond, VA. Finding your dream home to make it yours. Our real estate agents are committed to helping you live your best life in Richmond, VA.