Date Archives: September 2019

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. 

Napier Realtors ERA is proud to announce that with your help, we've raised over $27,000 for VCU Massey Cancer Center and Connor's Heroes Foundation with Music for Massey 2019! You may have joined us in July for a night of music with Bruce Hornsby and Amos Lee – and these are the results of all the fun we had! 

Supporting our community is at the heart of Napier ERA's values.

Thank you to Dr. John McCarty, MD, Director of Cellular Immunotherapies and Transplants and Dr. Gordon D. Ginder MD, Director of the VCU Massey Cancer Center for being open to fun ways to raise money for childhood cancer research!

There are some exciting evolutions brewing in the Scott's Addition area. A brewing industry is emerging, giving the "big boys" of beer a run for their money. Sit back and enjoy a cold brew with your friends as you discuss Richmond homes for sale. We recommend these incredible breweries in Scott's Addition. 

• Vasen Brewing - 3331 Moore Street, Richmond, VA 23230
  If you love European style beers, you are going to fall head over heels for this Swedish treat. Vasen Brewing relies on locally sourced goods to create an eco-friendly brew. 

• Buskey Cider - 2910 W. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23230
  There's something sweet about a summertime cider in Virginia. For the past three years, the team at Buskey Cider has honed their craft and offers one of the best ciders. At the heart of each recipe are delicious Virginia apples, giving each glass of cider the right amount of southern sass.

• Blue Bee Cider - 1320 Summit Avenue, Richmond, VA 23230
  Known for using traditional techniques and recipes to craft their cider, the busy bees down in the lab at Blue Bee Cider are turning their eyes towards the future and experimenting with ciders infused with raspberries and blackberries. Plus, some brews feature Colorado hops to give it a kick.

• The Veil Brewing, Co. - 1301 Roseneath Road, Richmond, VA 23230
  If you love the taste of hops and want a barrel-aged beer guaranteed to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, then you will love the beers at The Veil Brewing Co.  

• Cirrus Vodka - 1603 Ownby Lane, Richmond, VA 23220
  If you think the best vodka comes out of Sweden or Russia, you are in for a surprise. The best of the best is at Cirrus Vodka where their artisan creations are some of the best in the nation.

• Castleburg Brewery - 1626 Ownby Lane, Richmond, VA 23220
  What started with a home brewing kit has grown into one of the best beer companies in Virginia. All it takes is one visit to Castleburg Brewery, and there's a good bet you are signing up for their mug club and enlisting with the Knights of Malta to defend the brewer's secrets with your pals.

• Courthouse Creek - 3300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23230
  The cider garden and outdoor patio are the most popular places in Richmond for a summer evening. You will fall in love with the custom-crafted ciders at Courthouse Creek and the top-notch service with every glass.

• Ardent Craft Ales - 3200 W. Leigh Street, Richmond, VA 23230
  Supported by one of the strongest brewing teams in Richmond, Ardent Craft Ales is determined to deliver the finest quality with each batch of brew. From pilsners and IPA's to porters and stouts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Contact us to discuss the Richmond homes for sale we have available. It's our pleasure to help you find a home that is close to the schools, parks, shopping, and breweries you enjoy. 

Ask any long-time resident, and you'll hear the many perks of shopping for Richmond homes for sale. There's so much to love about living in the city, and Richmond's many great suburbs. The area has been growing at a rapid pace, including the diverse suburbs surrounding the town. National Virginia Day, takes place every September 14 and is the perfect excuse to see what Richmond's suburbs have to offer. Our real estate agents know Richmond, and we've got the details on 3 of the city's best suburbs to call home.

Richmond Suburbs to Check Out for Your Next Home

• Midlothian Is a Popular Place to Settle Down and Scale-Up
  Whether you're looking for luxury real estate or the perfect place for a family, Midlothian homes for sale have something for you. Midlothian is one of Richmond's most affluent suburbs, with a strong median household income and a huge selection of high-end properties. Midlothian ranks among Richmond's most popular suburbs, located in Chesterfield and a short drive west of the city.
  
  The scenic, tree-lined streets of Midlothian provide a peaceful backdrop for life in the community and continue to maintain their small-town charm even as the suburb expands. This historic community dates back to the 1700s. It's a great spot for lovers of history. Midlothian is also located close to key highways and interstates, so you'll have no trouble reaching any destination.

• Why Glen Allen Is a Favorite Spot for Families
  Looking for an up-and-coming neighborhood with tons to do? Glen Allen, located in northwest Henrico County, is one of Richmond's fastest-growing suburbs. The area has been developed extensively in recent years, offering many places to shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment. Some of your favorite national chains have locations in Glen Allen, and there's sure to be more as this neighborhood grows.
  
  Families love Glen Allen homes for sale, because the area is safe, has strong schools, and features fun for all ages. Many of the homes in this suburb are located in new housing developments, featuring tons of amenities for residents. Glen Allen's proximity to the city makes it easy to experience all Richmond has to offer and explore the other vibrant suburbs.

• Country Living Close to the City in Goochland
  If you want to enjoy the perks of living near the big city without giving up the joys of country living, then Goochland homes for sale might be for you. Located over 30 miles west of the city, Goochland offers all the benefits of small-town life, with large, open properties, plenty of outdoor space, and a tight-knit community. Find a home on a large acreage, or shop in one of many suburban residential developments.
  
  This suburb is especially popular with anyone who loves equestrian activities, with loads of horse farms and horse-friendly properties available. When you're in the mood for urban adventures make the quick trip to Richmond to explore.

Ready to get serious about shopping for a home in Richmond's suburbs? Our team is here. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the area.