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Come for a Tour
Hardin William Reynolds |
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Nancy Cox Reynolds |
The
Reynolds Homestead is the birthplace and boyhood home of tobacco manufacturer
R. J. Reynolds. Built in 1843, the two-story brick house has been
restored to its nineteenth century state and includes many of the
original family furnishings. The 717 acre homestead was deeded to
Virginia Tech and authentically restored in 1970. The home of Hardin
William and Nancy Cox Reynolds is one of the significant historical
attractions of Piedmont Virginia. It has been designated a State and
National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Registry
of American Homes.
The
descendents of Hardin and Nancy Reynolds brought together many of
the original heirlooms that had been passed down through the years.
The estate is filled with possessions which tell the story of life
in the nineteenth century. The Homestead includes the historic house,
grounds, two cemeteries, and several outbuildings.
Hardin
Reynolds was a successful farmer, merchant, banker and tobacco manufacturer.
He and his descendants have influenced the economic and cultural growth
of the United States particularly in the South through their business
successes and philanthropy. Reynolds' interest in tobacco led several
of his sons into the business including Richard Joshua Reynolds, founder
of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. William Neal and Walter joined
their brother in the company. Their elder brother Abram David Reynolds
manufactured tobacco in Bristol, VA, and his son Richard Samuel, Sr.
founded Reynolds Metals in Richmond, VA.
The house is open for tours Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the months of April through October, tours are also available on weekends from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $2 for adults and $1 for children. Group tours are welcome. |
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