Scotchtown

Commonwealth Architects was contracted to compile a Historic Structure Report (HSR) for Scotchtown, an APVA Preservation Virginia property in Hanover County, VA. Best known as the home of Patrick Henry during the turbulent years leading up the American Revolution, Scotchtown is of a scale and sophistication that could offer a glimpse into the aspirations of its builders and early owners.

Due to a 1717 land grant and the requirement that construction begin within two years of such grants, Scotchtown, built on the edge of the then frontier wilderness, has long been assumed to date from circa 1719.

The HSR summarized all that could be gleaned from a detailed investigation conducted by our staff of architectural historians and preservationists. Resources included documentary (both primary and secondary) sources about the property, including historical maps, illustrations and photographs. Based on these findings, the team worked out the evolution of the structure across five periods of construction as shown in the renderings above.

Commonwealth Architects also provided an architectural description and a condition assessment of the exterior and interior of Scotchtown’s main house. This included an analysis of existing conditions, damage, structural problems, and material deterioration. A detailed discussion of the needs for architectural conservation was also be provided.

Based on existing conditions, recommendations for necessary work including priorities, phasing, and estimated costs were provided in addition to a list of requirements for future ongoing and cyclical maintenance needs for the property.