park national register of historic places registration form · united states department of the...

United States Department of the Interior National Park Service

National Register of Historic Registration Form

Places

This form is for use In nomlnatlng or ;questing determ~nations of eligibility for mdividual properties or districts. See ~nstructions in Guidelines for Completing National Regrster Forms (National Register Bulletin 16). Complete each item by markmg "x" in the appropriate box or by entering the requested information. If an rtem does not apply to the p r o m being documented, enter "NIA" for "not applicable." For functions, styles, materials. and areas of sign~ficance, enter only the categories and subcategories listed in the instructions. For additional space use continuation sheets (Form 10-ma). Type all entries.

1. Name of Property historic name Samuel Gwinn Plantation other namedsite number O l d Brick Farm

2. Location street 8 number County Koute 15 /J not for publication N / A city, town Lowell IX/ vicinity

state Nest Virginia code 54 county Summers code 089 zip code 24962

3. Classification Ownership of Property Category of Property Number of Resources within Property I private building@) Contributing Noncontributing C] public-local district 7 2 buildings C] public-State site 1 sites C] public-Federal structure 1 structures

object objects 8 3 Total

Name of related multiple property listing: Number of contributing resources previously N / A listed in the National Register N / A

4. StatelFederal Agency Certification

As the designated authority under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, I hereby certify that this nomination request for determination of eligibility meets the documentation standards for registering properties in the

National Register of Historic Places and meets the procedural and professional requirements set forth in 36 CFR Part 60. e National Register criteria. C] See

Signature of certifyi I

Date

I J

State or Federal &ncy and bureau

I In my opinion, the property n m e e t s m d o e s not meet the National Register criteria. See continuation sheet.

Signature of commenting or other official Date I State or Federal agency and bureau

5. National Park Service Certification I, hereby, certify that this property is:

C] entered in the National Register. C] See continuation sheet.

Odetermined eligible for the National Register. C] See continuation sheet.

ndetermined not eligible for the National Register.

removed from the National Register. other, (explain:)

Signature of the Keeper Date of Action

6. Functlon or Use Historic Functions (enter categories from instructions) Current Functions (enter categories from instructions)

stlc: Single dwellina Domestic: Single dwkllin~ _agriculture Agriculture: Agricultural outbuildings miculture: Aericulture field Agriculture Field

7. Description Architectural Classification (enter categories from instructions)

Materials (enter categories from instructions)

foundation Rock-faced hard limestone Mid 19th Centurv: walls solid brick - interior & exterior

In£ 1uenr.e roof as~halt/fiber glass shingles other wood side and front ~iazza

Describe present and historic physical appearance.

Domestic/single dwelling: (Manor House) Key #1 (circa 1868) C

secondary structures: Meat curing house Key #6 (circa 1770) C

Necessary house Key #2 (circa 1925) NC

Carriage House Key #5 (circa 1868) C

Delco House Key #3 (circa 1910) C

Ice House Key #4 (circa 1868) C

Agricultural

Storage Granary Key #7 (circa 1910) NC

Storage Granary foundation Key #11 (circa 1910) NC

Agricultural field Pasture Key #8 (circa 1800 to present) C

Agricultural Building Machinery Barn Key #9 (circa 1900) C

Forge Key #10 (circa 1868) C

See continuation sheet

United Statea Department of the Interior National Park Service

National Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet

Section number 7 Page 2

(B) P r e s e n t D e s c r i p t i o n : Yanor House (Sketch-Sheet Key #1 ; d i m e n s i o n s : 40' x 50 ' )

The Manor House is a l a r g e ( 1 1 room), two s t o r y b r i c k Greek R e v i v a l w i t h I t a l i a n a t e i n f l u e n c e d w e l l i n g and is a f i n e example of t h e t r a n s i t i o n between t h e s t y l e s . I t i s a f i v e - b a y , two s t o r y s t r u c t u r e w i t h u n u s u a l J e r k i n head o r c l i p p e d - g a b l e r o o f , ( b e l i e v e d t o be o r i g i n a l ) . Each l e v e l h a s a n i d e n t i c a l four-room c e n t r a l h a l l f l o o r p l a n . The o v e r a l l l a y o u t is "L" shaped w i t h a one s t o r y k i t c h e n l g r e a t room a t t h e r e a r .

The c o n s t r u c t i o n d a t e i s c i r c a 1868. The s t r u c t u r e is of s o l i d b r i c k , common bond w i t h e v e r y 6 t h c o u r s e a s t r a i g h t h e a d e r . A l l e x t e r i o r and i n t e r i o r walls a r e b r i c k l o a d b e a r i n g . The b r i c k s were f i r e d on t h e p r o p e r t y from c l a y removed from t h e c e l l a r . The f o u n d a t i o n i s rock-faced h a r d l i m e s t o n e . I t was commissioned by "Long Andy" Gwinn and was c o n s t r u c t e d by S i l a s F. T a y l o r , d e s i g n e r and b r i c k mason.

V i c t o r i a n po rches ( p i a z z a ) r u n t h e f u l l l e n g t h of t h e f r o n t of t h e house a t bo th t h e f i r s t and s e c o n d s t o r i e s . The re are s i x r e c t a n g u l a r columns e m b e l l i s h e d w i t h p i e r c e d b r a c k e t s . The f i v e b a y s i n c l u d e a s i n g l e "Greek R e v i v a l " e n t r a n c e w i t h t r ansom, s i d e , and c o r n e r l i g h t s . The same d e s i g n i s r e p e a t e d on t h e second s t o r y b u t t o a s l i g h t l y smaller s c a l e . The 2 1 windows, e a c h w i t h a segmented a r c h , i n c l u d e t h e o r i g i n a l s h u t t e r ha rdware . The p r e s e n t owner h a s s e c u r e d p e r i o d s h u t t e r s which have n o t as y e t been hung ( p a n e l e d 1st l e v e l ; a d j u s t a b l e l o u v e r e d 2nd) .

The re i s a one s t o r y open s i d e p o r c h on t h e West , o r r i v e r s i d e o f t h e home. The manor house f a c e s n o r t h w i t h b e a u t i f u l v i ews of t h e G r e e n b r i e r R i v e r t o t h e West and Nor th .

The c e n t r a l h a l l s i n c l u d e a s t r a i g h t s t a i r c a s e r i s i n g t o t h e upper l e v e l a l o n g t h e west i n n e r wall . The o p e n - s t r i n g s t a i r c a s e h a s t u r n e d b a l u s t e r s and a handsome wa lnu t h a n d r a i l . The i n t e r i o r woodwork i s g e n e r a l l y p l a i n w i t h a r c h i t r a v e door t r i m and f o u r p a n e l e d d o o r s . The lower h a l l i n c l u d e s c l o s e d ped imen t s o v e r e a c h doorway and l a r g e crown molding i n t h e h a l l w a y s and s e v e r a l rooms. A l l d o o r s h a v e i r o n box l o c k s , b u t one door h a s a n e l a b o r a t e c a r v e d r e l i e f b r a s s box lock . S e v e r a l o f t h e i n t e r i o r d o o r s r e t a i n t h e i r

~ & e d States k p a r t ~ n t of the Interior National Park Service



Describe present and historic physical appearance.

(A) Summary

The property is comprised of a large brick Manor House with eleven rooms and three porches constructed circa 1868; and in addition, eight outbuildings circa 1770-1910. It encompasses approximately four acres on a promontory overlooking the Greenbrier River, 75 feet below. A local landmark, it is set in a scenic rural location amidst a general and cattle agricultural area. The property is at the western terminus of the Piedmont country before the ascendancy of the more mountainous plateau of Central Southern West Virginia.

The original land grant of this property was to Samuel Gwinn Sr., who along with James Graham (who settled just across the river) were the first permanent settlers of Summers County in 1770. Samuel constructed a large 20 x 25 two story log house which was located 300 yards south of the subject Manor House. The existing Manor House was build by his Grandson, "Long Andyv Gwinn, the county's wealthiest man. The log house was dismantled in the 1960's by the Gwinns and utilized in the construction of the Savannah Inn at Lewisburg. The site is still visible but it is not included in this property nomination. Due to successful tobacco, and later cattle farming, the Gwinn holdings were expanded in the 18th and early 19th centuries to include a 2000 acre plantation. This acreage is contiguous and currently surrounds the property. In the 20th century the family divided their land holdings into two large farms which they currently operate, and the subject property was sold outside the family for the first time in over 200 years.

The term "Manor House" is used for two reasons. (1) It was the residence of the owner of the largest cash crop plantation (tobacco) and the richest man in the county and (2) its substantial appearance, size, and prominent location led the local population to refer to it as a "mansion" or "Manor House".




original hand-painted grain finish in excelient condition.

Historic Description - Manor House (Contributing) The house still appears much as it did when constructed circa 1868. A change was made in the Manor House's frontal appearance about 1895. Originally the front porch was a single-bay, one story structure with a deck and railing above, somewhat Federal in style. The existing double front porches across the entire front are a relatively common vernacular adaptation. An interesting feature still exists under these porches. At the time the porches were added the entire structure's brick-work was painted red. To cause the mortar joints to stand out visually, they were hand-painted with straight white lines. Because of the protection from weathering afforded by the porches, these paint lines are still well preserved today.

When the house was converted to central heat, about 1930, several changes were made, one of which affects the external appearance also. Two inside-end chimneys (each with four flues) were removed at a level just below the attic floor. In the two parlors, on the first floor and in two bedrooms on the second, the fireplaces were covered with plaster. The fireplaces in the other rooms and their original mantels remain, although they are no longer functional. At about this same time, the original metal roof was converted to asphalt shingles.

Originally the house included five bedrooms, four on the upper floor and one for "Long Andy" on the lower. The lower bedroom has become a library and its two original "clothes presses'' at each side of the chimney breast were converted to bookcases and enclosed cabinets. One of the upper bedrooms was converted to a bathroom in 1930.

Outbuildings: Historic and Present Usage (see Sketch Map)

(Key # 2 ) Necessary House (Non-contributing) Dimensions 4' x 4'

This is of wood frame construction, plain board and batten sheathing; and is a "one seater" with unusual side vents. It was constructed circa 1925. In 1930 indoor plumbing

Unlted States Department of tbe Interlor National Park Service



was installed in the house and it is assumed from its location it was used for the "hands" use. Currently it is in occasional use. It has a shed style roof with asphalt shingles. Falls outside the period of significance.

(Key #3) "Delco House" - Contributing 12'.2" x 107.4"

A private electric generating capability was added to the property circa 1910. The machinery included a motor, generator and batteries. The engine pads are still in existence. It has horizontal weatherboard sheathing with a tin raised-seam roof. It currently serves as a storage for garden tools and supplies.

(Key #4) Ice House - Contributing 14'.8" x 14'.2"

Construction circa 1900 utilizing round head nails. Has tin raised seam roof and horizontal weatherboard sheathing. The Gwinn's deepened the channel in the Greenbrier River directly below with dynamite to slow its flow and facilitate freezing (also served as their I I swimming hole" in summer). May be one of few remaining ice houses in area. Currently used to store lumber.

(Key #5) Carriage House - Contributing 17' x 26'

Frame construction with cut nails circa 1860's. Sheathed in plain boards and batten sides with a tin raised seam roof. Has wooden floor and remnants of harness, side saddle, etc. Currently used as a garage.

(Key #6) Meat House - Contributing 14' x 14'

Constructed of squared logs with "full saddle notches". Use of hand forged nails (clinched on the door) lead to the conclusion that this building was part of the original Samuel Gwinn Sr. homestead of 1770 - 1839. Door also has cast iron butt hinges and a Norfolk lock (1800-1830). Has tin raised seam roof. Currently used for storage.

(Key #7) Granary - con-contributing 10f.5" diameter

This building is all metal with poured concrete floor in very good condition. Ruins of a second one of identical size are located close to the machinery barn. Construction

Unlt.d States Oepnrtrnent of the Interior National Park Service



estimated to be circa 1920's. Currently used for storage of period shutters to be installed on Manor Xouse at a future date.

(Key #8) Agricultural fields. - Contributing 3 acres

The Manor House is surrounded by a plank fence which itself is surrounded by approximately 3 acres of pasture. Current use is pasture for several horses.

(Key #9) Machinery Barn - Contributing 26' x 17'

Circa 1900 this building with pole construction, plain board and batten siding and tin raised seam roof was added. It is currently used for its original function.

(Key #lo) Forge - Contributing 18'.5" x 16'.5"

Frame constructed circa 1860's with cut nails. Original heavy workbenches and supplies remain. Has raised-seam tin roof and is sheathed in plain board and batten siding.

(Key #11) Granary Foundation - non contributing At least two granary's were constructed. In the 19601s, possibly when the Gwinn's sold Sam Sr's log house, the metal structure was removed and sold.

- . w ~ r w of gknlticllm '- cm(0.nd m M n m of thU popw In nktlon to other properti:

o n a t ~ ~ y 0 d . t ~ m k ~ a l ~ y

N.tbrul Register Crltrri. - d w n m (enter categodes from Instruct l~) Period of Signin- SlgnMcant Dltoa ~~~l~ration/settlement 1770 - 1913 1770cdzind-t Architecture 1 % 8 ~ ~ b u i l t ~ ~ r i c u l t u r e 1913 bath of A. G w i m

-- .- Pre History to History Nonaboriginal

Cultural Affiliation N/A

Significant Person Archit- Gwinn. Samuel (Sr) Tavlor. Silas F. Gwinn, Samuel (Jr) Gwinn. Andrew (Lone Andv)

State significance of property, and justify criteria, criteria considerations, and areas and periods of significance noted above.

The Samuel Gwinn Plantation is significant because it consists of locally important associated resources that date from the period of settlement of the region, c. 1770, to the death of A. Gwinn, 1913, a span of time witnessing the agricultural development of the valley and growth of the operation to include a variety of important buildings, such as the Gwinn "manor house." The complex meets Criterion A because it is closely associated with the local pattern of agricultural land use, particularly tobacco farming. Criterion B also applies because the district is associated with the lives of persons, in this instance several patriarchs of the Gwinn family, who contributed to the first permanent settlement and general prosperity of Summers County and its section of the Greenbrier River Valley. The Gwinn Plantation meets Criterion C inasmuch as its buildings reflect distinctive characteristics of a type, such as the early log building, and work of a master. The large brick farmhouse was constructed by one Silas F. Taylor, a local master builder.

m ~ e e continuation sheet

United Stater Department of the Interior National Park Service


Section number 8 Page

types in the county. It is the largest, and the only one of brick construction with the vernacular wood piazza.

Broader Patterns

One of the significant aspects of this property is the contribution it makes to the broader patterns of history and culture. The James Graham House (NRHP) just across the river represents the earliest pioneer homestead (1770) of the frontier settlement period of the second half of the 18th Century. On the other hand, the Gwinn Plantation represents other, and perhaps ultimate phases in the development of rural life in the period. The two properties are very closely linked historically, culturally, and socially. The Gwinn property represents the phase that evolved from (1) limited to expanded land holdings, (2) subsistence to commercial agriculture, and (3) pioneer to more sophisticated dwelling places. Viewed from the perspective of their common heritage and close familial and geographic associations, the two properties contribute much to our knowledge and understanding of the first 150 years of rural history in this region.

Archeology:

Prehistoric, Historic-Aboriginal, and Historic- Non-Aboriginal artifacts have been discovered on this property. The site, located on a promontory above the river, is surrounded by gently sloping lands in all directions, yet is only 150 yards from the Greenbrier River. It would seem to be a convenient and defensible location for a Native American campsite. Tradition holds that in fact it served that function. Numerous stone artifacts have been found. An amateur archeologist did some very limited diggings about 15 years ago and found a death mask.

From a historic standpoint, the property.has been an agriculture site for approximately 218 years. The two Samuel Gwinns farmed there and "Long Andy" located the plantation buildings there when he built the Manor House in 1868.

Both prehistoric and historic archeology potential on the nominated property appears outstanding.

Untted State8 Department of the Interior National Park Service



( A ) Summary Paragraphs

Historical Events:

This property was settled circa 1770 by Samuel Gwinn Sr. who along with James Graham established the first permanent settlement in the Summers County area. This immediate vicinity was the focus of numerous and significant Indian attacks during the period 1763-1780.

Individuals:

Samuel Gwinn Sr., during the period 1771-1776, was a scout and spy on the frontier in the Indian wars and fought in the Battle of Point Pleasant. Beyond his original holdings, over the years he obtained and cleared additional tracts of land and established the beginnings of a successful frontier plantation. His will included nine slaves.

Samuel Gwinn Jr. continued the agricultural development and expansion of the acreage. He lived in his father's original log house initially accepting from his father a gift of half of a 300 acre parcel. Several years later, he purchased the remainder from a brother. More acreage was subsequently added. Tobacco was the cash crop.

Andrew Gwinn ("Long Andy"), Samuel Jr's son carried on the traditions adding contiguous lands to a total of 2000 acres. He became the "wealthiest farmer" in Summers County and its first Sheriff.

Silas F. Taylor was a notable regional designerlbuilder of fine brick homes and buildings. "Long Andy'' retained him to build the Manor House.

Architecture:

The property's existent "Manor House" built by "Long Andy" in 1868, was the largest and most elegant in the area. It was constructed b y the area's "Master Builder'' Silas Taylor who utilized bricks made from clay removed from the cellar excavation and baked on the premises. The architecture was originally Greek Revival with Federal influences. Circa 1895, Italianate piazza were added across the front, at the first and second levels. The home is one of the more unique

United State8 Oepartment of the Interior National Park Service


Sectionnumber 8 Page 3

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

( A ) H i s t o r i c a l E v e n t s :

A l o n g w i t h J a m e s G r a h a m , S a m u e l G w i n n S r . w a s t h e f i r s t p e r m a n e n t s e t t l e r i n t h e a r e a ( L o w e l l / P e n c e S p r i n g s t o d a y ) . " I t w a s g e n e r a l l y b e l i e v e d t h a t t h i s s e t t l e m e n t , w h e n m a d e b y C o l . G r a h a m was o n e o f t h e f i r s t m a d e i n t h i s i m m e d i a t e r e g i o n , i f n o t t h e v e r y f i r s t . " ( M i l l e r p . 4 9 ) . " A b o u t t h e y e a r 1 7 7 0 o r p o s s i b l y a l i t t l e l a t e r , J a m e s G r a h a m w i t h h i s f a m i l y moved t o t h e G r e e n b r i e r R i v e r a n d s e t t l e d i n w h a t i s now S u m m e r s C o u n t y " ( G r a h a m p . 4 1 ) . " A b o u t t h e s a m e t ime t h a t G r a h a m s e t t l e d n e a r L o w e l l , S a m u e l a n d J a m e s G w i n n , t w o b r o t h e r s s e t t l e d i n t h e s a m e s e c t i o n , T h e G r a h a m s a n d G w i n n s w e r e n e i g h b o r s o n t h e C a l f P a s t u r e R i v e r i n V i r g i n i a b e f o r e t h e y e m i g r a t e d , a n d b o t h h a d s a i l e d f r o m I r e l a n d t o g e t h e r . " ( M i l l e r p . 5 0 ) .

I n h i s b o o k , D a v i d G r a h a m s t a t e s t h a t h i s a n c e s t o r s c a m e f r o m n o b l e s t o c k a n d t h a t seems s o m e w h a t e v i d e n t f r o m h i s g e n e a l o g y r e s e a r c h a n d d e s c r i p t i o n s i n h i s e a r l y c h a p t e r s . ( G r a h a m p . 1 0 ) . B u t a t l e a s t i n t h i s c o u n t r y , i t w o u l d s e e m m o r e p r o b a b l e t h a t t h e y a n d t h e G w i n n s , i n t h e i r s u c c e s s f u l p u r s u i t o f l a n d , f o l l o w e d a m o r e t y p i c a l p a t t e r n . " T h u s f r o m e a r l y t i m e s t h e r e e x i s t e d i n V i r g i n i a , s i d e b y s i d e w i t h t h e p l a n t e r c l a s s , a n d s h a r p l y d i s t i n c t f r o m i t , a s e r v i l e l a b o r i n g c l a s s w h i c h f o r m s a l a r g e p a r t o f t h e t o t a l p o p u l a t i o n . Many o f t h e s e i n t i m e , a c q u i r e d c a p i t a l , b o u g h t l a n d , a n d j o i n e d t h e p l a n t e r c l a s s . O t h e r s , f o l l o w i n g t h e i r t e r m s o f i n d e n t u r e , m o v e d t o t h e f r o n t i e r . " ( A m b l e r p . 6 3 ) . " R o b e r t G w i n n S r . , S a m u e l S r . ' s f a t h e r , o w n e d l a n d a d j o i n i n g t h e l a n d o f J o h n G r a h a m o n t h e C a l f P a s t u r e , b o u g h t o n J u l y 1 7 , 1 7 4 5 . " ( L o n g , Nov 1 5 , 1 9 7 9 ) . When t h e y m o v e d t o t h e f r o n t i e r , James G r a h a m s e t t l e d o n t h e " N o r t h " s i d e o f t h e G r e e n b r i e r R i v e r a n d h i s f r i e n d S a m u e l Gwinn S r . s e t t l e d j u s t a c r o s s f r o m h i m . E a c h s i d e o f t h e G r e e n b r i e r a t t h e s e p o i n t s w e r e b l e s s e d w i t h b o t t o m l a n d s , f e r t i l e f l o o d p l a i n s , a n d r o l l i n g m e a d o w s , v e r y s u i t a b l e f o r e v e n t u a l c l e a r i n g a n d p l a n t i n g .

T h i s i m m e d i a t e v i c i n i t y , d u e t o t h e i n c r e a s i n g

United State8 Department of the Interlor National Park Service

National Register of Historic Continuation Sheet


"concentration" of settlers was the focus of Indian attacks during the period 1763 - 1780:

"There was a first farm" (James Hill Farm) down river from Alderson (toward Lowell) on the Greenbrier which was attacked by Indians circa 1763 - all lives were lost save one very small girl." (Miller p 41). "In the 1770's Jarretts Fort was constructed in Summers County on the Greenbrier at Newman's Ferry near what is now Alderson." (Miller p 41).

"There was a fort erected on the opposite side of the river from the Graham House (or on the Gwinn side) where Spotts Hotel now stands (raised in 1985), known as Graham's Fort." (Graham p 49). This was built between 1770 and 1777 since it figured in the latter dated attack by Indians.

The Graham homestead was attacked by Indians in the Spring of 1777. A man from the Fort, Mr. McDonald or Caldwell, a negro servant named Sharp, and 10 year old John Graham were killed. Seven year old Elizabeth Graham was captured. (Graham p 89). She was a hostage for 8 years and ransomed for the equivalent of $300 in silver.

Indians killed a Ms. Butler or Massey in 1778 or 1779, across the Greenbrier from Talcott. (Formerly Rollynsburg Ferry Miller p 736). This is less than a mile from the Samuel Gwinn Plantation.

The history of Patents or Grants and sale and exchange of eventual Gwinn Plantation land is also of significance:

"The land titles of the whole of the county were derived from the Commonwealth by these grants, commonly known as "patents", issued by the governor. Prior to the date of the Revolutionary War the titles were derived from the Crown of England by grants from the king, but there are no Crown grants in Summers County, unless the 100,000 acres granted to the Greenbrier Company lies in this county. This grant was prior to 1776. (Miller p 252).

"The earliest land grant of which we have knowledge

United State8 Department of tho Intarlor National Park Sewice


Section number Page 5

is for a tract of land on the mountain between the mouth of Greenbrier River and Wolf Creek. It was issued by Thomas Jefferson in 1779. The claim for the land was laid in 1772, four years before the Declaration of Independence." (Miller p. 252). Underlining supplied.

"The first grant of land to Samuel Gwinn was by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, in the year 1796, and was for a tract o? land on Greenbrier River, on which Andrew Gwinn, with his son James, now resides. I have examined a number of patents for lands in that neighborhood to Samuel Gwinn and others, which are all ancient documents, written in elegant handwriting on the dressed skin of some animal, and are in a perfect state of preservation. Mr. Andrew Gwinn has some eight or ten of these old documents, which he prizes very highly." (Miller p. 657).

An earlier patent was issued by Edmund Randolph, dated 10th day of December, 1787:

"Edmund Randolph, Esq., Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. To all whom these presents shall come (the 'sf being in the shape of an ' f ' ) greeting: Know ye, that by virtue of a certificate in , of settlement given by the commissioners for adjusting the titles to unpatented lands, in the District of Augusta, Botetourt and Greenbrier, and by consideration of the ancient composition of 2 Pounds sterling, paid by Samuel Gwinn, into the treasury of the Commonwealth, there is granted by the said Commonwealth unto the said Samuel Gwinn, assignee of James Henderson, a certain tract or parcel of land containing 400 acres by survey, bearing the date the first day of June 1784, lying and being in the




county of Greenbrier, beginning, etc."(Miller p 66i).

"Another of these patents is to James Gwinn, and is issued by Edmund Randolph, on the 8th day of November 1787, and of the Commonwealth the twelfth, which is consideration of the ancient composition of 2 pounds sterling, paid by James Gwinn into the treasury. He was granted 400 acres by survey, living in the county of Greenbrier, on Little Wolf Creek, adjoining the lands of John Dickinson." (Miller p 661).

"Thomas N. Randolph, Governor of Virginia, granted to Samuel Gwinn November 1, 1821, thirty-one acres. James Monroe, Governor of Virginia, and afterwards President of the United States, granted to Samuel Gwinn, December 2, 1800 five acres. John M. Gregory Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, granted to Ephraim J. Gwinn, August 30, 1842, twenty-one acres. On July 31, 1779, John Osborne conveyed to Samuel Gwinn, for five shillings, 245 acres." (Miller p 658).

"Edmond Randolph, Governor of said State, on the 10th of December 1787, issued his patent unto Samuel Gwinn for 400 acres by virtue of survey made on the 1st of June, 1784, on the south side of Greenbrier River adjoining Henry Jones and John Van Bibber". (Miller p 256). "Another tract of 95 acres was patented to Samuel Gwinn by Governor James Pleasant, on the 2d day of April, 1824. Governor Edmond Randolph issued his patent to Samuel Gwinn for one of the tracts near Lowell, on the 18th day of March 1789." (Miller p 658).

"Claypool seems to have been an original patentee, John Osborne and others conveying the property to said Samuel Gwinn of Monroe County, and the price paid was five shillings. The Claypool patent was dated in 1793, for 250 acres." (Miller p 657).

"James Wood, Governor of said Commonwealth, on the 20th day of January, 1798, issued his grant unto Samuel Gwinn for 220 acres adjoining William Graham." (Miller p 256).

United States Department of the Interior National Park Sewice



There are also records of land exchanges involving the Gwinn Plantation through sale or exchange:

"Deed between Samuel Gwinn, Sr., and Samuel Gwinn, Jr., dated on the 26th day of October, 1807, by which is conveyed three different tracts of land on Greenbrier River near Lowell. The signature of Samuel Gwinn is witnessed by 0. Tolles, Joseph Alderson, John Gwinn and George Alderson; was admitted to record at the December court of Monroe County, 1807; attested by Isaac Hutchinson, C.T." (Miller p 661).

"I have another deed which is signed by Samuel Gwinn, the father of Andrew Gwinn, when he was eighty-four years old, and it is well-written. It is witnessed by Joseph Alderson, George Alderson, John Gwinn, and 0. Towles, and bears date the 26th day of October 1811, and is a conveyance from Samuel Gwinn, Sr., to his son, Samuel Gwinn, Jr., who was a brother of Andrew Gwinn, Jr., and died only a short time ago." (Miller p 663).

"On the 31st day of July, 1779, John Osborne sold to Samuel Gwinn for five shillings, 245 acres at Green Sulphur. Samuel Gwinn conveyed these lands to his son, E. J. Gwinn, as a gift on the 20th of October 1829." (Miller p 253) . "All of these are title papers and are as in good state of preservation as when issued; are written on parchment, some kind of skin; the writing is excellent, plain and legible. One of the patents especially, I notice, came from an animal, and the holes made by taking out the legs still remain on the margin, and another hole in it made by taking the hide off the animal. It is unevenly trimmed, but all of them are finely dressed. We seldom see in these days and times better handwriting than that exhibited on these wonderful old documents." (Miller p 662).

"These lands are now principally, if not altogether, owned by Andrew Gwinn (Builder of the 1868 Manor House) of Lowell." (Miller p 256).




All these lands and others accumulated by the Gwinn's are comprised of 2000 acres surrounding the nominated property and are currently farmed by direct Gwinn heirs.

TOBACCO PLANTATION

It is clear from the foregoing the Gwinn's, Samuel Sr. through the lifetime of Andrew, more than any other family in the region, prospered in the acquisition of lands and the development of agriculture. Records indicate Samuel Sr., acquired some 1000 acres and these were subsequently extended by Samuel Jr., and Andrew during their lifetimes.

Mary Gwinn Nelson was born on the plantation in the Manor House and lived on it her entire 94 years. She told the author that her father "Long Andy" had often and at length described the early plantation days, and the size of the operation. "It was not unusual," he had said, "that 40 hands would be engaged in their agricultural and related operations." The Gwinn's pulled far ahead of their friends and neighbors, the Grahams in prosperity. Col. James Graham's will of 1 8 1 2 lists only one slave. We know from Samuel Sr.'s will that he owned 9 slaves at his death. The Gwinn's acquired large land holdings. Mary indicated that "the Gwinn's brought in the first horse drawn machinery." Over the years and up until this day they have been innovators in agricultural technology. In Col. Graham's will, he makes several references to his "plantation". (Miller p 789). Finally, Miller, in describing the origin of the name of the mountain behind the property states," ... Gwinns Mountain behind the property, after Andrew Gwinn who owned a magnificent piantation at its base." (Miller p 3 5 2 ) .

The documentation on tobacco culture in the immediate area is significant. "There was in the early days quite a profitable industry from which farmers and merchants derived quite a considerable income - that of raising and transporting tobacco, which was cultivated quite extensively and successfully in Forest Hill and Pipestem and a part of Talcott (includes Lowell)." (Miller, p 5 8 ) .

Ambler, in his 1 9 3 3 History of West Virginia devotes a section to tobacco-culture (p 61-64.) "But of greater importance than any of these elements was the discovery



Section number - Page 9

of a crop that could be depended upon as a source of assured income. This was tobacco. Henceforth, for a century and a half, tobacco was the determining factor in the economic, social and political life of the colony. With lands practically free but uncleared, and with the demand for Virginia tobacco increasing annually, the greatest concern of the Virginia landowner was labor." He continues indicating the solution to obtaining this labor (ie clearing land and tobacco culture) was to engage indentured servants and subsequently slaves. "By 1730, the total Negro population had increased to more than thirty thousand, and Negro slavery had become an essential of the plantation systemtt. (Ambler p 64). "Because of the westward extension of tobacco culture and consequent increase of the slave population all parts of this area had tended toward economic unity." (Ambler p 212).

That "unity" continued up until and through the Civil War with this section of Virginia/West Virginia maintaining strong Confederate sympathies. No less than four Gwinn's: Harrison, Augustus, Marion, and Samuel (the former with Edgars Battalion and the other three with Thurmond's Rangers) fighting for the Confederacy (Miller p 215). (One of their confederate muskets is in the possession of the author, the current owner of Samuel Gwinn Plantation.) Long refers to "Long Andy's " confederate sympathies: "During the Civil War, he (Long Andy) had accumulated several thousand dollars of confederate money, rolls and rolls of fifty and hundred dollar bills." Long goes on to explain "that thereafter, Long Andy would deal only in gold and sllver coin!" (Long, April 30, 1980).

In an interview of the Honorable C. A. (Bud) Dunn, Lester Lively writes in the Hinton News about the Red Sulphur Turnpike which ran from that area, down Gwinn Mountain (now called Wind Creek) to Lowell. "In addition it was the avenue by which timber products and the products of a rich agricultural region were brought to the shipping point at Lowell. Tobacco was raised extensively in the area in years past which was packed in hogsheads and transported to the C&O for shipment to the markets." (Lively)

united States Department of the Interior National Park Service


Section number 8 Page lo

"Times change and the value of tobacco declined in the mid 19th Century." (Amber p 213). The Gwinns gradually shifted their agricultural production to general dairy and cattle farming, especially as the CbO Railroad was extended to Lowell and beyond in the later part of the century. A picture of an old log tobacco barn in Miller's Book is the only known remanent of that era. This is from the Talcott/Lowell district. ( Miller p 9.).

HISTORICAL INDIVIDUALS

Samuel Gwinn, Sr. - First settler (with James Graham). He was born in either 1745 or 1751, the former consistent with his headstone, the latter with his affidavit for a military pension. His father Robert Gwinn (or Gwynn) emigrated prior to 1742 from Ireland becoming a landowner and raising six sons. (Long, April 10, 1980). "Robert Gwinn owned land adjoining the land of John Graham on the Calf Pasture, bought on July 17, 1745. (Long, November 14, 1979). Samuel Gwinn, Sr. married Robert Graham's widow Elizabeth Lockridge Graham Gwinn (died 1794 and brother to Col. James) Before moving his wife to the frontier (she already had three children before R. Graham's death), Mr. Gwinn took two slaves to the new property, cleared land and built a cabin (300 yards to the south of the 1868 Manor House.) (Long, November 15, 1979). They eventually had 9 children who lived to marry, in addition to two surviving who remained in the custody of Andrew Lockridge, her father. Samuel Sr's land acquisition and farming accomplishments were documented above.

In addition, as might be expected, Samuel Sr. was heavily involved in the Indian Wars prior to and during the Revolution. His military record is documented in the National Archives. "Service: served as a guard on the frontiers against the Indian, at various times prior to the Revolutionary War from 1771 to 1774. .. was in the Battle of Point Pleasant under General Andrew Lewis and from 1776 served different times as scout and spy on the frontier." (Long, April 10, 1980). In his


Iational Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet

Section number 8, Page 11

own words he continues, "I was born in Augusta County, Virginia, I am in my 83rd year; was in the War of 1774; enlisted under Captain Gwinn and went to Point Pleasant where we had a severe battle with the Indians in 1776. I moved to Monroe County (Virginia, now Summers County, West Virginia) with my wife and children for a year or two and then moved to a block house because of the Indians. I returned to my cabin and to my hunting, although people of the settlement took their families to the fort in the summer months." (Long, April 10, 1980). He received a military pension on March 22, 1834, but a year later it was revoked on the basis that he did not serve in "an embodied military corps." (U.S. Archives March 9, 1835). Samuel Gwinn, Sr. died on March 25, 1839 at age 94. His will, dated June 4, 1832, is on record at the Greenbrier County Courthouse, West Virginia and lists in addition to other possessions, nine slaves: Tecumsey, Hiram, Jingo, David, Liews, Lisa Ann, Norris, Grisby and Lewis." (Long, November 22, 1979). Elizabeth, his wife had preceded him in death on January 25, 1832.

Samuel Gwinn, Jr. - Prosperous and Innovative Plantation Owner.

Samuel Jr. was born to Samuel Sr. and Elizabeth on October 22, 1777. He married Elizabeth Taylor on June 20, 1803. They had thirteen children. Samuel Jr. was born in the original log cabin (as was his son, "Long Andy"). Samuel Jr. was also a prosperous farmer receiving 150 acres from his father and later buying out at least one of his brothers and subsequently "moved into the large home his brother Andrew had built just after his service in the war of 1812". (Long March 22, 1980).

The fields were needing enhancement when Samuel Jr. had two large lime kilns build on the property about 200 yards to the west of the original log house. Limestone was blasted out of Wind Creek (below the log house site - several remaining drilled explosive holes may still be seen in the creek bed). The rocks were hauled to the kilns, about fifteen feet high and 5 feet across, and cooked to a powder consistency whereupon



Section number 8 Page lz

it was applied to the fields as fertilizer. The kilns still exist today about 300 yards south and 200 yards west of the Manor House.

Sometime during this period the Red Sulphur Spring to Lowell road was built across Gwinn Mountain (now Wind Creek Mountain) to carry produce and the Stage Line. The Stage Line was utilized to brlng wealthy families to the mountainous (cooling altitude before the days of air conditioning) areas where their social and health needs could be met at the various spas in the area (ie White, Green, Red, Blue Sulphur Springs, etc.). Roads were built and maintained by people in the vicinity. At one early time "hands in the neighborhood were compelled, between the ages of twenty one and forty five years, to work such numbers of days as appointed ... not exceeding six." (Miller p 344). This road was hewn in the rock on Gwinn Mountain and can be clearly seen in fall and winter from the Manor House. It is no longer used but can be easily traversed. "The Stage was true to its type one sees in the movies today, plush seats and ornate doors, the driver cracking the whip over four horses from a high seat on the top front; baggage piled on a rack behind him. The drivers were "Shug Spangler, the Dunns, Eb Dillon ... "Shug" seemed to be the most colorful of the drivers, his ''Whoopee" when he topped Gwinn mountain could be heard in Lowell. Shug was drown in Greenbrier River near Lowell after a long and exciting career." (Faulkner from K. J. "Kent Kessler).

Samuel Jr. died September 8, 1863 and his wife on February 20, 1872.

Andrew Gwinn (Long Andy)

Because of his great height, the oldest son of Samuel Jr. was nicknamed "Long Andy". He was born in the log house his Grandfather had built and in which his father was born, on December 3, 1821. He married Elizabeth Keller on October 18, 1857. They had only one child, James.

In the 1840's several families then living in the area moved west. Taking advantage of the opportunities,

United stam Department of the Interior National Park Servics


Section number 8 Page 1 3

L o n g Andy p u r c h a s e d a b o u t 1 0 0 0 m o r e a c r e s a d j o i n i n g h i s p r o p e r t y . A f t e r t h e c o n s t r u c t i o n o f t h e C&O R a i l r o a d i n t h e 1 8 7 0 1 s , a s t o c k y a r d was b u i l t a t P e n c e S p r i n g s . " I t b e c a m e t h e b i g s h i p p i n g p o i n t f o r b e e f c a t t l e t h a t w e r e b r o u g h t i n h u g e c a t t l e d r i v e s b y t h e t h o u s a n d , e v e n a s f a r a w a y a s G i l e s C o u n t y , V i r g i n i a ; a n d t h e r e w a s " L o n g A n d y " w i t h a r o u n d 2 0 0 0 a c r e s i n o n e b o d y . I t w a s n ' t l o n g b e f o r e h e w a s d e a l i n g m o s t l y i n b e e f c a t t l e . " ( L o n g , A p r i l 3 , 1 9 8 0 ) .

I n 1 8 6 8 h e b u i l t t h e M a n o r H o u s e . "No o n e k n o w s how m a n y t i m e s h e l o o k e d down t h e h i l l w h e r e t h e c a b i n s t o o d , a c o n s t a n t memory o f h i s h u m b l e b e g i n n i n g s ; b u t t h e r e s t o o d t h e b i g h o u s e , i t s w a l l t w e l v e i n c h e s t h i c k . " ( L o n g , A p r i l 3 , 1 9 8 0 ) . James H . M i l l e r i n h i s " H i s t o r y o f S u m m e r s C o u n t y " s a y s t h a t a t t h e t i m e h e w a s t h e " w e a l t h i e s t f a r m e r i n t h e c o u n t y . "

S i l a s F . T a y l o r - D e s i g n e r I B u i l d e r

S i l a s F . T a y l o r d e s i g n e d a n d b u i l t t h e M a n o r H o u s e . He was b o r n i n B e d f o r d C o u n t y , V i r g i n i a i n 1 8 2 0 . He e m i g r a t e d t o M o n r o e C o u n t y ( n o w S u m m e r s a n d M o n r o e ) w i t h h i s f a t h e r w h e n h e was 1 6 . He m a r r i e d S o b i n a N u t t e r i n 1 8 4 2 a n d s e t t l e d o n L i c k C r e e k i n 1 8 5 5 . " S i l a s F . T a y l o r , t h e a n c e s t o r , was a b r i c k m a s o n by t r a d e , a n d h a d a r e p u t a t i o n t h r o u g h o u t a l l t h i s s e c t i o n o f t h e c o u n t y f o r h i s h o n e s t w o r k a n d a b i l i t y i n h i s o c c u p a t i o n . He b u i l t t h e b r i c k h o u s e o f C a p t a i n A . A . M i l l e r o n L i c k C r e e k , a l s o o n e f o r A u g u s t u s G w i n n n e a r A l d e r s o n ( s t i l l e x t a n t ) , o n e f o r A n d r e w G w i n n a t L o w e l l , ( n o m i n a t i o n p r o p e r t y ) a n d a l s o t h e E p h r a i m J . G w i n n b r i c k h o u s e a t G r e e n S u l p h u r S p r i n g s . . . a n d o t h e r o l d , s u b s t a n t i a l b r i c k b u i l d i n g s o f t h e c o u n t y . A t t h e o u t b r e a k o f t h e War ( C i v i l ) h e w a s c a p t a i n o f

United State8 Department of the Interior National Park Service


Section number 8 Page 1 4

the militia, and became a soldier of the Confederacy, being captured in 1862, confined in Johnson's Island prison, and after his discharge entered the service under Captain Philip Thurmond, and was again captured and confined in the same prison . . . " (Miller p. 4 2 0 - 2 1 ) . Interestingly enough, his son William J. Taylor was also a Confederate, was captured, and was confined in Camp Chase, Ohio, Prison No. 1 , Mess 5. In his voluminous book, Miller includes a copy of a letter from son to father dated August 1 , 1862, from prisoner to prisoner! (Miller p. 4 2 1 ) . Each of Taylor's homes and buildings are architecturally quite distinctive in their own right.

ARCHITECTURE-BUILDINGS

The property's architectural significance has been detailed in item 7. The Manor House and contributing outbuildings are important examples of their unique functions and period and their association with the important events and persions in the history of the frontier and its early settlement and development. It should be noted that only the log meat house remains from the original 1770 "settlement" period.

The Manor House from its exterior views appears much as it did when constructed in 1868. With the later addition of the front piazza, it i s of particular "vernacular" interest. A number of homes in this region possess them. The outbuildings were placed and utilized by Long Andy for his agricultural and domestic needs. They represent generic agricultural functions from the period 1 7 7 0 up until his death in 1913. The overall view depicts what an affluent family's home looked like in the mid 19th Century. With few exceptions, the Manor House is "period"; admittedly it is less elegant and of smaller scale than the typical "Southern" plantation house. Samuel Sr. and Samuel Jr. cleared, lived on, and cultivated this property from the 1770's. The meat house was Samuel Sr's. Samuel Jr. lived in his father's log house and expanded the land holdings and agricultural operation. Long Andy built the Manor House, lived in it his entire life and died there. It represents the "best" of its period in this region. The Manor House is in an excellent state of repair.

Unlted States Department of the Interior National Park Service


Section number Page 1 5

HISTORIC SETTING

T h e s i t e i s a s b e a u t i f u l a n d f u n c t i o n a l a s t h e d a y S a m u e l S r . p u r c h a s e d i t a n d b e g a n t h e p u r s u i t o f h i s d r e a m s . I t a p p e a r s t o d a y m u c h a s i t w o u l d h a v e i n t h e e a r l y p e r i o d ; r o l l i n g a g r i c u l t u r a l f i e l d s a n d p a s t u r e a l o n g t h e s i d e o f a n d o v e r l o o k i n g t h e G r e e n b r i e r R i v e r V a l l e y . T h e e v e n t s a n d t h e p e o p l e a n d t h e f u n c t i o n s a s s o c i a t e d w i t h t h i s p r o p e r t y a r e m o s t c e r t a i n l y s i g n i f i c a n t i n t h e p a t t e r n s o f A m e r i c a n H i s t o r y .

SEE ATTACHED CONTINUATION SHEET

See continuation sheet Previous documentation on file (NPS):

preliminary determination of individual listing (36 CFR 67) has been requested previously listed in the National Register previously determined eligible by the National Register designated a National Historic Landmark recorded by Historic American Buildings Survey #

C] recorded by Historic American Engineering Record #

Primary location of additional data: State historic preservation office 0 Other State agency

Federal agency Local government University Other

Specify repository: rq rn i in tv 1. i b a r v Hi n+nn WV

National ~rchives, washington, ' DC 10. Geographical Data Acreage of property 3.75 acres

UTM References A ] 1 , 7 1 151214j11410) ( 4 1 1 1 6 1 6 1 6 1 5 1 0 J

Zone Easting Northing B l l i lllllll-

Zone Easting Northing


Verbal Boundary Description


Boundary Justification The property's approximately 3.75 acres includes a complex of surviving plantation buildings and Manor House surrounded by pasture. The boundaries include a concentration of structures in a setting which conveys a strong sense of historical relationship as to location, setting and design.


11. Form Prepared By name/titIe Schmauss. David C. - owner organization NA date July 28 ; 1988 street & number 165A Route telephone 466 - 4471 city or town Pence Springs, West Virginia state WV zip code 24963


- 'ational Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet


MAJOR BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES:

Ambler, Charles Henry, PhD, A History of West Virginia, 1933, Prentice Hall, Inc.

Faulconer, John; "Around Hinton"; Hinton Daily News, July 20, 1951.

Graham, A.R.; Gwinn Family Sketch; Unpublished manuscript. 1907.

Gwinn, Samuel Sr.; "Pension Certificate No. 23706" For the Revolutionary War; March 12, 1834; National Archives, Wash. D.C.

Lively, Lester; "Bud Dunn Recalls Red Sulphur Turnpike Days;" 19 ; Hinton Daily News - date unknown.

Long, Frederick D; "The Gwinns"; Nineteen Article Series; November 15, 1979 to April 24, 1980; Hinton Daily News.

Miller, James H.; History of Summers County - From the Earliest Settlement to the Present Time; Privately Published Book, 1908.

Nelson, Mary Gwinn; Oral Interviews by David Schmauss, 1987.

Turley, C.E. and Harding, James E; Col. James Graham House; National Register of Historic Places, Nomination Form, 1975.


'ational Register of Historic Places Continuation Sheet

Section number 1 0 Page 1

Verbal Boundary Description

BEGINNING at a metal fence post on the southerly right of way line of W. Va. Secondary Route 1 5 near C&P Telephone Company pole No. 1 8 2 . 1 , being a corner to Mrs. M. E. Nelson and proceeding thence leaving said right of way and with said Nelson line S. 1 7 degrees 11' 1 5 " W. 2 7 8 . 2 0 feet with the fence to the northeast corner of an old wooden shed; thence with the easterly side of said shed and continuing past said shed S. 1 4 degrees 2 4 ' W. 3 7 . 0 3 feet to a metal fence post set by J. E. Gwinn; thence N. 7 6 degrees 1 3 ' 1 7 " W. 1 7 9 . 9 2 feet with a fence to a metal fence post corner; thence N. 1 5 degrees 1 6 ' 1 7 ' ' E. 3 9 2 . 5 5 feet with a fence to a fence post near a gate on the southerly right of way line of W. Va. secondary route 1 5 ; thence with said right of way S. 7 2 degrees 5 3 ' E. 4 7 1 . 0 2 feet to the point of Beginning, containing 3 . 7 5 8 acres, more or less.

(Recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Summers County, West Virginia, Deed Book Number 1 1 5 page 2 1 1 . )

416!

230 00(

F E F l

, Mapped, edited, and publ ished by the Geological Survey Y" .< c," Control by USGS and USC&GS

(&5 ,\' P Topography by photogrammetr lc methods f rom aerlal 8'' photographs taken 1 9 6 9 . Fleld checked 1 9 7 1

Pro lec t~on and 10,000 foot gr ld t ~ c k s West Vlrglnta coordinate s y s t ~ m , south zone (Lambert conformal conlc) 1000 meter Un~versa l Transverse Mercator gr ld tlcks, zone 17, shown In blue 1 9 2 7 Nor th Arnerlcan d a t u m

Rev~s~ons showrr I r i p ~ ~ r p l e complied from aerial photographs take11 1976. This ~ r r fo r rna t~o~ i rmt f ~ e l d clrecked

(

I 7

' - 3 =I 5 7 t

i 000 0 1000 ZOO( t a - l F r -=z-

1 5 E I H _ E L r F I

CONTOU NATIONAL G F O D I

T ' M A P C O M P L I E S WITt

F< ALE BY U. S. GEOLO( A FOLDEi. IJESCRIBING TOPOGRAPtII

park national register of historic places registration form · united states department of the...

Documents