Patrick Henry's Scotchtown
16120 Chiswell Ln, Beaverdam, VA
It was here at Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown that Henry conceived his most influential revolutionary ideas. Scotchtown is the only original standing home of the Patriot and Orator of the American Revolution; Patrick Henry lived here from 1771-1778. It was at Scotchtown that he formulated the ideas of his famous “Liberty or Death” speech and it was from the house that he rode to St. John’s Church in Richmond on March 23, 1775 to deliver it.
Built around 1720 by Charles Chiswell, Scotchtown is architecturally unique, and the house is surrounded by reproduction outbuildings and gardens. Since being acquired by Preservation Virginia in 1958, the house has been restored to its appearance during Patrick Henry’s life and is open for tours seasonally.
Experience our dialogue based tour exploring Henry’s ideals of “Liberty, Human Rights and Revolution.” Also, explore the grounds, listen to a cell phone tour, enjoy a birding trail, shop in the museum store, eat lunch under our pavilion or participate in one of the site’s many hands-on classes and special events. Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown is also available for private rental. Visit our weddings section for more information about site rentals for reunions, festivals and feasts, photo shoots, TV/film shoots and of course, your special day!
Since the beginning of 2014, Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown has updated our tour, furnishings plan and tour route. With more of a focus placed on Patrick Henry’s life and legacy, visitors can expect to experience a dialogue based tour that discusses topics such as “Liberty”, “Human Rights” and “Revolution”.
Source:
Preservation Virginia
Updated May 24, 2017
List of trips to this site
- Patriots of the American Revolution — Road trip to their birthplaces and homes
- Visiting the homes of America's Founding Fathers on a Historic America Road Trip