Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial photo
ParkVirginia, US

Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial

Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial preserves the last home and burial place of American patriot Patrick Henry.

About

Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial preserves the last home and burial place of American patriot Patrick Henry. This significant historical site in rural Virginia offers a profound journey into the life and times of the "Voice of the Revolution," ensuring his pivotal role in American independence is never forgotten. Spanning 1,000 acres, it beautifully maintains the landscape and structures of his final years.

Visitors can explore the faithfully reconstructed main house and original law office, providing an intimate glimpse into Henry's daily life and legal work. The E. Stuart James Grant Museum houses the world's largest collection of Patrick Henry artifacts, including his personal belongings and the iconic painting "Patrick Henry Before the Virginia House of Burgesses" by Peter F. Rothermel. Beyond the domestic structures, guests can visit the Henry family cemetery, stroll along scenic trails that lead to the historic African-American cemetery at Quarter Place, and marvel at the magnificent National Champion Osage Orange Tree.

A visit to Red Hill offers more than just a historical tour; it's an immersive experience that allows you to walk the grounds where a Founding Father lived, thought, and influenced the course of a nation. It presents a nuanced narrative, acknowledging the intertwined stories of all who lived and labored on the plantation. This national memorial provides a vital connection to the revolutionary era and a contemplative space to reflect on the ideals of liberty and the complex history of the early American republic. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

Patrick Henry, renowned for his impassioned "Give me liberty or give me death!" speech, purchased Red Hill in 1794 and made it his final home, residing there with his wife and children until his death in 1799. The property served not only as his residence but also as a working 2,930-acre tobacco plantation with various dependencies, including slave quarters. The original main house tragically burned down in 1919. The Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation was established in 1944 to preserve Henry's legacy. It acquired the property from his great-granddaughter, Lucy Gray Henry Harrison, and embarked on a mission to restore and reconstruct the historic grounds. The foundation reconstructed Henry's home on its original foundations in 1957, restored his original law office, and built a museum in 1976 to house its extensive collection of artifacts. In recognition of its significance, Red Hill was designated a National Memorial by an Act of Congress in 1986. The foundation continues to curate the site, including sharing the stories of Indigenous peoples and the enslaved and free African Americans who were part of Red Hill's history.

What to do here

Take a guided tour of the historic buildings, browse the museum exhibits, walk the Gene Dixon Trail or the Quarter Place Trail, visit the gift shop, and attend one of the many educational programs or special events held throughout the year.

Seasonal info

Summers can be warm in Virginia, so dress accordingly and stay hydrated. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. The memorial hosts seasonal events such as living history days, lantern tours, and a Christmas Open House.

Accessibility

The Visitor Center is fully accessible. Golf carts are available for visitors with disabilities to navigate the main historic grounds, which can be helpful as the distance from the Visitor Center to the Henry House is about 500 feet. While wheelchairs and walkers are permitted inside historic buildings, some buildings, like the Henry House and Law Office, have a few stairs with handrails (3 steps), while others like the Kitchen (1 step) and Harrison's Cabin (2 steps) have limited or no handrails. Benches are provided around the grounds and at key locations. Vested service animals are welcome inside buildings.

Don't miss

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The reconstructed Patrick Henry Home, the original Law Office (with some of Henry's personal furnishings), the E. Stuart James Grant Museum, Patrick Henry's grave and the Henry Family Cemetery, the African-American Cemetery at Quarter Place, and the majestic National Champion Osage Orange Tree are all must-sees. Don't miss the Peter F. Rothermel painting in the museum.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy exploring the extensive grounds and trails.

Check the Red Hill website's event calendar before your visit to see if any special programs, reenactments, or events are scheduled.

Allow ample time, ideally 2-4 hours, to experience the museum, all historic buildings, and walk some of the trails.

Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture, picturesque landscapes, and unique artifacts.

Be aware that cell phone service can be sporadic in the rural area, so consider downloading offline maps if relying on GPS for navigation to the site.

Pack insect repellent, especially during warmer months or if you plan to walk the nature trails.

Frequently asked questions

Key attractions include Patrick Henry's reconstructed home, his original law office, his grave in the family cemetery, the E. Stuart James Grant Museum featuring a large collection of Henry artifacts and the famous Rothermel painting, the African-American Cemetery at Quarter Place, and the National Champion Osage Orange Tree.
No, Red Hill is owned and operated by the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It relies on admissions, grants, and private donations for its preservation and educational work and does not receive federal funding, despite its National Memorial designation.

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