Built by George Washington's sister, Betty Washington Lewis, and her husband, Fielding Lewis, this Georgian-style, brick mansion reflects the pre-Revolutionary-War wealth and status of the Fredericksburg merchant.
A visit to Kenmore starts in the Crowninshield Visitor Center. The Bissell Gallery features an exhibit commemorating the centennial of the saving of Kenmore and the remarkable group of women who led the effort in 1922. Here’s to the Ladies: A Century of Preservation at Historic Kenmore includes hands-on activities for children, and highlights rarely-seen early 20th century pieces from Kenmore’s collection.
The mansion has undergone a comprehensive refurnishing, and period furniture and interior details offer a descriptive setting for this historic story. An interpreter will lead a 45-minute tour of the first floor of the house and the kitchen dependency. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the gardens and grounds at their leisure.
Historic Kenmore is a beautiful, Georgian-style brick mansion built by George Washington’s sister, Betty Washington Lewis, and her husband, Fredericksburg merchant Fielding Lewis, reflecting their pre-Revolutionary War wealth and gentry status.
The guided tour focuses on the Lewis family and the sacrifices it made to support the American cause during the War for Independence. Eighteenth-century furniture and accessories accurately depict Fielding and Betty Washington Lewis’ gentry-level wealth. You may also tour the grounds on your own before and after your house tour.
Finally, the Bissell Gallery inside the Crowninshield Building Visitor Center features an exhibit that illustrates the history of Kenmore, including its collections, former inhabitants, builders, restoration, and grounds. On display are 18th-century artifacts and curated objects from Kenmore’s collection.
When you arrive at Kenmore, check in at the Crowninshield Building Visitor Center, where you will be welcomed by staff and may purchase tour tickets (if you have not already done so online).The Crowninshield Building is located to the left, down the path, after you enter the grounds on Washington Avenue. Your tour will begin at the scheduled time on Kenmore’s lawn near the steps on the south side of the house.
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