The Big House

SirFin, on February 2, 2007, said:

The Piankatank River, with its soaring wooden bluffs and deep waters, is undoubtedly one of the loveliest sights in Virginia. One of the most impressive properties on the river's south shore is Providence, a magnificent Georgian home with columned portico (since removed in the late '80s), situated on a hillside providing a panoramic view of the Piankatank River. A property of considerable historic significance, Providence dates back to 1652 when it was part of a 2,000-acre tract patented by Colonel George Ludlow. The original dwelling was built by the Fritchett family and is documented in a 1754 plat filed in the Gloucester County Clerk's Office. Additions were made around 1934 and 1955, with a major renovation and construction of the western wing off the drawing room in the late 1980s. Overlooking tranquil views of the river, the imposing Georgian residence is one of only two residences on the south shore sited directly on the waterfront. Broad sweeping lawns slope down to the river's edge, bordered by colorful wildflower ravines. The formal garden, designed by prominent landscape architect, Charles Gillete, has since been removed.

This lovely estate is a pleasant 50-minute drive to Colonial Williamsburg, and hour to Richmond or Norfolk, three hours to the Nation's capital and only fifteen minutes to the Fishing Bay Yacht Club in Deltaville.