Lee Hall Mansion

Visit the only remaining Italianate home in Virginia.

Richard Decatur Lee was born in 1821 and grew up on a small farm not far from where the mansion is located in Newport News, Virginia. Lee inherited 481 1/2 acres in 1844, plus 7 male slaves. Richard married a widow (Martha) who had 2 children. The couple had 7 more children together. Farming was a way of life for him, so he continued farming. The land had been depleted from the excessive tobacco crops, but Lee used crop rotation and became very successful. He bought even more land in 1851. Richard Decatur Lee was also an election official, a grist mill owner, and a Justice of the Peace.

Construction on the mansion happened from 1851 to 1859. The mansion is Italianate with Greek revival and Gothic architectural detailing. It features over 6,000 square feet with 12 rooms and 12 fireplaces. After only 3 years, the Civil War began, and the family fled towards Richmond. The home became the Confederate headquarters, with General John Bankhead Magruder and General Joseph Eggleston Johnston leading the army. They were able to hold off the Union army for 3 weeks, but then the Virginia Peninsula came under Union control.

The Lees returned in 1870, but the Civil War had ended slavery, and they had to sell the home in 1871. Lots of change followed, the history of the house was lost, and ownership changed 6 different times. It eventually was in total disrepair, and the city of Newport News purchased the property in 1996, restoring the house to its antebellum appearance. It is open for tours Thursday - Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission rates are less than $10 per person. Explore this immaculate mansion and learn more about its history the next time you visit Virginia.