Kenmore Plantation and Gardens | Fredericksburg

Kenmore Plantation and Gardens is a historic house museum located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It was the home of Fielding Lewis and his wife, Betty Washington Lewis, sister of George Washington.

Visual Characteristics

The main house is a Georgian-style brick structure, measuring approximately 60 feet by 40 feet. It features a symmetrical facade with a central pedimented entrance. The exterior brickwork is laid in Flemish bond. The property includes formal gardens, designed in a 18th-century style, with boxwood parterres and gravel pathways.

Location & Access Logistics

Kenmore is situated at 1201 Washington Avenue in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) east of the Fredericksburg downtown area. On-site parking is available for visitors. Public transport options include the Fredericksburg Regional Transit bus system; Route 2 serves the area, with a stop within walking distance of the plantation.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Kenmore began around 1770 and was completed in 1775. It was built by Fielding Lewis, a wealthy planter and merchant, to serve as his family residence. The house was designed by an unknown architect, though it reflects the architectural trends of the Georgian period. The gardens were restored based on historical research and archaeological findings.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours of the plantation house are offered daily. Visitors can explore the restored rooms, which contain period furnishings and artifacts. The gardens are accessible for self-guided walks. Educational programs and special events are held throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the property. Shaded areas are present within the gardens. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable. Food vendors are not located on-site, but dining options are available in nearby Fredericksburg.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting on the house and gardens, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The months of April through October offer the most favorable weather for outdoor exploration of the gardens. The gardens are at their peak bloom from spring through early autumn.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of Kenmore is its elaborate plasterwork ceiling in the dining room, attributed to the skilled artisans who also worked on Mount Vernon. Local lore suggests that Betty Washington Lewis was deeply involved in the design and management of the plantation and its gardens.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mary Washington House (0.8km West)
• Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park - Fredericksburg Battlefield (1.2km West)
• Historic Downtown Fredericksburg (1.5km West)
• James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library (1.8km West)
• Ferry Farm (2.5km North)