Point of Honor | Lynchburg

Information

Landmark: Point of Honor
City: Lynchburg
Country: USA Virginia
Continent: North America

Point of Honor, Lynchburg, USA Virginia, North America

Point of Honor is a historic house museum located in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is situated on a bluff overlooking the James River.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a two-story Federal-style brick structure with a hipped roof. It features a central projecting pavilion with a pediment and a Palladian window. The exterior brickwork is a deep red, and the trim is painted white. A two-story portico with Tuscan columns extends across the front facade. The grounds include mature trees and formal gardens.

Location & Access Logistics

Point of Honor is located at 112 Cabell Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of downtown Lynchburg. Access is via Cabell Street, which connects to Main Street. Parking is available on-site in a dedicated lot. The Lynchburg Area Transportation System (LATS) bus route 3 stops within a 0.2-mile (0.3 km) walk of the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed between 1815 and 1820 for George and Sarah Horsley. It was designed by architect John M. Ambler. The original purpose was a private residence. The site itself is a natural bluff formed by geological processes related to the James River's course.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the restored interior of the house, which showcases period furnishings and architectural details. The grounds offer walking paths with views of the James River. Educational programs and special events are held throughout the year.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the main house. Limited shade is provided by trees on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in the area. No on-site food vendors are present, but dining options are available in nearby downtown Lynchburg.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal interior lighting during photography, visit between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant outdoor conditions for exploring the grounds. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the house remained in the Horsley family for over 150 years before being acquired by the city of Lynchburg. Local lore sometimes mentions the presence of a hidden tunnel, though its existence is unverified.