 
Hawkwood
Photograph courtesy of Virginia Department of Historic Resources
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Until it was gutted
by fire in 1982, Hawkwood was the best-remaining example of the Italian
Villa-style houses designed by New York architect Alexander Jackson Davis.
Completed in 1855, the house was built for Richard Overton Morris, a wealthy
planter who promoted scientific agricultural methods to restore Virginia's
depressed economy. While much of Davis's architecture was inspired by
Greek and Gothic forms, he also was a popularizer of the Italian Villa
style fostered in America by his collaborator Andrew
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Hawkwood: before 1982 fire
Photograph courtesy of National Historic Landmark Program
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Jackson Downing. Downing wrote that with its shading eaves, verandas,
and picturesque massing, the villa style was most appropriate for country
houses in the South. A hallmark of the style, demonstrated in Hawkwood,
is the square tower. Hawkwood's walls and tower were spared in the fire
and have since been stabilized and re-roofed. Complete restoration of
the house is contemplated.
Hawkwood is located on the west side of Rte. 15, 3 miles north of
I-64 and south of Gordonsville. It is a private residence and is not
open to the public.
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