In 2019, photographer Bryan Sansivero got special permission to explore a fascinating Federal-style house in Virginia, as long as he kept its location a secret. This incredible home is packed with intriguing pieces of Americana, making it a real gem. Locals are committed to keeping its address under wraps to protect the house and its treasures.
Nestled amidst a cluster of towering trees away from the main road, an old clapboard house sat hidden, known only to a handful of locals. Urban explorer Bryan Sansivero stumbled upon this secret spot, guided by local whispers, and battled through thick vegetation to reach it. What he discovered was a piece of history: a backyard cemetery where the former owner and family rested.
Built in 1929, this frame house replaced a grand mansion from a century before. It belonged to a notable figure—a respected educator and influential politician who, alongside his family, called it home. An alumnus of the esteemed College of William and Mary, the owner, who passed in the late 1970s, was renowned for advocating desegregation in Virginia’s schools during the tumultuous ’50s and ’60s.
Entering the house felt like stepping back in time. The parlor, the first room, served as a welcoming space, still adorned with elegant antique furniture, like the Eastlake fainting couch. During Sansivero’s visit, everything remained as it was—furniture meticulously arranged, portraits watching from the walls.
The parlor boasted a stunning marble fireplace and a sprawling Persian carpet that covered most of the hardwood floor. A brass chandelier hung from above, casting its glow over the room, while an ornate gilt mirror held court on the wall, reflecting the memories of a bygone era.
In this elegant room, there’s a striking Modern Gothic writing desk crafted by the renowned New York firm Kimbel and Cabus. This oak bureau, a prized piece of Americana dating back to the 1870s, holds significant value, much like its counterpart showcased in The Met Museum of Art.
Resting on the desk’s extended writing surface are an aged document and a pair of spectacles in need of repair. These types of desks often command high prices at prestigious art and antique auctions.
The house was once home to a prominent politician, belonging to a family well-versed in the intricacies of Washington’s affairs. Throughout the residence, you’ll find an array of old books, including one adorned with a detailed etching of President Lincoln, likely over a century old. These objects paint a picture of the family’s deep-rooted patriotism.
Adorning the walls of this room and others are cherished family photographs. Among them, a daguerreotype capturing a trio in attire from the 1860s, harking back to the era of the Civil War.
As you step into the hallway, your gaze is drawn to the grand staircase that commands attention. A sturdy upright piano, likely a hub of family gatherings and entertainment, still holds its place here. Despite showing signs of wear with peeling paint, the building’s structure remains resilient.
Just off the main hallway lies a cozy sitting room, intended for family relaxation, quiet reading, or cozying up by the fire. Similar to the parlor, it boasts a brass chandelier and is painted in a striking sea green hue.
Resting on the mantelpiece, a pair of family photographs dating back to the 1860s adds a nostalgic touch. Positioned behind them are delicate profile portrait miniatures depicting a lady and gentleman adorned in 18th-century attire.
These miniatures are elegantly displayed in the room, offering a glimpse into the past. One particular photograph, housed in an Adirondack Eastlake picture frame with ornate leaf motifs, reflects a popular style from the 1890s.
The room is also equipped with a neat writing bureau, a must-have for a family deeply involved in correspondence. A portrait of a young man, presumably a relative, adorns the wall, dating back to the early to mid-20th century.
Considering the patriarch’s political influence, it’s no wonder the house is adorned with a plethora of photographs featuring former presidents and esteemed figures. Among them is a striking black-and-white image of President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie. The previous owner was affiliated with a group that actively supported Kennedy’s 1960 election bid.
Moving into the dining room, you’re greeted by an oversized Persian carpet, intricate floral wallpaper, and a gleaming brass chandelier. Adding to its elegance is a sideboard reminiscent of the writing bureau in the parlor, likely crafted by the renowned New York furniture artisans Kimbel and Cabus.
The floral wallpaper appears to be a recent addition, retaining its pristine condition. Completing the room is a built-in corner cabinet, likely utilized to showcase the family’s cherished china collection.
These three photographs likely date back to the late 19th or early 20th century. The woman in the rightmost picture is elegantly dressed in an evening gown typical of the 1890s and early 1900s.
Inside the cupboard, you’ll find some of the family’s treasured china pieces, including a delicate white and gold floral set, alongside various porcelain plates and teacups. Discovering such well-preserved items in an abandoned house is a rarity, adding to the allure of keeping the location a secret.
Of all the rooms, the upstairs landing suffers the most wear and tear. Portions of the ceiling have lost their plaster, paint peels away, and dampness leaves its mark on the walls.
A family portrait, likely hailing from the Victorian era, hangs on the decaying wall of the upper landing beside a charming arched doorway. Nearby, a decorative wall sconce in the American Art Nouveau style adds a touch of old-world charm to the scene.
The master bedroom, adorned in calming blue tones, showcases a magnificent solid oak Eastlake bed as its centerpiece. These beds, renowned for their towering headboards, were sturdy investments designed to stand the test of time, likely originating from the late 19th century.
In a smaller bedroom, you’ll find an exquisite wooden four-poster bed, also believed to be crafted in the late 19th century. Like most rooms in the house, this one boasts its own fireplace, a necessity for warmth in days before central heating became common.
Among the bedroom’s furnishings are a claw-legged chest of drawers, a charming white dressing table, a tile-top washstand, and a quaint rocking chair with rustic appeal. A wrought iron poker rests beside the fireplace, adding a touch of practicality.
True to its roots, the house remains untouched by modernization, retaining its original 1920s character. As is typical of older homes, it features just one modest bathroom, clearly showing signs of age. While the bathtub remains intact, the washbasin has been removed, leaving only its stand behind.
As evident in this image, the original doors to this bedroom, much like the rest of the house’s doors, are remarkably well-preserved. Despite the passage of time since these photos were captured, the house stands strong and has been meticulously maintained. The once overgrown bushes have been trimmed back, and visitors are now welcomed onto the property. Here’s to hoping that this exquisite home continues to grace us with its presence for many years to come.
