History Mystery trip stop 2

Once the boat is docked we proceed up the ramp to a waiting lunch of fried chicken, coleslaw, beans and cornbread along with all of the trimmings. “It’s the best chicken I’ve ever had” is the comment made by most of the diners.

Refreshed and ready to continue it’s a 3 to 5 minute walk up a graveled path to the Blennerhassett Mansion. Here we are met by tour guides dressed in period attire who escort us through the home as they interpret the rooms and décor.

Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett, exiled Anglo-Irish aristocrats, came to North America in 1796 and to the Island two years later. When they completed their home in 1800, it was considered the most beautiful private residence west of the Alleghenies. The mansion was constructed in the Palladian style of architecture which was popular in Europe and America during the 18th century. Another famous Palladian home is George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

This is also the site of where Aaron Burr and Harman Blennerhassett plotted to establish a southwest empire in what is Texas today. A frequent special event is the Mansion by Candlelight tour conducted each October. The mansion is open May-October, closed Mondays while the museum is open all year around with the exception of being closed on Mondays.
Other features out here on the island are narrated wagon rides, hiking trails and picnic facilities, a gift and concession shop. For more information visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com or call 304.420.4800/1.800.CALL.WVA for hours, days and ticket prices.

Plan on spending at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the mansion and the grounds before heading back to the mainland.

Next stop for us is Henderson Hall, a lovely Victorian plantation house dating to the mid 1830’s. It’s located on the outskirts of Williamstown, WV a short ride however due to space restrictions I’ll have to share our explorations and discoveries with you all next week.

Do you have a burning travel question? Need help on developing a perfect trip itinerary? Then feel free to contact the Travel Professor and I will search out the answers just for you!