Solitude

Solitude, nestled within the scenic campus of Virginia Polytechnic Institute in Blacksburg, Virginia, is a beacon of historical charm and architectural elegance. This venerable structure, dating back over two centuries, stands as a testament to the rich and multifaceted history of the region. As the oldest building on the Virginia Tech campus, Solitude offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, encapsulating the evolution of the area from its early days to the present.

A Journey Through Time

The story of Solitude begins around 1802 when the earliest section of the house was constructed. Over the years, it underwent several expansions, first around 1834 and then in the 1850s, under the stewardship of Colonel Robert Preston. Preston inherited the land from his father, James Patton Preston, who served as the Governor of Virginia. These expansions transformed Solitude into the two-story, L-shaped, five-bay log and frame dwelling with a hipped roof that we see today. The mid-19th-century modifications imbued the farmhouse with a Greek Revival aesthetic, adding to its architectural allure.

A Living Legacy

Solitude is not just a building; it is a living legacy. The property includes several contributing structures, such as the stone spring house with a log superstructure and an outbuilding built around 1844, now known as the Fraction Family House. This outbuilding was renamed by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 2019 to honor the largest enslaved population that lived on the site, symbolically recognizing all those who were enslaved at Solitude. This poignant tribute adds a layer of depth to the historical narrative of Solitude, reminding visitors of the complex and often painful history of the region.

From Farm to Campus

In 1872, the 250-acre Solitude farm became an integral part of the central campus of the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College, serving primarily as the college's farm. Following the death of Robert Taylor Preston, Solitude's owner, the farmhouse was repurposed as a college infirmary from 1882 to 1886. Subsequently, both Solitude and the Fraction Family House served as faculty housing for the next six decades. The 1940s saw Solitude transform into a clubhouse for returning World War II veterans who lived in a trailer park surrounding the building while attending Virginia Polytechnic Institute. During this period, the front parlors of Solitude became a venue for regular dances, adding a touch of social vibrancy to its storied past.

A Hub of Academic and Cultural Activity

In the 1960s and 1970s, Solitude found new life as a hub of academic and cultural activity. It was used by the Hokie Club and housed faculty in two apartments. By 1974, academic programs began utilizing the building, with Solitude hosting a human nutrition and food laboratory, interior design studios, and offices. The Appalachian Studies Program also made its home here, returning after the building's restoration. Today, Solitude is also home to the Henry H. Wiss Center for Theory and History of Art and Architecture, continuing its legacy as a center of learning and cultural enrichment.

Restoration and Preservation

Solitude had been vacant for many years before a significant restoration effort began in July 2010. This $1 million project, largely funded by the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation of Richmond, Virginia, aimed to preserve and restore the building to its former glory. The restoration, completed in half a year, was the culmination of decades of research and archaeology, including a Master's thesis by Michael Pulice, who concluded that the remaining log outbuilding was a surviving slave cabin and servants' quarters. This meticulous restoration effort has ensured that Solitude remains a vital part of the Virginia Tech campus, preserving its historical significance for future generations.

A Place of Reflection and Learning

Today, Solitude stands as a serene and picturesque landmark within the bustling Virginia Tech campus. Surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park, it offers a peaceful retreat for visitors and students alike. Listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register in 1988 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, Solitude is a place of reflection and learning, where the past and present converge.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone looking to explore the rich heritage of Blacksburg, Solitude is a must-visit destination. Its walls echo with stories of the past, from its early days as a farmhouse to its role in the academic and social life of Virginia Tech. As you walk through its halls and explore its grounds, you will be transported back in time, gaining a deeper understanding of the people and events that have shaped this remarkable place.

In conclusion, Solitude is more than just a historic home; it is a symbol of resilience, transformation, and continuity. Its enduring presence on the Virginia Tech campus serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of history that weaves through Blacksburg, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and appreciate the legacy of those who came before us.