Steve Huppert
Columnist
Hupps440@aol.com
One of the hidden secrets of the New River Valley is the home of the Preston family at historic Smithfield, Blacksburg.
The magnificent structure was built by Col. William Preston between 1772 and 17774. Starting on the eve of the American Revolution families were moving west on the Great Wagon Road. Many stopped at Smithfield for deeds to the land that would be their new home.
This huge home was one of the first structures in southwest Virginia. Even though 250 years have gone by, the house is just as beautiful today as it was before the American Revolution. It is truly a marvel to visit and explore. Guides are available for 45- minute tours, or visitors can take a self-guided trip through the home and read the signage cards throughout the house.
Normally, I am giving tours Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you tell me you saw the article in the News Messenger or Radford News Journal I will make the trip through the house extra special. But you will see as soon as you arrive at Smithfield visiting the home and garden is a treat.
The house sits on 4.5 acres on the Virginia Tech campus, near the duck pound. It is something to be admired; unfortunately, only a small percentage of the people in the area realize what a treasure we have within the county.
Smithfield is open for tours from April to December, Wednesdays to Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fall is a great time to tour the house and facilities around the structure. Recently, a schedule of events for Smithfield for the fall was announced:
Graves Matters –Oct. 6 – 6 – 8:30 p.m. (Horror Stories)
Halloween at Smithfield – Oct.25
Thanksgiving during the American Revolution – Nov. 15
Yule Tide – Dec. 13, 10 a.m. -3 p.m. – Artisan goods – Santa Photos – Wreath creation –English Tea and more.
Please contact Smithfield for additional information. Many volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year and for special events. Vendors for all the events are welcome.
For more information contact:1000 Merry Oak Way, Blacksburg, Va.24060; phone 540 231-3946; or e-mail Jenny at Jnetirt@historicsmithfield.org. Touring Smithfield any time is a treat that you will not forget, even if I was not your tour guide.
