Existing comment:
William Jones built the current house, Ellwood, by the 1790s, and over the next fifty years became one of the wealthiest men in Spotsylvania County. He sold corn, oats, and timber. He also received rent from nearby Wilderness Tavern. Visitors came: "Light Horse" Harry Lee (Robert E. Lee's father) and probably presidents Madison and Monroe. In 1825, the Marquis de Lafayette -- hero of the Revolution -- dined here during his triumphant tour of America.
Despite his wealth and acquaintances, Jones never became prominent in Virginia's politics. Instead, he lived the life of a gentleman farmer, overseeing his plantation and the work of dozens of slaves. |