Virginia Department of Historic Resources Virginia Department of Historic Resources
For additional information, read the Nomination Form PDF
VLR Listing Date 10/18/1983
NRHP Listing Date 11/22/1985
NRHP Reference Number 85002913
Wiloma is an architecturally successful blending of area vernacular forms with pattern-book detailing. The main body of the house is a large Valley of Virginia I-house, a popular vernacular house form in the first half of the 19th century. Fronting the house is a provincial interpretation of a two-level Greek Revival portico, a device frequently used in the Botetourt County region to give houses architectural dignity. Many elements of the interior woodwork, especially the mantels, are directly adapted from illustrations in the pattern books of Boston architect Asher Benjamin. The house was built in 1848 for Morgan Utz, a Fincastle merchant who served as a ruling elder in the Fincastle Presbyterian Church and a trustee of Botetourt Seminary. Unspoiled rural scenery reinforces the historic character of this dignified old house.
Many properties listed in the registers are private dwellings and are not open to the public, however many are visible from the public right-of-way. Please be respectful of owner privacy.
Abbreviations:
VLR: Virginia Landmarks Register
NPS: National Park Service
NRHP: National Register of Historic Places
NHL: National Historic Landmark
Updated: September 8, 2021
