054-0016 Cuckoo

For additional information, read the Nomination Form PDF

VLR Listing Date 04/20/1994

NRHP Listing Date 08/19/1994

NRHP Reference Number 94000550

Built ca. 1819 for Henry Pendleton, this stately old Louisa County homestead stands near the site of the 18th-century Cuckoo Tavern, from which the Revolutionary War patriot Jack Jouett began his legendary ride to warn Thomas Jefferson and General Assembly members of impending British capture. The Pendleton family was prominent in local and state affairs; several members became well-known physicians. On the grounds are two doctor’s office outbuildings, one 18th-century and one 19th-century. The two-story brick dwelling is an interesting blend of original Federal-style details and early-20th-century Colonial Revival renovations. The interior preserves several early Federal mantels. An unusual feature is the semi-circular pent closet with demi-conical roof, also an original feature. Dr. Eugene Pendleton renovated the house in 1910, replacing a Victorian-era porch with the present classical portico. The property remained in the ownership of Pendleton descendants through the time of its late-20th-century listing in the registers.

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: March 14, 2021