Welcome to Valley View, a captivating location steeped in history and architectural beauty. Perched atop a promontory where Depot Valley meets the South Branch Potomac River valley, Valley View is a mid-19th-century Greek Revival residence, a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Romney, West Virginia. The origins of this historic site trace back to the early 18th century when it was part of the South Branch Survey of the Northern Neck Proprietary. Inherited by Thomas Fairfax, 6th Lord Fairfax of Cameron, the land saw its first settlers, John Collins and his family, in 1749. The Parsons family acquired the property before 1772, and it was James Parsons Jr. who, in 1855, constructed the Valley View house.
The house, an exemplary piece of Greek Revival architecture, is a two-story brick structure featuring a rectangular plan, a small portico with a pediment supported by Doric columns, and a two-story wooden porch at the rear offering stunning views of the South Branch Potomac River valley and Mill Creek Mountain. Each of the original eight rooms boasts a fireplace with classical wooden mantelpieces, and the original windows and wooden trim remain intact, preserving the historical essence of the building.
Following the Civil War, the property changed hands to Charles Harmison, whose wife Elizabeth was inspired by the scenic views to name it Valley View, reminiscent of her childhood home, Western View, in Virginia. The Mayhew family, the current proprietors since 1979, have lovingly restored this historic residence, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Valley View holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for its architectural significance and its role in the local history of West Virginia. As you explore this site, imagine the lives of those who lived and thrived here, from its early settlers to the Parsons and Harmison families, each leaving their mark on this picturesque landscape. Valley View is not just a house; it is a window into the past, inviting you to step back in time and experience the history that shaped this beautiful region.
