As we stand before the magnificent Henry Gassaway Davis House, located in Piedmont, West Virginia, we are transported back to a time when Americas industrial growth was at its peak. Built in 1871 for U.S. Senator and Vice Presidential nominee, Henry G. Davis, this historic home has borne witness to some of the most influential figures in West Virginias history.

Imagine the grandeur of the three-story Second Empire style brick duplex as it stood over a century ago. The mansions architectural design is nothing short of captivating, with its Mansard roof and ornate decorative elements. The house once served as both the Knights of Pythias Lafayette Lodge, No. 3, and Calanthe Temple, No. 8, for the Pythian Sisters, adding to the rich tapestry of its history.

The man responsible for this architectural marvel was none other than Henry Gassaway Davis himself. Not only did he build this magnificent home, but he also founded the Cumberland and Piedmont Coal and Railway Company, which played a significant role in West Virginias industrial development during the late 19th century. As a U.S. Senator, Daviss influence extended far beyond the walls of his mansion, shaping the political landscape of the time.

Today, the Henry Gassaway Davis House is managed by the Piedmont Historic Preservation Foundation, which operates out of this historic mansion. The foundation works tirelessly to preserve and share the stories of the people who once inhabited these hallowed halls. As you wander through the rooms, you can almost feel the presence of Henry Gassaway Davis himself, a man whose legacy continues to resonate throughout Piedmont and West Virginia as a whole.

For those interested in learning more about the life and achievements of Henry Gassaway Davis, there is another historic home that once served as his summer residence - Graceland, located in Elkins, West Virginia. This property offers an even more intimate glimpse into the life of this influential figure, providing a unique opportunity to experience the opulence and grandeur that defined the era of Americas industrial giants.

As you leave the Henry Gassaway Davis House, you cant help but feel a sense of wonder at the incredible journey of the man who built it - from humble beginnings to becoming one of West Virginias most influential figures. The house stands as a testament to his legacy and serves as an unforgettable reminder of Americas industrial past.