The White House of the Confederacy

As we continue to deliver on our mission to explore, inspire and promote understanding of the Civil War, we remain very thankful for the generosity of our patrons that allows us to continue providing educational programming and expanding our world-class collection of artifacts. The White House of the Confederacy is our largest artifact, and restoration of this National Historic Landmark is one of the key goals of the American Civil War Museum. 

In 1818 the president of the First Bank of Virginia, John Brockenbrough, commissioned legendary architect Robert Mills—the man behind the Washington Monument, the U.S. Treasury Building, and Richmond’s Monumental Church—to design his home. The resulting property is still one of the finest examples of 19th-century American architecture in the city and has stood as a witness to history for over 200 years. Serving as the Confederate Executive Mansion, the Headquarters of Union forces during post-Civil War reconstruction, and one of the first public schools in Richmond post-Civil War, the house at 1201 East Clay Street has seen two centuries of American and Richmond history. 

Restoring a structure with such a storied history is an ongoing commitment. The impeccable facilities team of the ACWM contend with the ever-present foes of historic homes—moisture and UV light—masterfully, but the resources your contribution can provide will allow them to ensure this iconic home remains accessible for generations to come. To donate or to learn more about ways you can consider supporting the White House of the Confederacy restoration project, please contact Grace Powers, Manager of Donor Relations (804.649.1861, ext. 133 | gpowers@acwm.org).