Somerville Museum | Somerville

The Gari Melchers Home & Studio is a historic house museum located in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

It preserves the estate of American artist Gari Melchers, including his residence and studio.

Visual Characteristics

The main house is a large, two-story Georgian Revival structure constructed of brick. It features white trim, a central portico with columns, and a slate roof. The studio building is a simpler, rectangular brick structure with large windows designed to maximize natural light. The grounds include formal gardens, mature trees, and open lawn areas.

Location & Access Logistics

The Gari Melchers Home & Studio is situated at 224 Washington Street in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) south of the downtown Fredericksburg historic district. On-site parking is available for visitors. Public transport options to the immediate vicinity are limited; bus routes typically serve the downtown area, requiring a walk or short taxi ride to the property.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The property was acquired by Gari Melchers in 1916. The main house, known as Belmont, was originally built in the late 18th century and significantly remodeled by Melchers. The studio was constructed by Melchers to house his extensive art collection and provide workspace. The site's origin predates Melchers, with evidence of settlement dating back to the colonial period.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the historic house, which contains Melchers' personal belongings and art collection. The studio building is also open for exploration, showcasing his workspace and a significant portion of his artwork. Guided tours are available, providing detailed information about Melchers' life and work. The grounds and gardens can be explored independently.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Shaded areas are present within the gardens and under mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. There are no on-site food vendors, but dining options are available in nearby downtown Fredericksburg.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior and grounds is generally late morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is less direct. The most pleasant months for visiting are April through October, offering mild weather suitable for exploring the grounds. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

Gari Melchers was a prolific artist known for his portraits and genre scenes. He spent a significant portion of his career in Europe before returning to his native Virginia. A notable aspect of the collection is Melchers' extensive acquisition of Dutch and Flemish Old Master paintings, which he displayed alongside his own work.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park (1.2km Northwest)
• Mary Washington House (1.0km North)
• Historic Downtown Fredericksburg (1.5km North)
• Kenmore Plantation & Gardens (1.8km Northeast)