Stonewall Manor | Rocky Mount

Stonewall Manor – Comprehensive Detailed Overview

Historical Background

Stonewall Manor, originally known as Little Falls Plantation, is a historically significant antebellum plantation estate located near Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The manor was constructed circa 1830 by Bennett Bunn, a wealthy planter and prominent figure in the region during the early 19th century. The plantation played a notable role in the agricultural economy of Eastern North Carolina during the antebellum period, relying heavily on enslaved labor for the cultivation of crops such as tobacco, cotton, and corn.

This plantation estate stands as a stark reminder of the deeply rooted history of slavery and plantation culture in the American South. In recent years, efforts by local historians, educators, and students have helped document and honor the enslaved individuals who lived and worked at Stonewall Manor. These initiatives aim to bring awareness to the often overlooked human stories behind the grandeur of such historic estates.

Architectural Features

Stonewall Manor is an exemplary representation of Federal-style architecture, notable for its symmetry, proportion, and classic detailing. The key architectural highlights include:

Structure: The manor is a two-story brick building, designed with five bays across the front facade.

Raised Basement: The house rests on a raised basement, elevating the main living spaces above ground level, a common feature for Southern plantation homes of the era to protect against flooding and improve ventilation.

Roof: It has a high, hipped roof, which adds to the imposing and balanced aesthetic.

Portico: A distinctive pedimented Ionic portico, added in 1915, fronts the house, enhancing its classical appearance with elegant columns and decorative detailing typical of the Ionic order.

Setting: The manor is beautifully situated on grounds surrounded by a mature oak grove and offers scenic views overlooking the nearby Tar River. This landscape reflects the plantation’s historical setting, combining natural beauty with architectural grandeur.

The manor’s design emphasizes both functionality for plantation life and the display of wealth and status of the owners. Its preservation offers a tangible link to 19th-century architectural styles and plantation culture.

Social and Cultural Context

Stonewall Manor was the center of a large plantation economy supported by enslaved African Americans whose labor sustained the agricultural output. The site holds deep historical importance because it reflects the intertwined realities of privilege and oppression in the antebellum South.

In recent years, community projects have focused on uncovering and honoring the histories of the enslaved people at Stonewall. In 2022, a notable project led by Nash Central High School students meticulously researched public archives, auction records, land deeds, and other documents to identify and record the names of enslaved individuals connected to Stonewall. This work contributes to a growing movement to acknowledge the full history of plantation sites by including the narratives of those whose lives were shaped by enslavement.

Current Use and Public Engagement

Today, Stonewall Manor functions as a historic site that supports a variety of cultural and social activities, aiming to preserve its legacy while engaging the public with the past. Key aspects of its contemporary use include:

Historic Tours: Visitors can explore the manor and grounds through guided tours, which provide detailed insights into the architecture, plantation life, and historical significance.

Event Venue: The manor serves as an elegant venue for weddings, receptions, family gatherings, teas, and photography sessions. Its picturesque setting with historic charm makes it a popular location for special events.

Educational Programs: The site hosts educational events and programs designed to inform visitors about plantation history, the lives of enslaved people, and regional culture in Eastern North Carolina.

Community Involvement: Stonewall Manor actively engages with local history projects and collaborates with historians and educators to foster a deeper understanding of the complex social histories tied to the estate.

Visitor Information

Location: Stonewall Manor is located at 1331 Stonewall Lane, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, positioned conveniently near the city while retaining a rural and historic atmosphere.

Access: The manor is typically open to the public for scheduled tours, special events, and private functions. Visitors should check availability and hours ahead of time as they can vary depending on events.

Admission: Admission fees for tours or events vary, with special event pricing differing accordingly. Advance reservations are recommended for group visits or private events.

Facilities: The estate includes ample grounds for outdoor activities and photography, with well-maintained landscaping emphasizing the historic nature of the property.

Preservation and Significance

Stonewall Manor is listed on the National Register of Historic Places (added in 1970), recognizing its architectural integrity and cultural importance. Preservation efforts have focused on maintaining the original features of the house and grounds while allowing adaptive reuse for public education and community events.

The manor represents an essential chapter in North Carolina’s history, embodying both the grandeur and the painful realities of plantation life. It stands as a valuable educational resource, encouraging reflection on the social dynamics of the antebellum South, including the lives of enslaved Africans and their descendants.

Summary

Stonewall Manor is a carefully preserved antebellum plantation home that offers rich historical, architectural, and cultural experiences. Its stately Federal-style architecture and scenic setting alongside the Tar River reflect 19th-century plantation elegance. Simultaneously, the manor’s history as a working plantation supported by enslaved labor invites deeper exploration into the social and economic realities of the era.

Through tours, educational programs, and community initiatives, Stonewall Manor serves as a bridge between past and present, fostering understanding of regional heritage and honoring the legacy of all individuals connected to its history. It remains a vital destination for those interested in American history, architecture, and cultural preservation in Eastern North Carolina.