Teele Square | Somerville

Abram's Delight is a historic house located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It is recognized as the oldest surviving house in the city.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a two-story, five-bay Georgian-style house constructed primarily of brick. The exterior features a symmetrical facade with a central entrance. The roof is hipped, and the windows are double-hung with nine-over-nine panes. The brickwork exhibits a Flemish bond pattern. Interior details include original woodwork and fireplaces.

Location & Access Logistics

Abram's Delight is situated at 416 Caroline Street in Fredericksburg, Virginia. It is located within the downtown historic district, approximately 0.5km west of the Rappahannock River. Parking is available in public lots along Caroline Street and adjacent streets. The Fredericksburg VRE station is located 1km north, with bus routes serving Caroline Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed around 1720 by Abram Hite, a prominent local landowner and surveyor. It served as his residence and a center for his land dealings. The property's origin is tied to the early colonial settlement of Fredericksburg.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the interior of the house to observe its preserved architectural features and furnishings. Interpretive displays detail the life of Abram Hite and the early history of Fredericksburg. Exterior grounds offer a space for viewing the historic architecture.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this downtown area. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a short walking distance on Caroline Street.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the exterior is during the morning or late afternoon when sunlight provides optimal illumination of the brickwork. The house is open for tours year-round, with moderate visitor numbers typically observed outside of major holiday weekends.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Abram Hite was involved in surveying land for George Washington's family. Local lore suggests that the house has remained remarkably intact due to its solid construction and continuous ownership by families who valued its historical significance.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mary Washington House (0.3km Northwest)
• Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park Visitor Center (1.2km Southwest)
• Historic Kenmore Plantation (1.5km Northwest)
• James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library (0.4km North)
• Fredericksburg City Hall (0.2km West)