89HP0427
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November-~1,-1989-P€&€P€
Beeember-i3,-1989-BS
January 10, 1990 BS
REQUEST ANALYSIS
AND
RECOMMENDATION
89HP0427
Physic Hill
Matoaca Magisterial District
This property is located on property fronting the northeast line of Physic Hill
Road and is better known as 14300 Physic Hill Road.
BACKGROUND
The exact original appearance is not known, but photographs in the late 1800's
are similar to appearance today. The original house was a story and a half on
English basement (circa 1815), with the wing added (circa 1824).
This is an excellent example of a large farmhouse built in the Federal period.
The house has a high raised basement of three-course American bond. The north
chimney and doctor's office chimney are original. Much original detailing
remains in the side passage area. Double-leaf front doors with two-tier
transoms, a Federal mantel with sunburst paterae, many original floorboards,
openstrung winder stairs with two (2) original closets. Stairs are decorated
with sawn tread brackets, a curving wall string, and a ramped, molded banister.
"Physic Hill" was a working plantation and home to two (2) families of physi-
cians who were prominent and distinguished residents of Chesterfield. Legend
has it that slaves were brought here for examinations by Dr. Walke prior to
their auction. A chapel was on the original tract of land. People in this area
came to see the doctor at this office behind the house and also to worship. The
legend that Robert E. Lee came here remains unproven, but Civil War artifacts
have been found near the house (i.e. belt buckles, buttons, bullets).
RECOMMENDATION
Planning staff recommends approval of landmark designation for Physic Hill based
on the following findings:
1. This is a distinguished building of high architectural quality and
historic interest; and
2. This designation will cause no significant adverse effect on the
future development of the County.
The designated property shall be as follows:
Tax Map 109-5 (4) Physic Hill, Section C, Block F, Lot 10.
CASE HISTORY
Planning Commission and Preservation Committee Joint Public Hearing (11/21/89):
Mr. Jacobson presented the background information. He stated that the
house was an excellent example of a large farm house that was built in the
Federal Period.
There was no opposition present.
On motion of Mr. Bryan Walker, seconded by Mr. Zane Davis, the Preservation
Committee resolved to recommend approval of landmark designation for Case
89HP0427, Physic Hill.
The Preservation Committee resolved to recommend approval of landmark
designation for Physic Hill based on the following findings:
1. This is a distinguished building of high architectural quality
and historic interest; and
2. This designation will cause no significant adverse effect on the
future development of the County.
The designated property shall be as follows:
Tax Map 109-5 (4) Physic Hill, Section C, Block F, Lot 10.
AYES: Unanimous.
On motion of Mr. Belcher, seconded by Mr. Warren, the Planning Commission
resolved to recommend approval of historic landmark designation for Case
89HP0427, Physic Hill.
The Planning Commission resolved to recommend approval of landmark
designation for Physic Hill based on the following findings:
1. This is a distinguished building of high architectural quality
and historic interest; and
2. This designation will cause no significant adverse effect on the
future development of the County.
The designated property shall be as follows:
Tax Map 109-5 (4) Physic Hill, Section C, Block F, Lot 10.
AYES: Unanimous.
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CASE HISTORY
Board of Supervisors Meeting (12/13/89):
Due to an advertising error, the Board deferred this case to January 10,
1990. .
The Board of Supervisors on Wednesday, January 10, 1990, beginning at 2:00 p.m.,
will take under consideration this request.
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89HP0427
PHYSIC HILL
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