We enjoyed our time off on our anniversary this year by visiting a nearby antebellum plantation called Rippavilla. Owned by French Huguenot descendant and Southern gentleman Nathaniel Francis Cheairs, IV (who also rode alongside General Forrest), this massive Greek-revival style mansion was constructed before the War of Northern Aggression and even saw some action during the war as a military headquarters and make-shift hospital for the wounded. Below are some of our favourite snapshots from the day.
A Commanding Presence — The Front View of the Mansion
Melissa and Calvin Rest in the Side Garden
Family Shot at Rippavilla
Welcome to the Historic Rippavilla Plantation — Established Circa 1852
Aspiring Botanist Calvin Turley Examining the Flora in the Rippavilla Front Lawn
One of 15 Slave Houses on the Property (As Many as 75 Slaves Resided on the Plantation)
The Cheairs Family Cemetery in the Back of the Property
