Withstanding The Test of Time
By Tina Price

     “We were looking for an older home, around the turn of the century,” started Emily Mason.
     Emily, with her husband Buddy, and their four children, purchased their home two years ago.  What makes their home so special is that it is the second oldest structure in Franklin County. 
     The structure, circa 1808, is beautifully accented with 11 ft. ceilings within the main level and upstairs.
     “It is an important house, not only the historical aspects, but the architectural ones that are unique to both Franklin County and Virginia,” stated Emily.
     The house, once thought to be constructed in 1834, was given an earlier date based on the structure and architectural design.  It is similar in shape to the Holland Duncan House, which Creative Design Services and Lyndis’ occupies, in that both are L shaped.
     A floating staircase that is both elegant and distinct makes visitors visualize the past, imagining the parlors filled with southern debutants and gentlemen.
     “The house saw the Civil War.  It has a lot of history, and it withstood the time,” explained Emily.
     Gigantic, spacious rooms, approximately 20x20, are what make this house extraordinary.  With many of the original moldings, five fireplaces, four bedrooms, 2 kitchens, a formal living room, a formal dining room, a foyer, and a sunroom, this house is more than a mansion.
     Inside the walls of the historical structure, they have 3 and 1/2 bathrooms tucked away that are stylishly disguised into the surroundings. Not only does it have a two-story foyer, which allows you to look all the way up, but also two period light fixtures that are reproductions, giving the whole house a sense of authenticity.
     “It’s great living in history, but I like my modern conveniences,” explained Emily.
     One of the modern conveniences that Emily speaks about is the modern kitchen.
     “None of that (the minor changes for convenience) takes away from it,” Emily added.
     Even though every owner added their touch and spin to the interior in the past, I must admit that it still breathes historical charm.
     Along the grounds there is a family graveyard, garden, and lovely landscaping.
     “Even the formal English rose garden is surviving, in spite of me,” joked Emily.
     Another touch of charm is the deep rich cherry wood doors that breathe life into each room.
     And, to those history buffs out there reading, I have news for you.  This historical structure is up for sale.  Pat Bailey of CB Rentals and Coldwell Banker is the realtor in charge and can be reached at 721-3323.
     “They will fall in love with it,” commented Bailey.
     Future open houses are being considered that will enable the public to view the house that some call the Solomon Pasley Mansion, while others know it as Edgemeade.  Edgemeade was the name of the structure when it was used as a Resident Psychiatric Center for delinquent and emotionally disturbed boys.
     If those walls could talk, I’m sure it would have some interesting tales to speak of.  This structure lives and breathes history and stories.
     Another story, another time.