"Swannanoa"

 residence, NRHP - National Register of Historic Places, interesting place, Italianate style (architecture), historic landmark, 1912_construction

Major James Dooley, an executive with the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad Company, completed construction of the $2 million "Swannanoa" in 1912. Dooley, who owned the Maymont estate is Richmond, built this 52-room marble palace as a token of love for his wife, Sally May. It was designed by William C. Noland. More than 300 artisans were hired to create the palace as a replica of the Villa de Medici in Rome. They used the highest quality materials available. Visitors today can still see the depth of James and Sally May's relationship is places like the 4,000 piece Tiffany stained-glass window and a domed ceiling bearing the likeness of Mrs. Dooley. The name "Swannanoa" comes from Mrs. Dooley's fondness for swans, which she liked because they choose their mates for a lifetime.

The property is under renovation and plans are to re-open the palace as a bed and breakfast and meeting facility. It is open for group tours, weddings and other events. For information or to plan a group tour, contact Phil Dulaney at 540-942-5201

www.atlasobscura.com/places/swannanoa-palace
www.nelsoncounty.com/visit/swannanoa
www.rightgood.com/log/2004/09/rural-virginia-revisited....