Customer Reviews

The Architecture of Jefferson Country: Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia

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Beautifully written and thoroughly researched, this book offers a glimpse into the history of the architecture of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Virginia. Additionally, the reader can learn of the fascinating personalities who have lived and worked within the walls of these works of art. It is a lifetime endeavor and a real treat for the local, the traveller, the Jefferson enthusiast and the historian.

This book reminds me of Maral Kalbian's beautiful book, "Frederick County, Virginia: History through Architecture."

The author of this book (as opposed to Kalbian's) has included a more comprehensive narrative history, and many lovely color photographs, to make the book appealing to both student and enthusiast alike. Written is largely narrative style, this book is not a catalog, per se. It does, however, include discussion of the most important sites in Albemarle County and Charlottesville, including the mighty University of Virginia and Monticello. The best thing about it is that it will bring your attention to many other important sites that you probably didn't know about, even if you went to UVA.

On the cusp of colonial settlement, but firmly planted by the early Republican period, this part of Virginia illustrates the architectural transformation from the colonial Tidewater to the Federal up-country. The book captures that transformation, similar to what Rhys Isaac wrote, as rendered in the built environment.

Your library of Virginia architecture is incomplete without this book.

This book is a must for anyone interested in Albemarle County, Charlottesville, Fluvanna County and Thomas Jefferson.

With superior research and almost 50 years of knowledge, Ed Lay lays out a lasting foundation for anyone wanting to learn more about our extraordinary part of America.

Pictures and text help to describe his thoughts and the architecture.

Buy this book!

Toby Beavers
Fine Virginia Farms & Estates
http://www.Charlottesville-Area-Real-Estate.com