Petersburg Attractions

The Centre Hill Mansion located in Petersburg was built in 1823 and has been restored to its former glory. The mansion is outfitted in period pieces and decorated in the fashions of the early 19th Century. It is considered one of the grandest homes in the city.

The Farmers Bank of Virginia opened it's branch in Petersburg in 1817, just five years after it was incorporated. It operated until the Civil War, at which time the bank was forced to liquidate and the building became a private home. Visitors can visit the old Farmers Bank to see displays on the banks history and old banking equipment.

The Old Blandford Church and Reception Center in Petersburg is a memorial to Confederate soldiers killed in the civil war. The church displays stained glass windows, donated by each of the Confederate states as a tribute to these men.

The Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier located in Petersburg provides one of the best insights into the lives of the 3 million soldiers that fought in the war. The museum is very technologically advanced and features the latest in computer-assisted displays. Costumed interpreters play out the roles and can answer just about any question asked of them.

The interesting Siege Museum located in Petersburg is well worth a visit if not for the articles and history inside then for the building itself. Built between 1839 and 1841, the Greek revival style building has been restored to its former glory. Inside are fascinating items related to the 10-month siege of Petersburg during the US Civil War. The museum features several permanent exhibits along with a regular rotation of traveling national and international exhibits.

Fans of unusual architecture should be sure to visit the Trapezium House located in Petersburg. This strangely shaped house was built by an equally strange man, Charles O'Hara. Historical accounts say that Mr. O'Hara counted a pet monkey, parrot, and a white rat as his best friends. The house is unique in the fact that it has no right angles. Everything is on an angle in this house, which most visitors will find somewhat unsettling.