For additional information, read the Nomination Form PDF
VLR Listing Date 06/17/1998
NRHP Listing Date 04/14/2000
NRHP Reference Number 00000311
Built in 1853 by William B. Standard, the original design of Ben Dover is most associated with architect Richard Upjohns. Ben Dover’s most notable inhabitant, William T. Reed, Sr., transformed the Italian Villa house into a 1920’s Colonial Revival mansion. Reed, a close advisor to Governor Harry Byrd, headed a committee formed to reassess the efficiency of Virginia state government in the 1920s. Reed played a major role in abolishing what was perceived as unnecessary bureaucracy, resulting in reduced taxes, a balanced budget, and a surplus. Charles Lindbergh landed his plane in a Ben Dover field during one of his many visits with Reed.
Abbreviations:
VLR: Virginia Landmarks Register
NPS: National Park Service
NRHP: National Register of Historic Places
NHL: National Historic Landmark
Updated September 28, 2020
