Edge Hill (Shadwell, Virginia)

Edge Hill is a historic estate located near Shadwell, Virginia, in Albemarle County. Primarily known as the former estate of Thomas Jefferson's granddaughter, Ellen Wayles Coolidge, and her husband, Joseph Coolidge Jr., Edge Hill played a significant role in their lives and the broader agricultural landscape of the region.

The Coolidges acquired the property in the early 19th century and developed it into a productive plantation. Joseph Coolidge Jr. was a progressive agriculturalist for his time, experimenting with new farming techniques and crop diversification. The estate's lands were used for growing various crops, including wheat, corn, and tobacco. Enslaved labor was integral to the operation of the plantation.

During the Civil War, Edge Hill faced considerable challenges. While the details are limited, as with many estates in the region, the war years likely brought disruptions to agricultural production and social upheaval.

After the Civil War, Edge Hill transitioned through different ownerships. The property's subsequent history reflects the changing economic and social landscape of Albemarle County during the late 19th and 20th centuries. The house itself underwent various modifications and renovations over the years.

Today, Edge Hill remains a privately owned property. Its historical significance lies in its association with the Coolidge family, its agricultural history, and its connection to the broader narrative of plantation life in Virginia. The estate serves as a physical reminder of the region's past.