Renovations begin on the Meredith House

Big changes are coming to the Meredith House in Jackson Ward. Vacant and suffering damage from fire and the elements, construction work on the house began this week. Architectural work will be provided by Ark Construction, who plans to renovate the property from the foundation up, including all electrical systems, the addition of the missing west chimney and replication of the missing front porch. Once all said work is completed, the Meredith House will be restored to its original appearance of the 1930s.

This is an exciting time for the residents of Jackson Ward. This historic landmark welcomes those who enter into the Jackson Ward neighborhood. Once all work is completed, this renovation will continue to help beautify the neighborhood.

The Historic Richmond Foundation wrote that the Meridith House is:

located one block north of the Armory, 133 West Jackson Street is the second oldest house in Jackson Ward. Built before 1813, 133 West Jackson Street was built for and by William Mann. Mann also built the Hawes house on Leigh Street. The house is a frame, Federal, two story, four bay townhouse. The easternmost bay is a later addition with a later porch. The house is known as the Meredith house in honor of coach maker William Meredith and his family who lived in the home from 1856-1897. It is not until the early twentieth century that the home takes its place among Richmond’s African American history.

The Meredith House, under renovation, August 8, 2012. Photos by Anthony Nesossis.