Welcome Lafayette!!

It’s official – the Hill House Museum is all decked out for Lafayette’s visit!

A special thank you to Julie Dunn for her incredible vision in bringing the Hill House to life for the upcoming Lafayette October events! Her creativity is shaping a beautiful experience for all who attend. Also, a big thank you to Sam Gilchrist for crafting the stunning decorations for the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit, adding a truly memorable touch to this historic celebration.

We encourage everyone to check out the exciting events happening at the Hill House in October, and be sure to stop by to enjoy the festivities centered around the Bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit to Portsmouth.

Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this special celebration and once in a lifetime experience. 

Nancy Collins Silver Set

While the Hill House Museum boasts no shortage of china, one standout piece in our collection is this elegant sterling silver tea set once owned by Ann Lucretia Collins Nash—fondly remembered as Nancy Collins in her youth. As the younger sister of Dr. William Collins and the great-aunt of the prominent Hill siblings, Nancy played an interesting role in local history. At just 15 years old, she was selected to present a wreath and formally welcome General Lafayette at the City Arch during his memorable visit to Portsmouth on October 25, 1824. This silver set stands as a cherished memento of her distinguished family legacy and the historic occasion.   

Lafayette Garden Find

In 2012, during an archaeological dig in the Hill House Gardens, a wealth of artifacts was unearthed. Among them was a water pitcher commemorating Lafayette’s 1824-25 visit to the United States, depicting “Lafayette Visiting Franklin’s Tomb.” Most of the pieces were recovered, and the pitcher was carefully reconstructed. This find suggests the commemorative china pattern, produced between 1825-1830, was once part of the Hill House collection before 1850. Recently, the museum had the opportunity to acquire a commemorative 1820s coffee and tea set featuring the same pattern. Stop by in October to see this beautiful set in person.

Welcome Lafayette!

Throughout October, the Hill House Museum will explore the captivating history of General Lafayette’s visit to Portsmouth in 1824, and the lasting legacy of the Hill family through a series of lectures and events.  We have a full calendar of events planned for October at the Hill House Museum.

Starting this month, we will be sharing weekly posts featuring facts and history about Lafayette’s 1824 visit to Portsmouth as well as the Hill family’s involvement. Recently uncovered research has revealed new links between the Hill family's ancestors and Lafayette’s historic visit, promising an enriching experience for all who visit the museum in October.   Stay tuned for more Lafayette history throughout September…. Welcome Lafayette!

Seabreeze Farm

Come explore the Seabreeze Farm photo exhibit and discover why this setting on the Lynnhaven Bay, held such a special place in the Hill family's hearts.  Stop by the Hill House Museum during the month of August for a tour on Wednesdays and Saturdays and check out this exhibit ending at the end of this month. Through these captivating images, experience the magic and allure of Seabreeze Farm for yourself.