Richmond's Court End

In the early nineteenth century, gorgeous mansions constructed of brick and stone were built in the well-to-do Court End neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia.

During the Civil War, several prominent Confederate politicians lived in Court End. In fact, it's where the White House of the Confederacy was located. Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, resided in the grand home until the end of the war. Almost demolished in 1890, it's now part of the American Civil War Museum.

But many historic buildings and the surrounding land have not been protected from development and destruction. Some groups want to tear down reminders of the Confederacy.

In Richmond's Court End, author Francis Marion Bush contends that this historic district in Richmond should be restored, and the histories of the buildings and people should be remembered. In the book, he provides plenty of research, historic accounts from Court End residents, and facts about the state of the neighborhood today.

It's a fascinating read for history and Civil War buffs.