Situated on one of the six historic properties in Scottsville, Chester and its seven-acre setting evokes a feeling of serenity and charm for all those who visit. As you approach, the first sight of the white wooden fence says you are here. Skirting the fence, you get your first views of the grounds and the original Greek Revival style Manor House. The main house, built in 1847 and later expanded, still exudes the charm which would have greeted guests arriving in carriages 175 years ago. The space Turning into the property, the brick columns stand as silent sentinels outlining the path to your destination. As the gravel driveway crunches beneath your tires, the noise of the city is replaced by the special sounds of this retreat. Instead of high-rise buildings, the pecan and walnut trees tower over the cottage. Over 40 different types of trees exist along with various flowering fauna, which ensure something is almost always in bloom. On many days, you can hear the wind amongst the swaying forest of limbs. In the evening or early morning, just look up and be amazed at the stars you can see without all the city lights. You might even catch a shooting star to make a wish on. On some summer evenings, the fireflies fill the trees with twinkling lights as in a magic fairyland. Walking up to the west porch, you are greeted by a white picket fence bordered by azaleas, dogwoods, and lilies which adorn the area with colors in spring or greenery later in the season. Entering the code, you are welcomed by the stenciled hardwood floors and a feeling of quaint comfort. Turning into the living room, the expansive space exudes charm with two couches for lounging, a television for streaming, and a wonderful cozy nook for curling up with a good book or tablet. Be mindful to address the Queen. The updated kitchen is modern with accents of old-world charm. All the essentials are here for preparing and sharing snacks to full meals. Seating for up to six at the rustic table means everyone can visit with the cook, dine together, and discuss the day’s activities. Returning to the living room, you pass the first of two shower equipped bathrooms. Once through the living room, you head upstairs. At the top of the stairs, the second bathroom is situated to provided access for the cottage’s two bedrooms. As for bedrooms, the choice is yours. Left enters a spacious and luxurious primary bedroom where the king bed and plush bedding beckons you to drop your bags and collapse. A sitting and work area provide the options for late evening quiet repose or for catching up on the day’s events. Had you turned right, you would have entered an equally spacious second bedroom with two full beds. The cottage offers plenty of space for up to six guests. So, family members, friends, or couples can comfortably rest after the trip or event filled days. Hopefully you will enjoy your time at The Butler’s Cottage and in this beautiful part of Virginia. When you drive away hearing that distinctive gravel crunch and re-tracing the fenced road until out of sight, hopefully a fond memory will remain and beckon you to return for another stay. Guest access The cottage provides keyless check-in and entry and parking for up to two cars. Guests may park in front of the cottage to unload, and then take advantage of one of the parking spaces next to the garage. Other things to note The land on which Chester sits was originally part of a large land lot owned by John Scott, founder of Scottsville. In 1846 the land was sold to Joseph Wright, an Englishman who was a retired landscape gardener, who promptly built the manor house. The name commemorates his English home of Chester. Although there are no ghosts, the property has witnessed Scottsville’s history and is part of the Civil War story. During the early years and those proceeding the conflict Chester was known as one of the towns “party houses”. Author Virginia Moore lists Chester along with other grand homes as a place of “picnics, dinner parties, quilting parties, teas and dances.” In 1865 when Sheridan and his troops raided the town, Major James Christian Hill of the Confederate Army was lying wounded at Chester. As Virginia Moore writes it, Sheridan, taking Colonel Custer with him “went to see Major Hill lying wounded at Chester. No, he decided, he would not arrest the dying man. The Major would trick him by getting well.” And the house survived unscathed. The property was once classified as a private arboretum, boasting over 50 varieties of trees and shrubs. Most of which remain today. Enjoying the Grounds For those just wanting peace and relaxation, start your day with a warm cup of coffee on one of the cottage’s two porches. Rockers on the north porch invite guests to sway along with the trees in the gentle breeze. From there, the tulip poplar majestically dominates the view. Its unique flowering petals provide a whimsical effect to soften the spectacular size of the tree itself. Featured in Hearth and Plow magazine, the swing still offers a chance to return to the innocent days of youth. The quiet of the estate is enhanced by the rhythmic, peaceful sound of the fountain at the Koi pond. Take some time to relax under the umbrella or take in some sun. Dozing off would certainly be understandable. Passing the Koi pond and tulip poplar, you walk along a hedge of boxwoods planted over 100 years before. Secluded in a private space behind them next to the house stands one of the largest holly trees in Albemarle County. A singular tall pine tree stands as if supervising the other trees dividing the west and north sections of the grounds. Coming around the front of the Manor House, you pass a beautiful huge magnolia as you come back in front of the cottage. Other nature residents are part of the property’s charm. A herd of white tail deer comes out of the ravine on most days to feed and amble around the grounds. Skittish, they will likely run off if they notice you. With all the trees around, you’d expect to see a variety of birds. Robins, blue jays, cardinals, mockingbirds, hawks, and a pair of doves among others can frequently be seen. On those early morning strolls, you probably won’t see it, but you might hear the call of an owl in the ravine. The squirrels prefer the pecan and walnut trees, but you’ll see them scampering around as well. Twice a year, in late April and October, the “chimney” swifts return to Chester. So named as they only nest in chimneys, the swifts dart here and there high above and then began their descent into the chimneys on the Manor House. They are amazing to watch, forming a feathered funnel over the house and breaking off in specific order known only to them until the entire flock is nestled in for the evening. Although the Manor House and its porches are a private residence, we invite you to stroll and enjoy Chester’s grounds or take in a game of crocket, badminton, or Bocce ball. Since The Butler’s Cottage is next door to the Manor House, you’ll likely see the owners out and about. And although pets are not permitted, you will see the “Ground’s Warden,” a pointer named Rucker, patrolling the perimeter with one of the owners. Feel free to wave or say hello, but they’ll try not to impose on your quiet enjoyment.