Exploring Historic New London, Virginia

Located in Bedford County is the small but significant town of New London. Full of rich history dating back to the civil war and 1700s, historic New London has much to offer to those who wish to visit. Recently, my Intro to Historic Preservation class at Liberty University did just that. We spent several hours touring the historic buildings and learning all about the history encompassed within them. As an interior design major, it was very insightful seeing the historical evidence that these buildings each hold.

Historical buildings such as the Bedford Alum Springs Hotel and Mead's Tavern hosted many guests of significance. One well known President resided in Bedford county following his presidency in the 1770s and another founding father gave his famous speech here.

As a student at Liberty University, I am blessed with many cool opportunities that allow me to experience places and things that many do not get to see. In my senior history class, Introduction to Historical Preservation, the main agenda is to explore historical sites in Lynchburg. and learn about their contributions to the area as well as how they are actively being restored and preserved for future generations.

More recently, my class traveled to New London, Virginia. While there, we toured the Bedford Alum Springs Hotel and Mead's Tavern. Each of these historic sites are within ten to fifteen minutes driving distance from Liberty University's main campus and are within walking distance from each other.

Friends of New London

Though it was a rainy, chilly day in January, it was very insightful, as an interior design student to listen to Friends of New London member and local archeologist, Randy Lichtenberger talk about the history of the interior in both the hotel and the tavern.

In 2005, Friends of New London was an organization created by local residents who wanted to preserve the land. In 2012, the organization bought Mead's Tavern and worked to restore it for three years before handing it over to Liberty University, who purchased it in 2015.

Liberty University purchased Mead's Tavern with the goal of restoring the building and allowing students to have a more hands on experience by studying the history in the building.

Mead's Tavern

Mead's Tavern has great historical significance for many reasons. The main purpose was to serve as a crucial stopping place for travelers. Located on a major trade route, William Mead purchased the property in 1763 and operated the building as a tavern until the 1780s. Samuel T Miller and his mother Ann, later purchased the building and turned it into a school for girls. Between this time and 2012, the building also served as an insurance office, doctor's office and minister's home. There is great history within this building alone.

Bedford Alum Springs Hotel

In the 1700s, the Bedford Alum Springs hotel was purchased by William Callaway, who is arguably the founder of New London. During this time, he contributed over 100 acres of land to the Virginia General Assembly for the creation of a new town. In 1754, it was founded as New London and the first county seat of Bedford County. Though today, it is primarily located in Campbell County, it is important to note its origin in Bedford.

Many famous figures in history visited the town of New London. Many local residents are unaware of the rich history within this.

One of the most hidden facts regarding the town of New London, is that Patrick Henry gave his famous "beef speech" in the court house here. In 1783, towards the end of the Revolutionary war, John Venable was accused by John Hook of taking two of his cows for the troops. Founding father, and loyalist, Patrick Henry, sided with John Venable and deemed him as an honorable man. He also made a fool of John Hook, though the law was clearly in favor of Hook.

From his famous speech are the words of Patrick Henry "But hark! What notes of discord are those which disturb the general joy, and silence the acclamations of victory? They are the notes of John Hook, hoarsely bawling through the American camp, Beef! Beef! Beef!” This led to the courthouse erupting in laughter and securing the win for John Venable.

Lastly, Bedford county is significant as it was the home of President Thomas Jefferson after his presidency. Daniel Boone also resided here and contributed to the rich history that historic New London has to offer.

Interior of the entryway/living room area in Mead's Tavern. Currently in the process of being renovated. Still contains original windows and wallpaper.

Lower level of Mead's Tavern. Currently being explored by local archeologists to discover more history. Paint analysis to be conducted to study layers of paint and wallpaper within building.

Ceiling and light design in Bedford Alum Springs Hotel. Prominent light fixtures and patterned ceilings with designs such as this one often represented wealth and significance in a building and its ownership

References

Boydstun, A. (2020, May 3). Historic New London, VA. Mysite 1. Retrieved February 25, 2023, from https://www.becausehistory.net/post/historic-new-london-va

Mead's tavern. Chronology of New London, Virginia. (2018, December 11). Retrieved February 25, 2023, from https://chronologyofnewlondon.wordpress.com/meads-tavern/