Nestled in the heart of Blacksburg, Virginia, the Alexander Black House is a testament to the town’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Read till the end to see the beautiful transformation photos of the home.
History of Alexander Black House
This distinguished historical house, built around 1897 in the Queen Anne Victorian style, showcases the vision of Alexander Black, a prominent businessman and great-great-grandson of the town’s founder, Samuel Black.
The original structure reflected the prevailing architectural trends of its time, characterized by steep cross-gabled roofs, intricate gingerbread trim, towers, and vertical windows.
However, tragedy struck when the first Black family home succumbed to fire.
Undeterred, Alexander Black seized the opportunity to build a new residence that would not only serve as a family dwelling but also stand as a symbol of success in the small southwestern Virginia town.
For nearly four decades, the Black family lived in this Queen Anne Victorian masterpiece until Alexander Black’s passing in 1935.
Following his death, the house took on a new role as a funeral home until 2002.
During this period, the structure underwent modifications to accommodate its new function, including enclosing the wraparound porch and changing the interior layout.
Relocation to Draper Road
The turning point in the Alexander Black House’s history came in 2002 when the Town of Blacksburg acquired the property to prevent its demolition.
This house was then moved across Draper Road to its current location, marking the beginning of an extensive restoration and expansion project led by the Virginia-based architectural firm Glavé & Holmes Architecture.
The restoration aimed to revitalize the historic residence, converting it into the Alexander Black House & Cultural Center.
Before Renovation
After Renovation
Restoration Video
More Photos
The project meticulously restored the house’s exterior to its original late-19th-century splendor, reversing changes from its time as a funeral home.
This careful work achieved a harmonious mix of historical integrity and modern utility.
The project also included a new contractual rear addition designed to provide accessibility between the residence’s main levels.
During the restoration, Glavé & Holmes Architecture focused on maintaining the building’s historical essence by minimizing interior reconfiguration and utilizing original materials wherever feasible.
The Alexander Black House as Cultural Venue
The Alexander Black House & Cultural Center, which opened its restored first floor to the public in August 2014, now serves as a museum, gallery, and meeting facility.
It is a focal point for the community, narrating the story of Blacksburg and honoring Alexander Black’s legacy.
As visitors walk through the restored Alexander Black House, they relive Victorian elegance and the community’s efforts to protect this historical gem.
