Swannanoa Palace
This 1912 italianate marble palace is now open for group tours, weddings and other events. By appointment only.
The property is under renovation and plans are to re-open the palace as a bed and breakfast and meeting facility.
For information or to plan a group tour, contact Phil Dulaney at 540-942-5201
History of Swannanoa Palace:
Major James Dooley, an executive with the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad
Company, completed construction of the $2 million Swannanoa in 1912.
Dooley, who owned the Maymont estate is Richmond, built this 52-room
marble palace as a token of love for his wife, Sally May. More than 300
artisans were hired to create the palace as a replica of the Villa de
Medici in Rome. They used the highest quality materials available.
Visitors today can still see the depth of James and Sally May's
relationship is places like the 4,000 piece Tiffany stained-glass
window and a domed ceiling bearing the likeness of Mrs. Dooley. The
name Swannanoa comes from Mrs. Dooley's fondness for swans, which she
liked because they choose their mates for a lifetime.
Copyright 2008 Nelson County, Virginia
Maintained by the Nelson County Convention & Visitors Bureau
and Department of Economic Development
Questions? Contact us 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm EST - 1-800-282-8223
