Reynolds Homestead
Reynolds Homestead | |
Historic marker for Reynolds Homestead | |
| Location | N of Critz on SR 798 |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 36°38′39″N 80°8′55″W / 36.64417°N 80.14861°W |
| Area | 6.99 acres (2.83 ha) |
| Built | 1850 |
| Architect | Reynolds, Hardin W. |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 71000987 |
| VLR No. | 070-0005 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | September 22, 1971 |
| Designated NHL | December 22, 1977 |
| Designated VLR | November 3, 1970 |
The Reynolds Homestead, also known as Rock Spring Plantation, is a historical site and former plantation worked by the enslaved, located on Homestead Lane in Critz, Virginia. First developed in 1814 by slaveowner Abram Reynolds, it was the primary home of R. J. Reynolds (1850–1918), founder of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, and the first major marketer of the cigarette. Upon liberation of the plantation in 1863, some 88 people were freed from captivity and enslavement.
It was later designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. The homestead is now an outreach facility of Virginia Tech, serving as a regional cultural center. The house is open for tours.