The Robert Preston House at Walnut Grove was constructed around 1790 and the log cabin on the property even earlier. These are the only remaining structures from the 1700s left in greater Bristol, Virginia. The Living History Museum will be dedicated to the interpretation of the pioneer settlement of southwest Virginia in the 1700 and 1800s.

The Robert Preston House is listed on the National Historic Register of Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. It was mentioned in Preservation Magazine published by the National Historic Trust as a property recently saved from destruction. To help relocate and preserve the house, the Virginia Tobacco Commission has awarded $55 thousand and the Appalachian Regional Commission has awarded $40 thousand.

Colonel Robert Preston was born in Londonderry, Ireland in 1750. He immigrated to Virginia in 1770 and apprenticed to become a surveyor. He served in the Revolutionary War and in a 'Statement of Service' wrote:

"Thus then from the present time to the commencement of the American Revolution I can with pleasure review my conduct having performed all the duties of a well affected citizen during that period."

Learn more about his life on the History page.

Robert learned surveying from his cousin Colonel William Preston of Smithfield Plantation, in what is now Montgomery County, Virginia. Robert was influenced by the architecture of Smithfield. The detailing found at Walnut Grove is similar to that found at Smithfield. Robert was also related to Gen. Francis Preston who built the house which later became known as the Martha Washington Inn. Learn more about the Preston family tree on the Descendants page.

Several times a year the museum will host special events highlighting facets of life in the 1700 and 1800s. Special exhibits will be coordinated with these events and also with seasonal changes. Learn more about them on the Events and Exhibits pages.

The Living History Museum will be staffed primarily by volunteers. We will always be in need of historic interpreters, crafters, musicans, gardeners and more. Learn more about these opportunities on the Volunteer page. You will be able to support the Living History Museum by visiting, making a donation, or becoming a member. Learn more about these opportunities on the Join/Visit page.

There are a number of other sites of historic interest in the area. Learn more about them on the Links page. You can reach us by phone or email by visiting the Contact page.

Disclaimer: The museum is in the process of forming and the contents of this website are only intended to provide an idea of what the mature organization may be like. None of the services listed here are available at this time.