Virginia Capitol Connections Summer 2019

Mary Wingfield Scott: Richmond’s Preservation Pioneer By Cierra Parks

easily walkable political campus for all three branches of government. These 18th, 19th and 20th century buildings comprise an open-air textbook of major architectural styles. Designs range from Classical to Federal to Italianate to Gothic Revival to Beaux Arts and Art Deco, as well as Modern skyscraper! The Capitol, Executive Mansion and the 1894 Old City Hall have been officially designated as National Historic Landmarks. For over two centuries Capitol Square has supported an evolving mix of residential, political, military, religious, educational and commercial activities. A church, hotel, theater and private homes once lined the now vanished Capitol Street running parallel to and just south of Broad Street. A private museum and later a public museum were once located inside the southeast corner of Capitol Square, as was a volunteer fire station. The Public Guard was quartered in the Bell Tower in the 19th century and drilled with other militia units on Capitol Square during public holidays, while music from military bands delighted the crowds. Capitol Square is an ideal setting for commemoration and remembrance. Striking bronze statues and living memorial trees honoring individuals and groups populate the gracefully landscaped square. A commanding 60-foot tall equestrian monument depicting Revolutionary War leader George Washington, unveiled on 22 February 1858, shares honors with other Virginia-born presidents, generals and governors. Also honored are poet Edgar Allen Poe and See Capitol Square Has Many Stories to Tell , continued on page 13 Mary Wingfield dedicated most of her life to the preservation of Richmond’s historic architecture, infamous landmarks, and residential neighborhoods. She wrote two books concerning the importance of preserving the historic architecture of Richmond, Virginia. Scott was particularly passionate about the Capitol Square. She spoke out against many proposed changes to the square, including the addition of a third billboard in the square which she described as “distasteful”. She opposed many landscaping changes to the Capitol grounds, particularly the planting of flowers that were not native to the grounds. Scott was also very passionate about the Capitol building, and adamantly opposed a second addition to Jefferson’s original building design. In her books, Scott often references the Capitol building and the Capitol Square as treasures which she believed were irreplaceable and symbolized the connection that the people of Virginia have to their culture and history. Scott often encouraged her readers to speak out in order to protect the Capitol from those who cared more about political power than the preservation of Virginia’s history. To ensure her message and fight for preservationwould continue, MaryWingfield Scott along with Wyndham B. Blanton, Elisabeth Scott Bocock and several others established the Historic Richmond Foundation in 1956. Their mission is “to shape the future of Richmond by preserving our distinctive historic character, sparking revitalization and championing our important architectural legacy.” Thanks to Mary Wingfield Scott and her passion for preserving Richmond’s history, many historic buildings and landmarks have sustained the test of time and are sure to be here for many years to come. Cite: Peninger, K.C (2011). Mary Wingfield Scott: A Rebel with a Rubble Cause (Master’s thesis). Virginia Commonwealth University Cierra Parks is a student editor for Virginia Capitol Connections Quarterly Magazine. She is a senior at Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in journalism and psychology. V

hen it comes to events no one throws a party like David Napier.

Known throughout Central Virginia for his wonderful food and hospitality, David is delighted to have opened his catering facility in the heart of Shockoe Bottom. No event is too small or large. Delicious Box Lunches delivered. O ne of Richmond’s most elegant dining rooms is now exclusively available for your private parties and special events. Our award winning chefs produce an array of dishes from steaks and seafood to vegetarian and international masterpieces that will satisfy the most discriminating palate. The Old City Bar is the perfect place to celebrate.

Parking available adjacent to building Phone 804-644-1702 FAX: 804-644-1703 E-Mail: catering@whitehousecateringva.com Web Site: www.whitehousecateringva.com

V irginia C apitol C onnections , S ummer 2019

11