Sadly, hardly any of the buildings mentioned have survived into modern times. Those that have are primarily the ones closest to Capitol Square. Still, as one drives around the streets today and tries to imagine the lively activity and bustle of the struggling capital of a lost cause, one cannot escape the feeling that something significant happened here, and that the modern high-rises and commercial buildings cannot erase the mark the war left on Richmond. A visitor today can still find a hotel room with a view of the river, and step out into a modern city of monuments, statues and remembrances.

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Where to stay in the Richmond area:

The Jefferson Hotel (804) 788-8000, Franklin and Adams streets. Built in 1895, this magnificent structure contains many marble floors and columns, plush furnishings, and a large statue of Thomas Jefferson in a domed hall. Four-star rated, and close to all downtown attractions.

Linden Row Inn (804) 783-7000, 100 East Franklin St. Constructed within a series of row homes, this inn provides a charming environment of ironwork, fireplaces and antique furniture, while also providing modern guest facilities, including a nightly cheese and wine reception.

The Berkeley Hotel (804) 780-1300, 1200 East Cary St. Located in historic Shockoe Slip, the Berkeley is dedicated to preserving the art of innkeeping. Four-star rated, this hotel is close to all the downtown attractions and historical areas.

The Henry Clay Inn (804) 798-3100, 114 North Railroad Ave., Ashland, Va. Patterned after an earlier predecessor, this hotel provides small-town hospitality with easy access to downtown Richmond (20 minutes), and is also located near several sites of importance outside of Richmond, such as the J.E.B. Stuart Monument and Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown home.

For further information about historic Richmond and environs, write the Metro Richmond Convention and Visitors Bureau, 550 East Marshall St., Box C-250, Richmond, VA 23219, or call either of the following numbers: (800) 365-7272 or (804) 782-2777 to request a free travel information packet.

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