Participate in research and exhibit planning, and uncover insights into America's historical landscape through hands-on experiences.
As a significant historical site, Sandusky was established around 1808 by Charles Johnston, who named it after escaping captivity near the present-day city of Sandusky, Ohio. It has hosted notable figures like Thomas Jefferson and was crucial during the Civil War, serving as Union headquarters during the 1864 Battle of Lynchburg.
Today, Sandusky's role extends beyond preservation, actively involving students and visitors in historical interpretation. Through its educational partnership, it connects historical insights with contemporary learning, ensuring that its rich past informs and enriches the present.
Sandusky is a museum and registered Virginia Historic Landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, located only two miles from the University of Lynchburg. The house is one of the finest examples of Federal-style architecture in Virginia’s Piedmont region and is on the Civil War Trails tour.
Historic Sandusky is a Federal-style Virginia home built circa 1808. It has a rich history that intersects repeatedly with the story of America.
The builder and first owner, Charles Johnston, survived an Indian massacre and captivity in the Ohio Territory near a settlement called Sandusky. When he settled in Virginia, he established the house as the centerpiece of his 1,200 acre plantation and named it Sandusky in recognition of his escape. He later wrote a memoir about his experiences with the help of James Madison.
Many notable Americans were guests at Sandusky including Thomas Jefferson, Rutherford B. Hayes, and William McKinley.
During the Civil War, Sandusky was seized by Union General David Hunter and used as a military headquarters during the June 1864 Battle of Lynchburg in which Confederate General Jubal Early drove out the Union soldiers, saving the Hill City from major destruction. Sandusky’s barn was used as a field hospital and its roof as a signal station.
The Sandusky house was privately owned until 2001 when a citizen’s group purchased it for public use. Since then, restoration has begun, a visitor center and museum built, and a library and archives established.
The partnership between the University of Lynchburg and Historic Sandusky gives our students the opportunity for real-world museum experience through internships, assistantships, special projects, and field trips. Sandusky’s library, document archives, and collections provide a wealth of resources for student research, scholarship, and publication.
The partnership provides extensive opportunities for students to get involved in museum operations including:
In June 2012, Historic Sandusky won three regional Emmy® awards for its documentary film, “Hunter’s Raid: The Battle for Lynchburg.” The film, which included performances by several faculty, staff, and students, won for Best Documentary, Best Director, and Best Editing. Written and directed by Historic Sandusky Executive Director Greg Starbuck, the 55-minute documentary describes the tense days in June 1864 when Hunter and his army occupied the house.
“The awards are an honor and a testament to the community support Historic Sandusky received in making this film,” Starbuck said. “We could not have made such a quality film without the intensive involvement by hundreds of local citizens. It was also memorable that we premiered the film at the University of Lynchburg, with numerous faculty, staff, and students appearing in the production,” said Starbuck.
Association of Academic Museums & Galleries, February 2017
Tours of Historic Sandusky are currently only available by appointment. Please call or email us in advance to set up a time to visit. Visitors may also take a self-guided tour using our self-guided tour brochure available outside at the visitor center.
Historic Sandusky
757 Sandusky Drive
Lynchburg Virginia, 24502
Phone: 434.832.0162
E-mail: [email protected]
