Rosewell Foundation, Inc.

Mission: The mission of the Rosewell Foundation is to preserve, study, and present Rosewell and its story. Rosewell, built between 1725 and 1738, was destroyed by fire in 1916. Preservation of the ruin began in 1979 when the last owners donated the site to the Gloucester Historical Society. The Rosewell Foundation, which spun off from GHS in 1995, intends to preserve the mansion in its ruined state rather than rebuild it. Rosewell''s four towering chimneys still stand, along with the beautifully detailed east wall, nearly intact cellar vault, and other intriguing features. The site has great potential for archaeological exploration and educational programming.
Programs: Stabilization of the historic ruin through repair of brick masonry joints and conservation of stonework is the most critical activity of the Rosewell Foundation. The Foundation also pursues documentary and archaeological research to better understand plantation life, and shares the resulting knowledge with the public through tours, exhibits, and educational programs. Students from the primary grades through the university level can explore topics pertinent to their studies. The Rosewell Foundation Visitor Center is open 360 days a year and features an orientation exhibit and archaeology lab. Annual special events include the fall "Barbecue at the Ruins" with traditional food and bluegrass music, and the spring "Secret Gardens Tour", featuring undiscovered local gardens.