Buckingham County 1856: Oakley For Sale
American Farm Scenes No. 3 (1853), by Fanny Palmer
In 1856, something was stirring in Buckingham County.
A significant number of valuable Buckingham farms and other businesses were advertised for sale in the Richmond newspapers. Did sellers attempt to take advantage of a strong market? Did they anticipate a dip? Was the climate in Buckingham shifting towards increasing industry, making those properties more valuable? Did the political battles over the Kansas Territory concern Buckingham County slaveholders? Was it just coincidental?
Among these advertisements was this one for Oakley placed by the owner, William H. Wilson:
VALUABLE BUCKINGHAM LAND FOR SALE
If not previously sold I will offer for sale at public auction, on the premises, on TUESDAY, the 2nd day of September next, my tract of land called OAKLEY, lying within one mile of Buckingham Court House, and containing about 600 acres.
It is seldom that so pleasant and desirable a residence, either for a private or professional gentleman, is offered for sale. It lies in one of the most healthy, wealthy and intelligent neighborhoods in the State. The situation is very elevated and beautiful, commanding an extensive view of the range of Blue Ridge Mountains, and of many of the fine plantations on Slate River. The improvements are sufficient for the accommodation of a large family, white and black, and in good repair, with an excellent ice house, all necessary outhouses, and an abundance of excellent spring water….
There is also a good mill seat on the estate, at which a mill once stood.
Coming Next: Maysville in 1856
slate river ramblings . . . . 
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