August 14, 2014 / Joanne Yeck

Buckingham Notables: Philip Ambler

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Seven Islands, Photo by Joanne Yeck

On February 4, 1902, the Richmond Dispatch reported the death of Philip Ambler (1834-1902), a widely-known teacher from Buckingham County.

P. B. Ambler’s Death. Prominent Resident of Buckingham. A Well-Known Educator

Arvonia, VA., February 3 – Mr. P. B. Ambler, of Buckingham county, died Saturday in Lynchburg.

The deceased a short while ago went to visit relatives in the Hill City, thinking the change would be beneficial. But he gradually grew worse, and thus was unable to return home.

His wife remained with him till death claimed her husband.

The remains reached Bremo Sunday, and were taken to his late residence, “Seven Islands,” where the funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. today.

Mr. Ambler was a ripe scholar, a polished gentleman and an unassuming Christian soldier. He was truly an “old Virginia gentleman.”

For a number of years he filled a professorship at Hollins Institute with credit to himself and honor to the school.

After severing his connection with this institution, he retired to his handsome estate, situated two miles from Arvonia, where he soon started a classical school, preparing young men for the various universities and colleges.

Mr. Ambler was born in Amherst county, two miles from Sweetbriar Institute, but moved to Buckingham where he married Miss Willie Nicholas.

His only child, Professor Nicholas Ambler, fills the Chair of Mathematics at Roanoke College. Mr. Ambler was well and favorably known, and related to the most distinguished families in Virginia.

Click here to read more about Seven Islands School.