About

The Reynolds Homestead, gifted to Virginia Tech by the Reynolds family in 1970, is part forest research center, part museum, and part community gathering place.

At a grand dedication on the lawn in 1970, Nancy Susan Reynolds deeded the property to Virginia Tech. In doing so, she set a mission calling for programs designed to improve the quality of life in Patrick County “culturally, economically, and practically.”

The homestead faculty and staff work hand-in-hand with nonprofit, business, and government organizations to address local needs and offer educational and cultural experiences for all ages.

The original 1843 plantation house — the birthplace of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds and A.D. Reynolds, whose son founded Reynolds Metals — has been restored and is open for tours each Sunday from April through October. It stands beside a Community Engagement Center that hosts cultural and educational programming year-round.