Almost everyone knows about Maymont in Richmond, but few know of its connection with Lunenburg County. Sallie May, Lunenburg native and daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Henry May, married James Henry Dooley, a successful attorney, business leader and politician based in Richmond during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age. The Dooleys developed Maymont, their 100-acre estate on the James River, where they lived from 1893 through Mrs. Dooley’s death in 1925. The home bears the maiden name of Mrs. Dooley and her Lunenburg family.  The Dooleys had no children and it was their wish that at their deaths, their home and grounds be left to the City of Richmond.

You are welcome to come with the Lunenburg County Historical Society to visit Maymont on Oct. 28, for a special tour of this fantastic Victorian mansion beginning at 10 a.m. You do not have to be a member of the historical society to participate. A car caravan plans to leave Victoria from the old Star Value parking lot no later than 8:15 a.m. that morning. Or you may simply meet the group at the main gate at 1700 Hampton Street, Richmond.

However, you do have to make advance reservations and pay for the tour ($8 before Oct. 14.) To make these arrangements, please contact Anne Hamlett by calling or texting (434) 480-0284 or sending an e-mail to woodpark1@centurylink.net.

Mr. Dooley was the son of Irish immigrants who settled in Richmond. In honor of his Irish heritage, we are making lunch reservations at O’Toole’s Restaurant located not far from Maymont at 4800 Forest Hill Avenue.   

This popular restaurant has a varied menu of delicious foods, not only popular Irish favorites, but a large selection of salads and entrees.

You will order off the menu and pay on your own.