Drayton Hall c.1738

One of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in America, Drayton Hall, built in 1738, is the oldest preserved plantation house that is open to the public. Following seven generations of Drayton family ownership, the house remains in nearly original condition and has never been modernized, providing an unmatched look at colonial living and its builders' creative craftsmanship. From serene river views and informative landscape walks to the rich stories of its people of European and African descent, Drayton Hall offers visitors a unique way to experience history. Rather than restoring the house to reflect a single period of grandeur, the National Trust chose to preserve the site as it was received from the Draytons in 1974 in order to provide a timeline showing change and continuity through three centuries of American history. Drayton Hall is owned and operated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.