Posted in West Virginia History September 26, 2021 by

The Fascinating History Of West Virginia’s Kanawha Valley Is On Display At The Craik-Patton House

Tucked beside the Great Kanawha River just south of downtown Charleston lies a little-known museum that is rich with West Virginia history. The Craik-Patton House, the second oldest house in Charleston, holds a small but excellent museum – and is surrounded by other historical landmarks. 

The Craik-Patton House dates back to 1834, a time that was still the frontier era in what was then western Virginia. The house is one of the area’s earliest examples of a “luxury home.” With its high porch and stately columns in the Greek Revival tradition, it must have been quite impressive in an era when most homes were still little more than log cabins.
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
The varied history of the Craik-Patton House extends from the Revolutionary period, through the Civil War, all the way to World War II.
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
James Craik, the builder of the house, was the grandson of George Washington’s close friend and personal doctor, Dr. James Craik. Dr. Craik was also the first Surgeon General of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. A few years after building the house, James Craik entered the ministry and moved away.
Later, in 1856, the house came into the possession of George Patton, who had studied under Stonewall Jackson at Virginia Military Institute and subsequently became a Confederate colonel in the Civil War.
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
Patton died in battle in 1864, and his wife and young son moved away and resettled in California. Colonel Patton’s grandson was General George Patton, the famed World War II leader, and the general’s father (son of the Confederate officer) was born in the Craik-Patton House.
Today, the Craik-Patton House and its surroundings offer visitors many attractions. First, the museum itself: free to the public, tours are offered by highly knowledgeable guides who will often personalize the tour to your interests.
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
Something of a hidden gem, this museum is not heavily trafficked, allowing you to go at your own pace. The house itself is full of period decor - chairs, tables, paintings, fine china, even an antique piano-forte instrument (the original version of today’s piano). George Washington’s writing desk, which he gave to his close friend Dr. Craik, was kept in the house for over 100 years before being returned to Mt. Vernon; a reproduction is now on display.
Second, the beautiful grounds, which feature a charming garden and stately trees, are a perfect place for weddings and other small events. 
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
Another attraction is the log cabin next door, the Ruffner House. One of the state's oldest surviving houses, the Ruffner House was built in 1797 by an early settler in the area, and was moved to this site in 1976. The log cabin can also be toured upon request.
The Craik-Patton House / Facebook
Finally, in case you needed any more proof that this area is brimming with history, just next door is Daniel Boone Park. Directly across the river from this park was the cabin where the great frontiersman Daniel Boone himself lived from 1788 to 1795. The park offers beautiful views of the river, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
Don Johnson / Google Maps

Stop by the unassuming but exquisite Craik-Patton House and enjoy a leisurely trip through some of West Virginia’s most fascinating history! Don’t forget to leave a donation to help keep this little gem open to the public. For more information, visit the Craik-Patton House website. If you love house museums, be sure to check out the oldest house in Pendleton County, too.

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Address: Craik-Patton House, 2809 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25311, USA