· The History of Rassawek

Rassawek is a property steeped in local lore where old buildings and materials from the region—otherwise slated for demolition—are salvaged from the wrecking ball and are relocated, repurposed and rebuilt.

In 2000, the land- a “blank slate” and stunning in its natural beauty–was acquired by a family passionate about preserving the past and motivated to create a retreat unlike any other.

They named the property “Rassawek,” in honor of the namesake village of the Monacan Indians, believed to be a series of camps that stretched out along the James River from the main hub at Point of Fork where the Rivanna and James Rivers converged nearby, and set to work planting a vineyard and reclaiming structures for the enjoyment of future generations.

The vineyard was planted in contour rows following the lay of the land. Ponds and roads were added to the property. It’s hard to say what came first- the serendipitous acquisition of materials or a master plan.

The property bears the signatures of the craftsmen, who contributed their skills to various projects, in the details. An arched stone bridge, crafted by a master mason, flanked by redbuds and dogwoods, invites visitors to follow the road which winds through rows of grapevines.

Perched on the top of the hill, a white gazebo, Rassawek’s most visible landmark, offers panoramic views of the river low grounds and three counties- Goochland, Fluvanna and Cumberland.

In 2003, the first building to find new life at Rassawek was the “Saylor” cabin, circa 1844. The two-story structure was moved one floor at a time and reconstructed with an eye for authenticity.

The “Cherokee” cabin, built in 1910, followed in 2008 and was reconstructed overlooking a pond at the north end of the property. Grapevines were then planted in a radial pattern with the Cherokee cabin as the hub.

Salvaged antique items fill the interior. The fireplace, built from native rocks and those original to the cabin, sports massive lintels that were hand-split on site. The floors and wavy pane glass are original to the cabin. A skylight and cupola provide ventilation and natural light.

Adjacent to the Cherokee Cabin is the greenhouse, originally from James Madison’s home, Montpelier. The spacious room, with its brick floor, fireplace and stunning glass, is not only an architectural gem but a perfect spot for gathering.

Rassawek continues to evolve, fueled by the family’s imagination, creativity, respect for the past and by the desire to teach future generations about an earlier time.

rassawek

Looking for the perfect getaway that feels like stepping back in time?

Just outside Richmond, Rassawek brings together historic overnight stays, winery experiences, and seasonal events, all shaped by Virginia history.

Mark your calendars and join us at the Rassawek Tasting Room on February 7th for our Sip & Shop event! Then guests can unwind at the Rassawek Winery every 4th Friday of the month, from 1–8 PM, February through September.

A perfect spot for families looking to unplug, explore, and make memories.
@TheWestEndMom this is a great place to bring the family for a getaway or to attend one of our events throughout the year.
Just outside Richmond
Book your stay using the link in our bio and experience the magic for yourself
@TheRichmondExperience @Richmond_Living_ @TheBest_RVA

[ Rassawek, stay at Rassawek, historic cabins Virginia, Cherokee Cabin, train car stay Virginia, unique stays near Richmond, Richmond weekend getaway ]

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Looking for the perfect getaway that feels like stepping back in time? Just outside Richmond, Rassawek brings together historic overnight stays, winery experiences, and seasonal events, all shaped by Virginia history. Mark your calendars and join us at the Rassawek Tasting Room on February 7th for our Sip & Shop event! Then guests can unwind at the Rassawek Winery every 4th Friday of the month, from 1–8 PM, February through September. A perfect spot for families looking to unplug, explore, and make memories. @TheWestEndMom this is a great place to bring the family for a getaway or to attend one of our events throughout the year. Just outside Richmond Book your stay using the link in our bio and experience the magic for yourself @TheRichmondExperience @Richmond_Living_ @TheBest_RVA [ Rassawek, stay at Rassawek, historic cabins Virginia, Cherokee Cabin, train car stay Virginia, unique stays near Richmond, Richmond weekend getaway ]
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This year reminded us just how special this community is, from welcoming the largest crowd we’ve ever had at the Autumn Festival, to spending summer nights together at our very first Sawmill Music Series events!

We celebrated weddings across the property, including at our newest and largest venue, the Pavilion, and watched so many meaningful moments unfold.

You joined us to learn something new, whether that was crafting wreaths at Wine & Wreath or baking fresh bread, and gathered together for wine tastings.

Every event was made better by you! Thank you for continuing to support us and for making each gathering as fun and memorable.

We can’t wait to welcome you back in 2026 and do it all again together.

[ rassawek, community, grateful, rassawek events, goochland va, commonwealth crush ]

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This year reminded us just how special this community is, from welcoming the largest crowd we’ve ever had at the Autumn Festival, to spending summer nights together at our very first Sawmill Music Series events! We celebrated weddings across the property, including at our newest and largest venue, the Pavilion, and watched so many meaningful moments unfold. You joined us to learn something new, whether that was crafting wreaths at Wine & Wreath or baking fresh bread, and gathered together for wine tastings. Every event was made better by you! Thank you for continuing to support us and for making each gathering as fun and memorable. We can’t wait to welcome you back in 2026 and do it all again together. [ rassawek, community, grateful, rassawek events, goochland va, commonwealth crush ]
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Rassawek is full of special places spread throughout the property, waiting to be explored!

Every part of Rassawek, from its hidden paths to unique structures, reflects the land, those who care for it, and the history that continues to shape it.

🌿 Come explore and see it for yourself!

[ Rassawek, explore Rassawek, hidden gems of Virginia, Columbia VA, Central Virginia countryside, walkable nature paths, historic Virginia property ]

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Rassawek is full of special places spread throughout the property, waiting to be explored! Every part of Rassawek, from its hidden paths to unique structures, reflects the land, those who care for it, and the history that continues to shape it. 🌿 Come explore and see it for yourself! [ Rassawek, explore Rassawek, hidden gems of Virginia, Columbia VA, Central Virginia countryside, walkable nature paths, historic Virginia property ]
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December 21st marks the official first day of winter, and we’re celebrating with some of our favorite snowy scenes from around the property. ❄️

There’s something about Rassawek in the winter: the quiet, the stillness, the way everything feels a little more peaceful.

Here’s to the first day of winter and all the beauty it brings.

[ rassawek, first day of winter, goochland va, virginia winter, rassawek winery, winter at rassawek ]

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December 21st marks the official first day of winter, and we’re celebrating with some of our favorite snowy scenes from around the property. ❄️ There’s something about Rassawek in the winter: the quiet, the stillness, the way everything feels a little more peaceful. Here’s to the first day of winter and all the beauty it brings. [ rassawek, first day of winter, goochland va, virginia winter, rassawek winery, winter at rassawek ]
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We took a little time to celebrate the holidays with our staff and close friends and it was just what we needed. Feeling extra thankful for our creative team who keeps Rassawek moving forward all year long. Hard work, good people, and a little holiday cheer goes a long way. Cheers to that 🎄🍷

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We took a little time to celebrate the holidays with our staff and close friends and it was just what we needed. Feeling extra thankful for our creative team who keeps Rassawek moving forward all year long. Hard work, good people, and a little holiday cheer goes a long way. Cheers to that 🎄🍷
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Did you know Rassawek is home to more than 30 restored properties?

Founded in 2000 by a family passionate about preserving the past, Rassawek was created as a retreat unlike any other. Over the years, historic buildings and materials from across the region, many once headed for demolition, have been carefully salvaged, relocated, repurposed, and rebuilt throughout the property.

Today, Rassawek is a place where natural beauty and local history come together, and where the stories of the past are thoughtfully preserved and shared with the community.

📸 @FaithPhotography @DaryllMorgan

[ rassawek, historic restoration, reclaimed structures, virginia history, goochland va, rassawek winery, heritage preservation ]

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Did you know Rassawek is home to more than 30 restored properties? Founded in 2000 by a family passionate about preserving the past, Rassawek was created as a retreat unlike any other. Over the years, historic buildings and materials from across the region, many once headed for demolition, have been carefully salvaged, relocated, repurposed, and rebuilt throughout the property. Today, Rassawek is a place where natural beauty and local history come together, and where the stories of the past are thoughtfully preserved and shared with the community. 📸 @FaithPhotography @DaryllMorgan [ rassawek, historic restoration, reclaimed structures, virginia history, goochland va, rassawek winery, heritage preservation ]
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🎄🍷 New dates added for Wine & Wreath! Cozy up in our indoor Pavilion for a guided wreath-making workshop, wine tasting, and light fare all included with your ticket. Don’t miss out!
Link:
https://www.ticketsignup.io/Race/VA/Columbia/RassawekWinterWineWreath

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🎄🍷 New dates added for Wine & Wreath! Cozy up in our indoor Pavilion for a guided wreath-making workshop, wine tasting, and light fare all included with your ticket. Don’t miss out! Link: https://www.ticketsignup.io/Race/VA/Columbia/RassawekWinterWineWreath
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