* Built c. 1838 by William M. Burwell, son of  Thomas Jefferson's personal secretary
* Home to only two families, Burwell and Ballard, for almost 150 years

* Purchased by J.W. Ballard in 1906 after the death of Miss Lettie Burwell
* Acquired by The Avenel Foundation in 1985

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Massive restoration, made possible by grants from foundations, funds from the state, and support from loyal donors, has occurred since the 1985 acquisition up to the present and will continue into the future.

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Avenel has the feel of both the Federal and Greek Revival architecture of its time. The two-story brick home originally sat on close to seventy acres and was a focal point for both the social and political scene. Avenel is one of Bedford's crown jewels that continues to make history each and every day.
 

 Avenel is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.

 

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