A unique past that shaped Old Southwest into the neighborhood it is today.
The Alexander-Gish House
Imagine your wedding, party, or event in a beautifully restored historic property!
The Alexander-Gish House is available for events such as meetings, parties, family reunions, workshops, and weddings. Rentals include use of the main floor including the kitchen, lounge, and meeting room, as well as the outdoor areas immediately surrounding the house and historic gazebo. Ample parking is available on site and alcoholic beverages are permitted. The Alexander-Gish house is equipped with Wi-Fi as well as central air & heat.
A piece of history.
The exact age of the Alexander-Gish house is undocumented, but it is undoubtedly one of the oldest dwellings in Roanoke. Built on property that has been a home site since before 1750, the house is located in an attractive setting with wide lawns, two lovely holly trees, and a boxwood hedge.
In 1776, the land was surveyed by William Preston for George and James Alexander, sons of William Alexander, the original owner. In 1817, it was acquired by George Howbert, who in 1818 conveyed the house and the 35 acres to his son Michael upon his marriage to Hannah Peffley. Tradition has it that the log portion of the building now standing was built for Michael’s bride.
In 1836, William Coon acquired the property, and lived there until his death in 1860. His nephew inherited the property, died in 1863, leaving the property to his widow, Nannie Coon. Nannie married Samuel H. Gish about two years later, and the property became known as the “Gish Woods”. In 1901, Nannie Gish sold “Gish Woods” to Roanoke for $10,000 and it became Roanoke’s first park. During the 1920’s, an addition was made to the structure. Originally the house faced the river. With the addition the house faced, as it still does, to the north, towards the road winding through Highland Park.
Until vacated in 1974 in preparation for demolition, the house was occupied by the park caretaker. Through organized efforts by Old Southwest, Inc. members, the Alexander-Gish house was saved from demolition and restored. Caretaking responsibilities eventually were transferred to Old Southwest, Inc. through an agreement with the City of Roanoke that remains in effect still today.
Currently the Alexander-Gish house serves as a meeting place for organizations, classes, and workshops, and is headquarters for Old Southwest, Inc., which has continued the renovating and restoration efforts in progress since 1982.
Rent the Alexander-Gish House.
Rental Price: $375
Rates include the use of the Gish House common areas on a daily basis; which includes all utilities, parking, and grounds immediately surrounding the house and gazebo. Call: 540-524-9590 (Leave a voice message, including event date. Or complete the form below.)