Our Story

Learn about our storied history and how the Mansion first got its start.

Our Story

Catch a glimpse of Mankin Mansion’s stately grandeur, and you’ll be hard-pressed not to notice its warmth — the ingenious detail of its terra-cotta-colored brickwork. That’s because it was built in 1924 as a home for Edward Thurston Mankin, a prominent handmade brick manufacturer behind some of Virginia’s finest homes, his work a part of the fabric of the country.

Known for producing handmade specialty bricks, Mr. Mankin engraved his name on the side of his products, which were manufactured on-site at the Mansion. These bricks form the building blocks of some of the most prominent buildings in the country — John D. Rockefeller’s estate, Yale University, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Colonial Williamsburg, and Jamestown Church.

Our Italianate-Georgian Revival National landmark is a stunning example of Mr. Mankin’s skill for craftsmanship and a priceless architectural gem in Virginia. No one knew this better than Martin and Paula Ramirez, who bought the property and rescued it from its then-dilapidated state in 2004. Martin and Paula continued their renovation efforts — expanding the grounds and reimagining the interiors — all while maintaining the estate's historic and timeless beauty. Opened in 2006, Mankin Mansion is now a luxury venue that plays host to blissful weddings and countless special events.