Riddick’s Folly

Great and cant say enough good things about Riddicks Folly. First came here and I had thought the tour was free. I didn’t have any cash on me that day, so we turned around. Came back another day since the kids were very interested. The tour guide was a gentleman named Mr. King. What a wealth of knowledge from him. Our family had him to ourselves for the tour which was $ 5 for adults and I believe $ 3 for the kids. $ 4 if military. What a bargain. The tour lasted about 1.5 to 2 hours.
The kids were mesmerized. The period furniture, unique architecture, art pieces, period clothing, weapons displays, etc were all amazing.
I enjoy hearing local history and what made this tour great is how everything had a story behind it. Whether it was the black mourning dress, the letters that were written, diaries, ledgers, etc. It all had a back story. The tour guide was also engaging with my children and kept them interested the entire time. If you like guns, rifles, swords and bayonets, there is an entire room dedicated to it! Also, there is an entire room dedicated to Govenor Godwin. Even more history. Great.
We gave an extra donation at the end of the tour and even bought a few things in the gift shop. It was the perfect combination of learning and worthwhile entertainment during Spring Break. Thanks Mr. King.

I love visiting history museums; I was surprised I hadn’t stopped by Riddick’s Folly (RF) before. RF is right next to the Visitor’s Center and easy to spot on the busily North Main Street. Educating ourselves about the past is important – learning about our own local history is even more imperative. As novelist Pearl Buck said, «If you want to understand today, you have to search yesterday.» Lucky for us, Hampton Roads is full of rich history and, specifically, here in Suffolk.
The Mills Riddick House is striking, and impressive to see when you walk up; the 19^th century Greek Revival period home was bricked in Flemish bond. Flemish bond is a pattern of bricklaying –one short, one long, one short, one long– and was used in Virginia for the colonial buildings. Mills Riddick was a wealthy man who owned many plantations and a lumber business. He and his wife, Mary Taylor, had 14 children, which explains why they needed a prodigious 8,000 square foot home with four floors, 21 rooms, and 16 fireplaces. During the Great Suffolk Fire back in 1837, most buildings on Main Street were destroyed, and RF was not spared. Thankfully, Mr. Riddick rebuilt his home and now it stands before you.
When we arrived that day, we were greeted by a woman who was pregnant – imminently. She apologized for not being able to give us a full tour since she couldn’t walk up the stairs. Usually, there is a man who gives the tour but it was only her that day. When we agreed to continue, she said we can get a «partial tour» ($ 3). Her husband was there and he was happy to take us upstairs later. Being honest, I thought the tour was a bit dull but I will give her kudos for working while being ready to delivery; remember, the guides volunteer their time to RF.
The house itself was exquisite; the floors were beautiful, with intricate woodwork throughout, and the breathtaking effort of every inch of that home is such a treat to see. From the basement kitchen to the slaves quarters on the fourth floor, you will be astounded. For those that love military history, one of their exhibits is called «Our Bleeding Country,» which displays rare and spectacular guns. RF was occupied by the Union Army during the Civil War here in Suffolk; there is even a bloodstain on the floor from a dying soldier. Additionally, there is also Mills E. Godwin, Jr. Exhibit Gallery and Research Library. Godwin was a well-​loved Governor, and he provided many artifacts to RF.
We enjoyed walking around the home and I am sure you will be fascinated. There is a gift shop, and they offer other programs throughout the year; pick up their quarterly newsletter called «Riddick’s Folly Notes.» The entire family should visit RF and it is a great way to spend a hot day, or a rainy one – check them out and support our local treasures!

I wish I could give this place 10 stars! The owner and tour guide is so friendly and knowledgable. He took his time with us which I appreciated.
The tour of the house is well worth the small entrance fee and a special trip to Suffolk. There are many interesting artifacts from the time period. If you like touring historic homes, this one is a good one to visit. I mean, don’t drive 6 hrs to get there but if you’re looking for a local day trip you won’t be disappointed.