Morton Mews stone columns lining a garden pathway at MacCallum More Museum & Gardens in Chase City VA

Morton Mews Columns

Towering Pillars of Architectural Grandeur

The Morton Mews Columns, built of salvaged stone, stand as some of the most imposing and elegant architectural remnants within MacCallum More Museum & Gardens (MMMG). These towering stone pillars are adorned with intricate friezes and columns. The columns were originally part of the historic Atlantic Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia. Saved and repurposed, they now serve as a grand focal point, blending history, artistry, and preservation in a single awe-inspiring feature.

The columns’ monumental presence creates a striking contrast against the surrounding gardens, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the passage of time and the importance of historic conservation.


Key Features

  • Historic Hotel Origins – The white columns were originally part of the Atlantic Hotel in Norfolk, Virginia.

  • Intricate Frieze Carvings – Detailed stone engravings add to their historical and artistic value.

  • Grand Architectural Scale – Towering columns create a dramatic, eye-catching feature in the gardens.

  • Symbol of Preservation – Showcases MacCallum More’s dedication to saving and repurposing historic elements.

Historical Background

  • Origin: Atlantic Hotel, Norfolk, Virginia.

  • Acquired By: Billy Hudgins, as part of his mission to preserve and integrate historic architecture into the gardens.

  • Date Added to the Gardens: Part of the original construction of the Gardens in the 1970s.

  • Notable Stories: Visitors are often drawn to the sheer scale and elegance of the columns, which serve as both an architectural wonder and a reminder of Virginia’s historic grandeur.

Location in the Gardens

📍 Find It Near: At the southern end of Morton Mews near the Crescent.
📍 Accessibility: A prominent feature that stands tall among the garden’s pathways, ensuring easy visibility.


Plan Your Visit

Make the most of your visit by exploring the rich history and beauty of MacCallum More Museum & Gardens. For detailed information on hours, admission, and directions, visit our Plan Your Visit page.

📌 Explore More:
🔗 View Other Sculptures & Architectural Features →
🔗 Learn About the Gardens →


📖 Source: MacCallum More Museum & Gardens: A History, by Diana Thorpe