“Belmont,” above Falmouth, was the home of Joseph Burwell Ficklen, a prominent antebellum and wartime businessman.  In 1916 it was purchased by renowned artist Gari Melchers and his wife Corinne. Upon the grounds, Melchers built an art studio in the 1920s.  After Melchers passed away, his widow remained living in the home.  She was very active in the community and used her home as a gathering place for area events.  On her passing, it was bequeathed to Mary Washington College, now known as the University of Mary Washington.   The home is a National Historic Landmark.              (photo: Gari Melchers’ Home and Studio)