Woolen Mills Charlottesville Homes for Sale
$355,000
Active
213 Meade Ave Charlottesville, Virginia
2 Beds 1 Baths 824 SqFt 0.16 Acres
Toby Beavers, a Woolen Mills realtor since 2003, may be reached by text or phone at 434-327-2999
The Woolen Mills neighborhood in Charlottesville was once one of the best-kept secrets in the area. But the cat’s out of the bag, and everyone under 40 wants to live here now.
Only .4 square miles, the Woolen Mills neighborhood is one of the oldest in Charlottesville and was established in 1868, and is named for the mills on the Rivanna River.
It’s a short commute to downtown Charlottesville by car and an easy 10-minute ride by bike.
The Charlottesville Woolen Mill manufactured the Confederate Army’s gray uniforms but was torched by the Union army in 1865 when Charlottesville fell.
The Mill operated from the mid-1850s until the 1960’s when it permanently closed. It’s now home to WillowTree Apps, a software company.
The land the mill sits on was once owned by Thomas Jefferson.
Click here to read a wonderful article about the circa 1887 Woolen Mills Chapel.
Click here to view a short Youtube video about the history of Woolen Mills. And click here to view part 2. Thanks to Bill Emory for making these videos!
Woolen Mills’ population as of 2025 is 2,800 and the median income is $84k.
Homes are not cheap in Woolen Mills…anymore.
Charlottesville Public Schools that serve the Woolen Mills Neighborhood are Burnley-Moran Elementary School, Buford Middle School, and Charlottesville High School.
Meade Park and Riverview Park are within the neighborhood and hold a farmer’s market in July and August.
97% of the homes are single-family
2025 Median Sales Price: For Woolen Mills Charlottesville homes for sale is $435k.
Note: Competitively priced homes do not last longer than a day or two on our CAAR MLS.
My Thoughts on Woolen Mills Charlottesville homes for sale: On a scale of 1-10, I give the Woolen Mills neighborhood an 8.
Discovering Historic Charm : Your Complete Guide to Woolen Mills Charlottesville Homes for Sale
By Toby Beavers, Woolen Mills Charlottesville Realtor since 2003
Throughout my extensive career spanning more than two decades as a Woolen Mills Charlottesville realtor, I’ve witnessed the extraordinary transformation and lasting charm of one of Charlottesville’s most historically rich neighborhoods. Beginning my real estate journey in 2003, I’ve assisted numerous families in navigating the distinctive process of discovering their ideal residence in this fascinating mill village, where industrial legacy seamlessly blends with contemporary lifestyle in the most captivating manner.
The Woolen Mills real estate marketplace represents something genuinely exceptional within the Charlottesville environment. This extends beyond being merely another residential area, it stands as a living monument to American industrial heritage, where today’s families can acquire a portion of history while experiencing all the benefits of modern conveniences.
Having successfully sold more than 100 properties throughout the greater Charlottesville region and consistently earning five-star client satisfaction ratings, I can confidently assert that Woolen Mills provides an incomparable combination of historic distinction, community atmosphere, and investment opportunity that continuously attracts sophisticated purchasers from various locations.
The Historical Foundation of Woolen Mills
Comprehending the significance of Woolen Mills historic homes requires acknowledging the neighborhood’s extraordinary progression through different eras. The narrative commences in 1795 with a modest water-powered grist mill positioned at the meeting point of Moore’s Creek and the Rivanna River. This advantageous location, formerly recognized as Pireus, Charlottesville’s port during the period when the community proudly declared itself “the Athens of the South”, would establish the groundwork for one of Virginia’s most prosperous textile enterprises.
During the 1840s, William H. Meriweather had developed “The Charlottesville Factory,” an assemblage of structures containing wool, cotton, sawmill, and grist mill operations. The business genuinely thrived under John Adams Marchant’s leadership after he obtained the property in 1851. Throughout the Civil War period, the mill manufactured garments for enslaved individuals and military uniforms for Confederate forces, until 1865, when Union soldiers under General George Custer inadvertently destroyed the facility while attempting to eliminate nearby railroad infrastructure.
The remarkable recovery from that destruction marked the commencement of the Charlottesville Woolen Mills’ most successful period. Henry Marchant, John’s descendant, utilized the fire as an opportunity to reconstruct and upgrade on a more substantial scale. The newly established Charlottesville Woolen Mills of 1867 achieved national recognition as a manufacturer of premium military textiles and uniforms, with their distinctive “Charlottesville Gray” becoming the benchmark at the 1893 World’s Fair.
What distinguishes the homes for sale in Woolen Mills as particularly remarkable is that numerous properties were constructed during this flourishing era, with origins dating to 1847. Unlike conventional company communities of that time, Woolen Mills promoted worker ownership. When surrounding land underwent subdivision, mill employees purchased parcels and constructed their individual residences, establishing the architectural variety and community permanence that characterizes the neighborhood presently.
Architectural Legacy and Residential Styles
The Woolen Mills historic homes display a remarkable collection of architectural approaches accumulated across nearly two centuries. Traversing the neighborhood currently, you’ll discover Gothic Revival cottages from the 1840s, Colonial Revival residences from the century’s beginning, Craftsman Bungalows from the 1910s and 1920s, and Cape Cod designs from the mid-twentieth century. This architectural variation reflects the neighborhood’s natural development and the individual preferences of multiple generations of mill employees who invested in their community.
Numerous properties showcase the substantial construction methods of their respective periods, substantial plaster walls, hardwood flooring, intricate millwork, and the quality of workmanship that’s progressively uncommon in contemporary construction. Original elements such as pocket doors, integrated cabinetry, claw-foot bathtubs, and ornamental fireplaces contribute character that modern building practices simply cannot duplicate.
The mill structures themselves, originating primarily from the 1920s and 1930s, have discovered renewed purpose as multi-use facilities. The distinctive “saw tooth” buildings, designated for their characteristic roofline engineered to optimize natural illumination, currently accommodate modern enterprises including the celebrated Wool Factory brewery and restaurant, establishing a distinctive fusion of historical conservation and contemporary convenience.
Present Market Conditions and Recent Transactions
The Woolen Mills real estate marketplace has exhibited exceptional stability and growth opportunities throughout my 22-year tenure in Charlottesville. Current information from the CAAR MLS (Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors) indicates consistent interest in the neighborhood, with properties spanning from attractive entry-level options to completely renovated historic treasures commanding premium valuations.
Recent transactions in the CAAR MLS demonstrate several noteworthy patterns. Properties such as 1316 Chesapeake Street have attracted considerable attention, with this specific residence being adjusted from its initial $499,900 listing to $329,800, illustrating both the current marketplace’s price awareness and the possibilities for informed purchasers. The property, situated merely four residences from Meade Park Pool, exemplifies the neighborhood’s attraction, historic character combined with modern conveniences and recreational facilities.
Another significant recent listing at 213 Meade Avenue presented a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom, 750-square-foot detached residence, priced competitively and featuring open house events that attracted substantial interest from prospective buyers. These smaller properties frequently serve as excellent entry opportunities into the neighborhood for first-time purchasers or those seeking an attractive residence near downtown Charlottesville.
The neighborhood has additionally experienced some premium-level transactions, with properties on Market Street East selling for $685,000 in March 2025, representing a 3% increase over the original listing price of $665,000. This trend suggests strong buyer confidence in the neighborhood’s continued appreciation prospects.
Community Features and Lifestyle Benefits of Woolen Mills Real Estate
Among the most attractive elements of homes for sale in Woolen Mills is the exceptional lifestyle quality the neighborhood delivers. Meade Park functions as the community’s premier attraction, featuring a recently renovated pool that transforms into the social center during summer seasons. The park’s playground, open areas, and walking trails establish natural meeting places where neighbors develop friendships and community relationships flourish.
The Rivanna Trail network, accessible directly from the neighborhood, provides miles of hiking and cycling opportunities along the picturesque Rivanna River. For outdoor enthusiasts, this represents an remarkable amenity, the capability to exit your residence and enter nature while remaining just minutes from downtown Charlottesville’s urban conveniences.
Riverview Park supplies additional recreational possibilities, while the neighborhood’s proximity to the Rivanna River offers fishing, kayaking, and peaceful riverside reflection. The area’s industrial heritage receives celebration rather than concealment, with the preserved mill buildings functioning as both historical landmarks and active community spaces.
The culinary environment in and surrounding Woolen Mills has flourished tremendously in recent years. The Wool Factory, located in the renovated mill buildings, provides craft beer, farm-to-table dining, and event venues that regularly host community activities. Beer Run, a cherished local establishment in nearby Belmont, offers gourmet sandwiches, craft beer, and a casual environment that represents the neighborhood’s relaxed sophistication.
For coffee enthusiasts, the Wool Factory’s coffee establishment provides artisanal beverages in an environment that perfectly combines industrial heritage with modern comfort. The evening transforms the space into a wine bar, creating multiple opportunities for social interaction throughout the day.
Educational and Professional Advantages
Families evaluating Woolen Mills historic homes benefit from proximity to some of Virginia’s premier educational institutions. The University of Virginia, located just minutes away, provides not only world-class higher education opportunities but also cultural amenities including museums, concerts, and sporting events that enhance community life year-round.
Local elementary and middle schools serve the neighborhood, while the brief commute to downtown Charlottesville opens access to numerous professional opportunities. The area’s expanding technology sector, healthcare institutions, and service industries provide diverse employment options for residents.
The neighborhood’s location offers the ideal balance, sufficiently close to urban amenities and employment centers for convenience, yet removed enough to maintain the peaceful, small-town atmosphere that makes Woolen Mills distinctive.
Woolen Mills Charlottesville Homes for Sale – Investment Value and Market Projections
From an investment standpoint, Woolen Mills real estate offers attractive benefits. The neighborhood’s historic designation provides certain protections that help maintain property values over time. The restricted housing inventory, combined with increasing interest in walkable, historically significant neighborhoods, creates natural scarcity that supports long-term appreciation.
The ongoing revitalization of the mill buildings demonstrates the area’s dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing modern applications. This thoughtful development strategy attracts the type of residents who value historic character and are prepared to invest in maintaining and enhancing their properties.
Transportation enhancements, including improved pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure connecting Woolen Mills to downtown Charlottesville, continue to increase the neighborhood’s accessibility and appeal. These investments by the city demonstrate recognition of Woolen Mills’ significance and commitment to its continued prosperity.
Partnering with a Neighborhood Expert Woolen Mills Realtor
As a Woolen Mills Charlottesville realtor since 2003, I’ve cultivated comprehensive knowledge of every street, every home style, and every unique characteristic that makes this neighborhood exceptional. My experience includes assisting buyers in understanding the complexities of purchasing historic properties, from identifying original architectural features worth preserving to understanding maintenance requirements and renovation possibilities.
I’ve guided clients through purchases ranging from move-in ready homes to complete renovation projects, always ensuring they understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany owning a piece of Charlottesville history. My five-star client reviews reflect not just successful transactions, but satisfied homeowners who found exactly the right property for their lifestyle and budget.
The key to success in the Woolen Mills market is understanding that you’re not simply purchasing a house, you’re joining a community with a rich history and bright future. Each property tells a story, and finding the right match between buyer and home requires expertise, patience, and genuine appreciation for what makes this neighborhood extraordinary.
Future Prospects for Woolen Mills
The future outlook for homes for sale in Woolen Mills appears exceptionally promising. The neighborhood’s combination of historic character, modern amenities, and strong community spirit positions it perfectly for continued growth and appreciation. New businesses in the renovated mill buildings continue to attract visitors and residents, while thoughtful development preserves the area’s essential character.
Infrastructure improvements, including enhanced pedestrian connections to downtown and improved parking solutions, address practical concerns while maintaining the neighborhood’s walkable charm. The community’s active neighborhood association ensures that resident voices are heard in planning decisions, fostering the kind of civic engagement that keeps neighborhoods vibrant and desirable.
For those considering a move to Woolen Mills, I always emphasize that timing in this market rewards decisive action. The limited inventory of Woolen Mills historic homes means that exceptional properties often generate multiple offers quickly. Working with an experienced Woolen Mills Charlottesville realtor who knows the market intimately can make the difference between disappointment and finding your perfect home.
My Final Thoughts: Your Historic Residence Awaits
Following more than two decades assisting families in discovering the appeal of Woolen Mills, I remain convinced that this neighborhood offers something genuinely special in today’s real estate market. The combination of authentic historic character, strong community bonds, modern amenities, and excellent location creates a living experience that enriches daily life in ways that new construction simply cannot match.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer drawn to the neighborhood’s charm and affordability, a growing family seeking community and character, or an investor recognizing the long-term potential of historic properties, Woolen Mills offers opportunities worth serious consideration.
Woolen Mills Charlottesville homes for sale reward those who appreciate authenticity, value community, and understand that a home is more than just a structure, it’s a connection to history, a foundation for future memories, and an investment in a way of life that’s becoming increasingly rare in our fast-paced world.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of homes for sale in Woolen Mills, I invite you to contact me to discuss your specific needs and begin the exciting journey toward homeownership in one of Charlottesville’s most beloved neighborhoods.
Together, we’ll find the historic home that’s perfectly suited to write the next chapter of your family’s story.
Toby Beavers has been a trusted Charlottesville realtor since 2003, specializing in historic properties and luxury homes throughout the greater Charlottesville area. With over 100 successful transactions and consistently five-star client reviews, Toby brings unmatched expertise and dedication to every client relationship.
Contact Toby today to begin your Woolen Mills home search.
Toby Beavers, a Woolen Mills realtor since 2003, may be reached by text or phone at 434-327-2999