Adaland, or the Modisett Mansion, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Mr. Augustus Modisett was an interesting local historical figure as a prominent business man and land owner.  The Modisett family arrived in our area in the 1780s.  Augustus refused to serve in the Civil War; instead, he hired another to serve in his place.  He went on to serve as Barbour County Sheriff from 1866-1869.  During that period of time, Mr. Modisett built his cut-fieldstone and brick, Greek Revival, “house on the hill” for all to see (1868). 

The mansion was renamed Adaland upon purchase by Ira Robinson in 1920, another equally significant Barbour County resident, in honor of his wife and daughter.  Mr. Robinson served as the Prosecuting Attorney for nearby Taylor County, and was appointed as State Supreme Court Justice.  He was the Treasurer for the State Industrial School for Boys, as well as the Dean of the College of Law of the West Virginia University system.  Mr. Robinson made a failed bid to serve as Governor of West Virginia, but was appointed to the Federal Radio Commission by President Calvin Coolidge, and served as the Special Assistant to the Attorney General of the Unites States.

Barbour County’s Adaland offers historical tours of the mansion and features public gardens, a barn and a gift shop. The venue is also available for special events, such as weddings and school tours. Check the website for more information about touring this historic site as you plan an exciting visit to Barbour County.