Built in two phases, the earliest section was constructed sometime between 1829 and 1846 for Ann Arnold Key and Daniel Turner, the daughter and son-in-law of Francis Scott Key. Its expansion and fashionable updates were likely commissioned by Richard B. Robinson who purchased Reedy Rill in 1854. The resulting form and exuberant detail are thought to be the work of Jacob Holt, a popular builder among the area’s tastemakers. Reedy Rill has been in the Twitty Family for over a century.

An archival photo of Reedy Rill provides valuable evidence of the fanciful decorative woodwork that was once displayed on the exterior. Against an otherwise traditional Greek Revival form, Holt added Italianate brackets along the roof cornice, placed two-story engaged pilasters at each corner, and arranged paired porch posts linked by delicate woodwork, brackets and balustrade along the wide one-story front porch. Though much of its more exuberant decoration was lost or removed, the engaged corner pilasters, tall graceful paired windows with arched top sashes with tracery, an elaborate front entrance with double-leaf arched panel doors, a transom and sidelights accentuated by delicate tracery within arched and circular windows, divided by heavy brackets and molding remain. The low hipped roof is punctuated by two interior stucco chimneys and the tall stone foundation, which houses a full basement, is finished with scored stucco.

The house has been unoccupied for several years and will require a complete rehabilitation including restoration of the front porch, restoration of the windows, mechanical systems, structural repair of the rear addition (or construction of a new addition), and new bathrooms and kitchen. The once admired winding front drive has become overgrown, though several of the ancient boxwood survive. This remarkable property has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since the early 1970s and is eligible for tax credits.

Located near Lake Gaston and Kerr Lake and only an hour from Raleigh, Warren County is admired for its picturesque scenery, charming character, and remarkably preserved historic buildings. Dozens of properties are listed in the National Register of Historic Places including much of historic Warrenton, the county seat. Only one hour to Research Triangle Park region and 1.5 hours to Richmond, VA.