Tinbridge Hill in Lynchburg, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

Jane Owens (d. 1835)

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), August 14, 2021

1. Jane Owens (d. 1835) Marker

Inscription.
In the Owens family enclosure towards the East are buried Jane and Owen Owens. They lived in the Miller-Claytor House when it was on the corner of 8th and Church Streets. Here they established the first circulating library in Lynchburg, making available 2,000 volumes of standard British and French authors. Here also they established a school. Mrs. Owens used the new Webster's Spelling Book and the Bible and Testaments as sole reading books for beginners. She also stressed good conduct, refined manners, and an appreciation for beauty.

Her garden was renowned and attracted the attention of horticulturist and U.S. President Thomas Jefferson. Local legend states it was here that Jefferson ate the poisonous "love apple", or tomato, to the horror of his hostess.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Cemeteries & Burial Sites • Education • Horticulture & Forestry • Women. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #03 Thomas Jefferson series list.

Location. 37° 24.857′ N, 79° 9.319′ W. Marker is in Lynchburg, Virginia. It is in Tinbridge Hill. Marker can be reached from Taylor Street north of 4th Street when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 400 Taylor St, Lynchburg VA 24501, United States of America. Touch for directions.

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At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Joseph Parker (here, next to this marker); To the Grave of the Nieces of George Washington (here, next to this marker); Agnes and Lizzie Langley (a few steps from this marker); Israel Snead (1780-1844) (a few steps from this marker); Virginia M. Cabell Randolph (a few steps from this marker); Dr. Phillip F. Morris (within shouting distance of this marker); The Early Mayors (within shouting distance of this marker); Eleanor Custis Lewis Carter (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lynchburg.

Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), August 14, 2021

2. Jane Owens (d. 1835) Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 17, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 110 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 17, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.