Across the river from downtown, this mansion was built between 1768 and 1771 by wealthy planter William Fitzhugh, who supported the Revolution politically and financially. George Washington visited twice. Now the headquarters of the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, during the Civil War Chatham served as headquarters for Federal commanders -- Lincoln visited his generals here -- and as a Union field hospital where American Red Cross founder Clara Barton and poet Walt Whitman assisted the wounded. You can tour five rooms and the grounds on your own. The dining room and parlor have exhibits on Chatham's owners and its role in the Civil War, which is explained by a 12-minute film. Also worth watching is a 30-minute video about the war's impact on Fredericksburg's civilian populace. National Park Service employees are on hand to answer questions and lead guided tours.