The Federal/Georgian[3] style, 2+1⁄2-story home was built in 1828 by Samuel Alsop, Jr. as a wedding present for his daughter, Clementina.

[1][4][5] Alsop built several notable houses in Spotsylvania County including Kenmore, Spotswood Inn, and Fairview.

Oakley was part of a grant of 7,777 acres (3,147 ha) given to Gawain Corbin by the King of England.

[5] Oakley is located near the site of many major battles of the American Civil War.

A Yankee soldier disobeyed his Major's orders to burn the house down.