On 8 September 1862 Confederate Gen. J. E. B. Stuart was walking, after having eaten with a local family at their invitation, when he discovered Landon House, (at the time known as the Landon Female Academy). The building was unoccupied at the time. While exploring the house, Stuart discovered a ballroom on the east end. Stuart felt the need for a break from the war and decided to hold a ball there that night to give his men and himself a rest from the war. The ballroom was decorated with flags and roses for the ball. Music was provided by the 18th Mississippi Cavalry's regimental band. Ladies living in Urbana were invited to attend. The ball became known as the Sabers and Roses Ball.
