“The Marvel among the Hills.” That’s what they called Locust Hill. It was more than sixteen times larger than the average home when first built. Today we explore its story. Locust Hill stands as a testament to history. It has witnessed generations come and go.
Locust Hill was constructed for Lucy Washington. She was George Washington’s great-granddaughter. She later married John Bainbridge Packette. Imagine the grand celebrations and gatherings that once filled these halls.
Now, step back in time to 1865. The Civil War raged. Union General Philip Sheridan occupied Locust Hill. He used it as his headquarters. Confederate General Jubal Early’s soldiers attacked the home. Envision the chaos and conflict that unfolded here. The walls of Locust Hill have truly seen it all.
Let’s talk about John Thomson Mason, another notable figure connected to Locust Hill. He was a prominent American jurist. Mason also served as Attorney General of Maryland in 1806. He was the nephew of Founding Father George Mason. Locust Hill was his home.
Architecturally, Locust Hill embodies the Federal style. It features Flemish-bond brickwork. Notice the brick water table. Admire the twelve-over-twelve double-sash windows. The fanlights over the formal entrances add a touch of elegance. The two-story front portico is particularly noteworthy. It served as the inaugural stand for Franklin D. Roosevelt’s second presidential inauguration in 1937.
Beyond the main house, the property includes farm buildings. An early 20th-century frame barn stands with its jerkinhead roof. These structures remind us of Locust Hill’s agricultural past.
Consider the events that took place here. Ann Mason Tutt married Charles Bonnycastle at Locust Hill on January 10, 1826. Mary Barnes Tutt married John Aris Throckmorton here on March 14, 1839. Locust Hill was a place of significant family milestones.
Today, Locust Hill Farm encompasses 4,578 acres of diverse wildlife habitat. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The preserve borders Cedar Mountain. A historic Civil War battle took place there on August 9, 1862. Confederate army camps once existed on this land. It is not uncommon to find Civil War artifacts here.
Locust Hill Farm is a haven for deer, turkeys, and geese. The land has been on a Deer Management Assistance Program since 1989. This has led to a high population of trophy whitetail deer and wild turkeys.
So, as you stand here at Locust Hill, reflect on its rich history. From its grand beginnings to its role in the Civil War. From its architectural beauty to its natural surroundings. Locust Hill stands as a reminder of the past. Its stories continue to resonate through time.