Established in 1957 the Westmoreland Davis Memorial Foundation is more than just a foundation. It’s a living legacy. It’s a testament to the life and times of Westmoreland Davis and his wife Marguerite. Look around you. You stand before the heart of Morven Park. This magnificent estate once belonged to them. A successful lawyer Westmoreland Davis transformed Morven Park into a thriving livestock farm. He raised cattle hogs sheep and poultry. His passion for agriculture extended to helping other farmers. This led to his election as Governor of Virginia in 1917.
During his governorship from 1918 to 1922 Marguerite played her part. She volunteered in a munitions factory supporting World War I efforts. She also bravely served as a nurse during the devastating 1918-1919 influenza pandemic. Their dedication extended beyond their careers. They were avid equestrians deeply involved in the Virginia fox hunting community. Westmoreland was a founding member of the Loudoun Hunt even serving as Master of Foxhounds.
After Governor Davis’s death in 1942 Marguerite established the Westmoreland Davis Memorial Foundation. She ensured Morven Park’s preservation for future generations. Today the Davis Mansion showcases its early 20th-century charm. Each room holds original furnishings and décor. Guided tours reveal not just the Davis’s lives but the social and political landscape of Loudoun County in the early 20th century. The foundation works to preserve more than just the mansion. They are also dedicated to telling the complete story of Morven Park. That includes acknowledging the lives of the approximately 80 men women and children who were enslaved there from around 1800 to 1864. Their research is ongoing dedicated to recognizing and honoring their contributions.
The Westmoreland Davis Memorial Foundation continues to thrive. It hosts events and programs. It welcomes visitors to explore the expansive grounds. The foundation’s commitment to preservation education and community engagement makes Morven Park a place of historical significance and lasting beauty. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of this land. A story that continues to unfold. A story that waits for you to discover.