Right here at Hayfield, history whispers from the very ground beneath our feet. This land boasts a past intertwined with one of America’s most iconic figures George Washington. Back in 1761 Washington acquired this property. He sought to expand his Mount Vernon Estate. Hayfield served as his hayfield.
After the Revolutionary War Washington sold 360 acres to his cousin Lund Washington. Lund Washington was also his plantation manager. This sale settled a debt. Lund and his wife Elizabeth built Hayfield Manor House. The manor stood near Hayfield Road and Bing Court.
The land changed hands several times over the years. Richard Windsor bought Hayfield in 1860. William E Clark then purchased the property in 1874. During Clark’s time a unique barn was constructed. This barn had sixteen sides. It was modeled after George Washington’s barn built in 1793. The Hayfield barn unfortunately burned down in 1967.
In 1906 Joseph R Atkinson acquired Hayfield. J.M. Duncan then purchased it from Atkinson. Duncan was the last owner to live in the manor house before it burned down in 1917. The land then went to Hayfield Farm Company Inc. Stanton R. Norman acquired the property in 1918. He sold the remaining bricks from the manor house ruins.
Later Marguerite Merigold and her mother purchased 175 acres. They allowed the Junior Equitation School to use it. In 1952 W.S. Banks and W.M. Orr bought the property. They used the land to raise cattle. Wills and Van Metre Inc. purchased the land in 1963. They developed the Hayfield subdivision. The first home was sold in 1965. The project was completed in 1972.
Hayfield Secondary School also carries this rich history. George Washington acquired the land around 1761. He wanted to expand his Mount Vernon Estate. The school derives its name from Washington’s use of the land as his hayfield.
The area around Hayfield Secondary School has transformed over the years. In 1969 there was no Giant Shopping Center or Kingstowne. Houses in Hayfield Farms sold for $30000 which was considered an amazingly large sum. A working farm with a cow even existed next to the football field on Hayfield Road.
Even though the area has developed over the years, Hayfield retains its charm. With its mature trees well-kept landscaping and a true feeling of community, Hayfield offers a wonderful place for families. The community pool and swim team are amazing. The schools are great. The suburb’s history connects us to the past. It also enriches our present. As you explore Hayfield remember the layers of history beneath your feet.