from throughout | | 6 kitchen | cottage lighted stream, acres
ROAD
SPRING GLADE
MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA
French Country home, with renovations in 1999 & 2017 | 4 BR, 5 full & 2 half BA, 5 FP, hardwood floors, flagstone terrace | Beautiful drive to hilltop stetting overlooking pond, lake & mountains | Im provements include pool, 2-car garage, 2 BR guest house & apartment | Lovely boxwood gardens | Kitchen allowance to be provided | 79.89 acres
MARSHALL, VIRGINIA
Well protected Fauquier location | 6 bedrooms | 4 full and 2 half baths | 3 fireplaces | Great views | Pool with large flagstone terrace | Large county kitchen | 4-car detached garage with apartment/ office | 9-stall barn | Covered arena | Outdoor ring | 4 stall shed row barn | 51 fenced acres
$3,690,000
&
1/2
A remarkable property located within a private enclave just minutes from town | Stone and stucco manor house with main level master suite | 7 additional BR | 5 stone FP | Beautiful gardens, terraces, salt water pool,
FARM
GRACE HILL
SAINT LOUIS ROAD
ISAAC EATON HOUSE
MILLWOOD ROAD
WESTERN VIEW
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INTERN: Emerson Leger
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ON THE COVER
The Jenkins family of Middleburg-based Omega Construction spends a summer day in town with a visit to The Upper Crust Bakery for ice cream. For more ways to stay cool this summer, turn to page 6. Photo by Gracie Savage.
ON THIS PAGE
The Norris House in Leesburg dates back to the 1700s and is a stop on the Leesburg historic walking tour. Middleburg Life’s Heidi Baumstark takes readers on two more tours, Warrenton and Middleburg, in her article on page 14. Photo by Sherri Holdridge.
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Lily Pad | 1388 Crenshaw Road, Marshall
| $4,500,000
with Michael Rankin
Fairfield Farm |
Fairfield Lane, Berryville Offered
Shenandoah Valley
Mayapple Farm | 35571 Millville Road, Middleburg Offered at $4,250,000 Village Hamlet | 1 Chinn Lane, Middleburg
| $1,200,000
with Bundles Murdock
Old Barboursville Road | Gordonsville, 136 Acres Offered at $1,450,000
Stillpoint Farm | 315 Piedmont Avenue, Little Washington Offered at $2,900,000
CONTRIBUTORS
Shannon Ayres is a Reston-based freelance photographer. His work has appeared in Arlington, Chesapeake Life, Northern Virginia, Virginia Business, and USA Today magazines. He has an MFA in fine art photography from San Francisco’s Academy of Art University. His editorial work can be seen at sdayres.com
Callie Broaddus is a Warrenton native and graduate of the University of Virginia. After seven years as a book designer at National Geographic Kids, Callie founded the nonprofit, Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, in 2019. Callie’s land preservation projects and focus on youth empowerment are aided by her talent as a professional photographer. In her spare time, Callie enjoys Earl Grey tea, “Harry Potter” trivia, and dreaming of getting back into the jumper ring.
Caroline Gray is a D.C.-based conservation and freelance photographer. A Virginia native and MBA graduate from the University of Virginia, her work blends a love for exploration, nature, and horses with her fashion background. When not behind the camera, Caroline enjoys hiking with her Labrador, Captain, visiting her retired horse, Cleverly, and exploring new restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Diane Helentjaris chose Loudoun as her “forever home” in 1990. A former clinical physician and public health administrator, she has returned to her humanities roots. Diane’s latest book, “I Ain’t Afraid — The World of Lulu Bell Parr, Wild West Cowgirl,” is a rollicking biography. Her novel “The Indenture of Ivy O’Neill” won the 2024 Maryland Writers’ Association novel competition in the historical/romance category.
Dulcy B. Hooper and her husband Richard moved to the country from Washington, D.C., nearly 10 years ago. Shortly thereafter, both began writing occasional articles for Middleburg Life. Dogs are a big part of the Hoopers’ lives and several of Dulcy’s earlier articles focused on the couple’s Chinese crested powderpuffs!
Beth Rasin graduated from Middlebury College, where she studied nonfiction creative writing. She worked as a writer and editor at The Chronicle of the Horse for more than 25 years, including 10 years as the president and executive editor. As a freelancer, she’s contributed since 2015 to Middleburg Life, as well as Northern Virginia Magazine, Blue Ridge Outdoors, the former Loudoun Magazine, and many others. She lives in Hume, where she and her husband and daughter run a boarding facility for retired horses. She enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with her adopted dogs and cats.
Shayda Windle is a freelance writer covering the arts, people, and places that make Hunt Country so special. Her work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, the Fairfax County Times, and several online media outlets. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and exploring Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.
Heidi Baumstark has been writing for several lifestyle magazines and newspaper publications since 2005, specializing in history-related articles highlighting Virginia’s Piedmont. She has been with Middleburg Life since 2014. Heidi hopes to inspire readers to pause and consider the people, places, and events that have shaped the story of our local history.
Michael Butcher is the owner of Butcher Photography. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, he resides in Springfield, Virginia, with his family. For the past 15 years, Michael has specialized in portraiture, event, and editorial photography. When not behind the lens, he enjoys gardening and swimming. More of Michael’s work can be found at butcherphotography.com
Laticia Headings is grateful to call Middleburg home. She discovered Middleburg by attending the first annual Middleburg Film Festival in 2013 and has come back to the event every year since as a volunteer and attendee. Laticia is the founder of Latitude Media and has 23 years of experience as a producer, writer, and camerawoman for television (Discovery, National Geographic), and for the documentary film
“Everest: A Climb for Peace.”
Lia Hobel is a freelance journalist, known for her blog, Uplift Loudoun. In addition to her work for Middleburg Life, Lia writes periodically for online platforms with articles appearing on GOBankingRates, Forbes, Huffington Post, and Yahoo! She is a Loudoun 40 Under 40 honoree and a Certified Tourism Ambassador for the county.
Bill Kent’s journalism has appeared in more than 40 national and regional publications including The Washington Post, Art & Antiques, Philadelphia Magazine, Baltimore Magazine, New Jersey Monthly, and The Hunt. A former correspondent for The New York Times, he taught writing and journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers, and Temple universities, and is the author of seven novels, a Fodor’s Guide, and a history of Atlantic City. When not writing, he enjoys walking his westies on Washington Street.
Gracie Savage is a local photographer who grew up in the village of Aldie and has been photographing local weddings, portraits, and events since 2016. Her passion began when she received her first camera in middle school and she continued to study the craft in high school and in college. She was a photographer at Georgetown University for over three years and joined Middleburg Life as a contributor in the spring of 2022.
Also in this issue: Camden Littleton and Sherri Holdridge.
How To Stay Cool in Hunt Country This Summer
Written by Emerson Leger
If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Middleburg Life has you covered. We’ve curated a list of the best spots across Hunt Country to treat your sweet tooth, enjoy a dip in the water, or experience local artistic talent in the air-conditioning. With temperatures on the rise, try one of the following activities and stay cool out there!
IN THE POOL
Middleburg Community Center Pool
The Middleburg Community Center pool is open seven days a week. Membership is not required and the pool is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Guests can bring kids and friends to the pool to lounge, enjoy the water, swim laps, or take swim lessons. Lap swimming is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. To ramp up the fun, pool parties are also available for reservation, with a two-hour minimum.
Don’t worry about getting hungry — there’s a snack shack for all of your pool munchie needs. For those wanting to just lay in the sun and get a nice tan, lounge chairs are provided.
The community center pool is open for the summer, so come by to take a dip and be sure to say “hi” to
everyone’s favorite lifeguard, Evan.
Middleburg Community Center
300 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117
Goodstone Inn’s Pool
At Goodstone Inn, guests from afar can come and experience the tranquility of Hunt Country. And locals don’t have to stay at the inn to experience its amenities, including its luxurious pool. For those looking for a quiet place to tan or curl up with a nice summer read, the pool at Goodstone Inn might be the perfect spot.
“Goodstone is offering day passes for the pool through ResortPass,” Goodstone spokesperson Nicole Van Stralen says.
The day pass allows access to the pool, hot tub, towels, food and drinks, changing area, and free WiFi. Bring your family, friends, or just yourself to experience the peaceful atmosphere this pool has to offer.
Goodstone Inn 36205 Snake Hill Road Middleburg, VA 20117
Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center
The Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center is a part of Loudoun County
Summer | Page 7
Eliyanah, Leah, and Mason Jenkins enjoy a splash in the Middleburg Community Center pool. Photo by Gracie Savage.
Summer | From page 6
Parks, Recreation, and Community Services. The general admission is $3 for kids and seniors, and $4 for adults.
“We are open to everybody, whether you are a Loudon County resident, whether you live in Clarke County, Fauquier, Jefferson — everyone is welcome here,” Genie Rovang, the center manager, says.
The center offers lap swimming, water fitness classes, and a place where kids can play with parents and friends. Swim lessons are also offered. The pool goes to 4.5 feet deep and has four lap lanes.
After a closure this July for maintenance, the center will reopen in early August. “It seems like a lot, but we are 10 years old and the girl needs a facelift,” Rovang explains.
Other than the four-week shutdown, Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center is open year-round for any type of swimming or if you just want to dip your toes in.
Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center 17010 Evening Star Drive Round Hill, VA 20141
FROZEN TREATS
Effee’s Frozen Favorites
Effee’s Frozen Favorites, known by the locals as Effee’s, is an old-school ice cream shop located off Lee Highway in Warrenton. It’s been open for 22 years, starting as an idea between two friends: Leslie Farris and Roslyn Eadi.
“We decided the area needed something, and what better thing to have than an ice cream shop and a country feel?” Farris explains.
The name “Effee’s” came from combining two F’s, representing Farris, and two E’s, representing Eadi. Farris’ kids designed the logo, featuring a chubby penguin. The shop is known as a family-oriented business with love for their customers.
“People come here to socialize,” Farris says.
Around Effee’s is a patch of green grass, where families can kick a soccer ball or throw a frisbee. When it’s busy, customers bring their own chairs to sit on the grass and chat. Some people have stopped by every year for the past 22 years to enjoy what Effee’s is known best for: their shakes.
“One kid came up with a blueberry muffin shake — it tastes just like a blueberry muffin,” Farris shares.
Sometimes it’s Effee’s employees who come up with new flavors. Effee’s menu is not set in stone, which allows visitors to customize their orders. The menu includes banana splits, shakes, funnel cakes, brownie sundaes, and soft-serve ice cream. There’s also a rotating flavor of the week and a special sundae. Italian ice is an option as well, for those who would like a refreshing dairy-free alternative.
“When we leave and close up, people can still hang out with their ice cream and play in the grass,” Farris says. “The biggest thing is the quality of our products, the friendliness of our employees, and our customer service is really good.”
Effee’s Frozen Favorites
5051 Lee Highway Warrenton, VA 20186
Swirlie’s Treats
Swirlie’s Treats, located in Haymarket, is a soft-serve ice cream place that offers a plethora of options for any ice cream lover.
Aside from the usual sundaes and milkshakes, a menu item called Razzles — soft-serve ice cream with toppings mixed in — sets the shop apart. The flavors offered for Razzles include everything from Brookie to Turtle Pecan Cluster. If any of the given options don’t appeal, customers also have the choice to build their own.
This summer, make your way over to Swirlie’s to explore a new ice cream option: the Razzle!
Swirlie’s Treats
15401 Kapp Valley Way Haymarket, VA 20169
Homespun
Homespun is a farm-to-table restaurant located in Berryville. It began in 2021 as an offshoot of Smith Meadows Farm. The shop is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., closing at 7 p.m. on Sundays.
Homespun is known for its burgers and shakes. Its menu features all the toppings and sauces you can think of to give customers the perfect burger.
The ice cream is homemade, either hand dipped or soft serve. There are eight rotating seasonal flavors, along with the three timeless flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Patrons can also create a root beer float, a sundae, or order a Homespun chocolate chip ice cream sandwich.
It’s a must-visit on a hot day!
Homespun 20 W. Main Street Berryville, VA 22611
EXHIBITS IN THE AC
AiM’s “Something Red” Exhibit
The Artists in Middleburg gallery is hosting a “Something Red” art exhibit from July 5 through August 3. There will be an opening reception on July 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. Artists were asked to loosely interpret the theme, “Red,” for creative variety.
“They can submit work that explores the multifaceted nature of red, from its emotional response to its cultural and historical significance,” Assistant Director Laura Fulton says.
The exhibit is free, displaying the work of local artists who live within 50 miles of Middleburg. There is a wide age range and demographic, with the youngest 12 years old and the oldest artists in their 90s.
“We are trying to keep minds and bodies active and engaged, giving people a purpose and confidence, using all the skills we have,” Fulton shares.
Summer | Page 8
An Effee’s sweet treat, complete with a cherry on top. Photo by Callie Broaddus.
| From page 7
Artists in Middleburg
102 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117
The Byrne Gallery’s “Ocean Dreams” Exhibit
Experience the beach without leaving Middleburg at The Byrne Gallery’s “Oceans Dreams”
exhibit. On view from July 3 to August 31, the gallery will include artists’ renderings of the East Coast’s most majestic shorelines. Gerald Hennesy, Shawn Hennesy, Jeff Kibler, and Anne Stine are the participating artists and are all based in Washington, D.C., or Virginia.
The Byrne Gallery
7 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117
“The Heart of the Turf” at NSLM
“The Heart of the Turf” exhibit, hosted by the National Sporting Library & Museum, is a traveling exhibition organized by the Keeneland Library in Lexington, Kentucky. The display contains texts and panels that give an overview of the Black experience of racing, from the antebellum era to the present. Also featured in the exhibit are
Just
reproductions of antique photographs of jockeys, trainers, and handlers that were reproduced to get the true depth and detail of these men and women.
“We feel strongly in telling the whole truth and to pay tribute to these amazing men and women,” Claudia Pfeiffer, the George L. Ohrstrom Jr. deputy director and head curator, says.
The exhibition is open until September 13, showcasing the African Americans who helped make the racing industry what it is today.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to partner with Keeneland Library,” Pfeiffer says, “and they did great work in creating this traveling exhibition and bringing it to Middleburg.” ML
National Sporting Library & Museum
102 The Plains Road Middleburg, VA 20117
Summer
“Electric Tulips” by Patty Craighill can be found in AiM’s “Something Red” exhibit.
Meet Your Neighbor: Goose Creek Association’s New Executive Director Reimagines Environmental Outreach
Written by Shayda Windle | Photos by Caroline Gray
“What sets us apart is that the majority of our programming is accomplished by dedicated volunteers — whether it’s citizen scientists in our benthic stream monitoring program or high school students planting trees on area properties — allowing us to engage directly with students, local residents, and environmental advocates.” – Borowczyk
Anative of Buffalo, New York, Alyson Borowczyk moved to Loudoun two years ago armed with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history, along with years of experience as a museum educator, curator, and nonprofit marketing professional. Her passion for wildlife, birding, horses, and the outdoors made the administrative director position at Goose Creek Association a natural fit. Since joining GCA, Borowczyk has aimed to promote community engagement and operational efficiency within the nonprofit.
As the GCA board recognized the opportunity for growth for the organization, specifically in the eastern Loudoun region of Northern Virginia and beyond, they also saw a need for additional leadership. This May, the board appointed Borowczyk as executive director, empowering her to lead the association into its next chapter.
“Since 1970,” she shares, “Goose Creek Association has served the entire watershed — from its starting point in northern Fauquier County, through western Loudoun, and finally to eastern Loudoun where it flows into the Potomac.”
While there is no shortage of environmental nonprofits in Hunt Country, GCA stands out as a grassroots organization. “What sets us apart is that the majority of our programming is accomplished by dedicated volunteers — whether it’s citizen scientists in our benthic stream monitoring program or high school students planting trees on area properties — allowing us to engage directly with students, local residents, and environmental advocates,” Borowczyk explains.
Citizen Science in Action
Since 2003, GCA’s diligent stream monitoring volunteers have been collecting benthic data from
Goose Creek | Page 11
Alyson Borowczyk.
“My vision is to build a thriving, connected community where members feel empowered to participate and contribute.” – Borowczyk
and the water they rely on.
spots throughout the Goose Creek watershed.
Volunteers collect data at 13 sites across Fauquier and Loudoun counties, helping the organization assess water quality and track changes over time.
“Benthic stream monitoring is a fascinating process,” Borowczyk shares. “Volunteers scrape the bottom of the stream to collect specimens like black fly larvae or aquatic snails. The types of organisms found in these oxygen-rich areas tell us a lot about the health of the ecosystem.”
One of GCA’s hallmark programs, the Goose Creek Challenge, began in 2012 as an initiative to stabilize streambeds and restore habitats through the planting of native trees, shrubs, and grasses. In addition to reducing erosion and improving water quality, the project serves as an educational platform, as it engages Scouts, students, families, and volunteers in hands-on conservation efforts that nurture future stewards of the environment.
Each certified volunteer is assigned a consistent site to ensure data accuracy and avoid cross-contamination. These ongoing programs do more than collect data — they create a tangible connection between community members
To expand its scientific scope, GCA also launched a partnership last year with George Mason University’s Potomac Environmental Research and Education Center to conduct Level III chemical and bacterial monitoring across the watershed. This initiative provides high-quality, regulatory-grade data on key water indicators, including pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and E. coli levels.
“Chemical and bacterial sampling is conducted monthly by trained professors and students from GMU following strict protocols,” Borowczyk says. “It helps us track short-term fluctuations and long-term trends, ensuring we have the insight needed to protect these waterways for future generations.”
What’s Next for GCA
Looking ahead, Borowczyk and the GCA team are focused on deepening community engagement through a slate of new events this fall.
One of the most anticipated events is Experience Goose Creek: A Day on the Water, a reimagined version of the group’s traditional canoe cleanup. Cosponsored by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and Goodstone Inn, the free public event will feature hands-on environmental education, outdoor adventure, and opportunities to connect with the watershed in meaningful ways.
Participants can choose between two experiences: a guided kayak paddle with ecological experts or a land-based “exploration on foot,” which includes a bird walk led by Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and a live aquatic life demonstration featuring macroinvertebrates and other organisms used in stream health assessments.
“This event offers a powerful way for people to connect with the land and water that sustain our communities,” GCA Board Chair Ted Lewis explains. “Whether paddling the creek or discovering its wildlife on foot, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for why Goose Creek is worth protecting.”
In place of its traditional annual meeting, GCA is also planning a regional environmental summit this fall to collaborate with other conservation organizations and amplify shared goals.
“We want to connect with people who haven’t traditionally known about us or the work we do,” Borowczyk says. “It’s time to widen the circle.”
With Borowczyk at the helm, Goose Creek Association is poised to expand its reach and elevate its impact. “My vision is to build a thriving, connected community where members feel empowered to participate and contribute,” she says. “I’m excited to help drive positive change and ensure every voice is heard as we grow.” ML
To become a member of GCA, visit goosecreek.org/ join-us.
Goose Creek | From page 10
Left: Beautiful Goose Creek. Right: Borowczyk and Annie Bellis, Goose Creek Association’s river steward.
Tashae’ Allen
Patty Arwine
Addie Ayers
Sarah Baker
Garrity Buchanan
Hayley Butcher
Anna Carey
Cierra Case
Wawa
Chutguagulvong
AnnaMaria Clarke
Chiara Dellaccio
Ruby Dewling
Shea Gillin
Flora Hannum
Kiki Hughey
Rowan Jones
Riko Kawashima
Subira Kibali
Lulu Knisley
Manabi Kono
Greta Laubach
Gigi Lloyd
Raquel Lopez
Penelope Margaritopoulos
Lily McCrehin
Claire Munoz
Grace Nabit
Margaret Pitt
Elle Pongsuthana
Elizabeth Progar
Elise Rovde
Ava Rudy
Anila Schmidt
Alena Seangatith
Zoe Shao
Avery Stroud
Jeanne
Trudeau-Lalancette
Sara Warmack
Flora Warr
Frankie Wasinger
Reese Wheatstone
Eunice Wu
Hailey Yang
Mina Zoroe
Clemson University
College of Charleston
Emmanuel College
Fordham University
Gettysburg College
Hobart and William Smith Colleges
James Madison University
John Cabot University
Marymount University
McGill University
Middlebury College
Minerva University
North Carolina
State University
Otto Beisheim School of Management
Roanoke College
Rutgers University
South
Southern Methodist University
Stephen F. Austin
State University
Sweet Briar College
The University of Alabama
Tulane University
University of Chicago
University of Kentucky
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
Washington University in St. Louis
Willamette University
William & Mary
Williams College
EMO Stables
Beautifully maintained, 12 stall custom show barn, with a history of great horses, located in the Springs Valley, heart of the Warrenton Hunt. Built to exacting specifications, there are two heated wash/grooming stalls, two air-conditioned tack rooms, full loft, indoor exercise ring and bath. There is an elegant office and large lounge arrangement with kitchen, bath and two bedroom fully equipped apartment that completes the barn. There is a 150x280 all-weather show ring with excellent and well-drained footing, a turn-out field, 5 paddocks with room for more, all with automatic waterers and round pen. There is a fully enclosed three bay garage/workshop and a potential building site with imposing mountain views. All in outstanding order on 18 acres and worthy of inspection at the attractive price of $1,500,000.
Step iNto the paSt with HUNT COUNTRY’S HISTORIC WALKING TOURS
Written by Heidi Baumstark
Northern Virginia has a long and rich past, reaching back to the nation’s earliest days. With walking tours offered in several local historic downtowns, participants leave with a handful of fun facts and new insights into the old structures and cobblestone streets they might pass every day. Leesburg, Middleburg, and Warrenton each offer their own walking tour, helping residents and visitors step into the past and learn something new.
LEESBURG
Loudoun County was formed in 1757, branching off from western Fairfax County, with Leesburg serving continuously as its county seat. But before that, Nicholas Minor Jr. acquired land around the downtown’s major intersection of Carolina Road (U.S. Route 15, King St.), running north to south, and the east-west oriented Potomac Ridge Road (VA Route 7, Market St.). There, he established a tavern, then called an ordinary. In 1757, it was Minor who dubbed the small collection of buildings around his tavern “George Town” in honor of King George II, the reigning British monarch. But that name was short-lived. In 1758, England-born Francis Fauquier approved the name change from George Town to Leesburg to honor Thomas Lee, a planter and politician. Leesburg, located approximately in the middle of Loudoun, was created on Minor’s 60 acres, which included the county courthouse at the crossroads, an office for the county clerk, jail, gallows, and stocks. Town trustees included Minor and two of Thomas Lee’s sons: Philip Ludwell Lee and Francis Lightfoot Lee.
Leesburg resident Carla Mueller, founder of Historic Leesburg Walking Tours, has been leading tours since 2010. Her tours begin at Leesburg Town Hall with stops at over a dozen historic sites, including Loudoun County Courthouse (featuring the American Revolutionary War monument on-site), Lightfoot Restaurant, Glen-
Tours | Page 15
Top left: The signpost outside Glenfiddich House. Top right: Norris House. Middle left: Laurel Brigade Inn. Middle right: The Loudoun Museum. Bottom: St. James Episcopal Church. Photos by Sherri Holdridge.
fiddich House, Loudoun Museum’s Log Cabin, Tally Ho Theater, St. James Episcopal Church, Philip Noland House, John Janney House, Old Stone House, Norris House, Old Leesburg Baptist Church, and recently added stops at Shoe’s Cup & Cork and Laurel Brigade Inn (formerly Peers Tavern).
The original courthouse at the intersection of King and Market streets dates to 1758. On August 12, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was read from its doorway; one of its signers was Francis Lightfoot Lee. A second, larger courthouse was constructed in 1811 with four large stone pillars. The current courthouse is the third iteration, built in 1894.
Across the street from the courthouse is Lightfoot Restaurant, built in 1885 as the People’s National Bank. According to Mueller, another favorite stop is the privately owned Glenfiddich House (formerly Harrison Hall), the first section of which dates to 1780.
Lastly, the Loudoun Museum is a rare diamond-notched log cabin, which serves as an example of rustic frontier architecture from the late 1700s, built in the early 1760s. The museum operates a second structure on the property dating to the 19th century, which houses artifacts, interpretive panels, and is a venue for hosting events and lectures.
MIDDLEBURG
Originally, known as Chinn’s Crossroads, Middleburg dates back to the 1700s, when it was a small hamlet. In more recent history, it was home to former President John and First Lady Jackie Kennedy, who made Middleburg their country getaway in the early 1960s.
The Middleburg Museum is housed in a tiny, 19th-century brick structure known as The Pink Box. A plaque inside the museum states that in 1763, Joseph Chinn (first cousin of George Washington) sold 500 acres to Manassas-born Leven Powell, who was a colonel in the Continental Army. Chinn’s Crossroads had four buildings centered around Chinn’s Ordinary — one of them being a stone tavern that is today’s popular Red Fox Inn. A placard on the stone inn says the ordinary was established circa 1728 and is
thought to be one of the oldest continuously operated inns in Virginia.
After Powell’s service in the Revolutionary War, he returned home to his family. The plaque states, “On November 2, 1787, pursuant to an act of the [Virginia General] Assembly, Powell subdivided 50 acres into 70 one-half acre lots for the development of a town.” He adopted a rectangular grid plan for the town streets, nearly all of which were named for prominent friends of the Constitution such as Washington and Madison, the town’s two main streets.
Powell refused to have the town named for him, so it was called “Middleburgh” because of its location midway on a major trade route between Winchester in the Shenandoah Valley and the port of Alexandria. This route was known as John Mosby Highway, named for Confederate John S. Mosby’s raids up and down this road during the battles of Aldie (June 17, 1863), Middleburg (June 19, 1863), and Upperville (June 21, 1863) in the Civil War. In September 2023, this stretch of U.S. 50 was renamed Little River Turnpike.
The Middleburg Museum offers a free walking tour booklet titled “Destination Middleburg” that features 52 stops and a street map, so visitors can leisurely
walk through the town and read about each stop. Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Eric Buckland leads historic walking tours for Salamander Resort. Following his own military career, he became interested in Mosby’s Rangers in 2005, has authored several books, started giving walking tours in 2015, and is now a guest speaker at history-related events.
Participants on Buckland’s tours learn about the founding of this quaint village, the history of foxhunting, the Kennedys, anecdotes about Mosby’s Rangers, and how the area played a key role in the Civil War. Buckland’s usual stops include the Middleburg Museum, blacksmith shop, Mosby’s Tavern, The Red Fox Inn & Tavern, Jacqueline Kennedy Pavilion, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Sharon Cemetery, Middleburg Baptist Church, the old “Esso” service station, the orig-
| Page 16
Top: The Red Fox Inn & Tavern. Middle left: Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Bottom left: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Pavalion. Bottom right: The Pink Box. Photos by Kaitlin Hill.
Tours | From page 15
inal Middleburg National Bank, and Noble Beveridge House.
“Jackie Kennedy rode horses on grounds on what is now Salamander,” Buckland says. “And supposedly, George Washington stayed at Red Fox Inn during his surveying days before the Revolutionary War.” During the Civil War, the building — as well as area churches and homes — was used as a hospital.
ker Hill and is considered a Revolutionary War hero. Before receiving its current name, however, the town was established as Red Store, a trading post built before the 1760s at the junction of the Falmouth-Winchester (U.S. Route 17) and Alexandria-Culpeper (part of U.S. Route 15 and U.S. Route 29) roads. Fauquier County, established in May 1759, was named for Francis Fauquier, lieutenant governor of Virginia at the time.
The Red Store settlement grew into a court-
Reservations for Buckland’s tours can be made through Salamander.
WARRENTON
Twenty-three miles southwest of Middleburg is Warrenton. The town was named after General Joseph Warren of Massachusetts, a prominent figure in the early days of the revolution. He was killed at the June 17, 1775, Battle of Bun-
house community on 71 acres of land donated by Richard Henry Lee. There have been seven courthouses in Warrenton, and since 1795, four have stood on the same site on Main Street as the existing 1890-built Fauquier Courthouse, which still houses the General District Court. This current courthouse stands at the top of a hill as a notable, historic icon. Earlier structures were destroyed by fire; the original courthouse, from around 1759,
was near Warrenton Cemetery. The town of Warrenton was incorporated and became the county seat in 1810.
One-hour walking tours of downtown Warrenton are offered by the Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail, with different routes that focus on Main Street, Winchester Street, and John S. Mosby. Upcoming tour dates are July 19, August 9, September 20, and October 11. Coming soon will be a Trades Area Guided Walking Tour.
The tours are led by rotating guides, one of whom is Zoltan Farago, who will lead the July 19 John S. Mosby tour. The planned stops include John Singleton Mosby Monument, California House (home of William “Extra Billy” Smith), the barber shop, Beckham House, Warrenton Courthouse, the Old Jail, plus a stop by a building with a bullet in the wall and how it fit into Mosby’s Confederacy. Mosby himself is buried in the Warrenton Cemetery, along with his wife and children. Farago ends at the Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail to discuss how the jail was used during the Civil War and point out related displays.
Also on the tour is the Warren Green Hotel, built in 1819 and then rebuilt in 1876 after a fire. The original structure hosted notable figures, including the French General Marquis de Lafayette in August 1825. Celebrated as a hero in the U.S. and France, Lafayette was one of the only surviving commanders from the Revolutionary War and was invited to tour 24 states from 1824 to 1825. His stay in Warrenton was highly anticipated and met with great enthusiasm. A large stone sits near the courthouse and Old Jail, which he is said to have stood on while addressing the large crowds at what was then Norris Tavern.
For information on Leesburg walking tours, visit historicleesburgwalkingtours.com. More information on Middleburg walking tours can be found at middleburgmuseum.org or salamanderresort.com. For Warrenton walking tours info and tickets, visit fauquierhistory.org. ML
Top left: The Fauquier Courthouse. Right: The Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail. Bottom left: The Warren Green Hotel. Photos by Sherri Holdridge.
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Great Meadow Foundation Celebrates 40 Years of Community & Equestrian Excellence
Written by Shayda Windle
On Saturday, June 14, the Great Meadow Foundation kicked off its 40th anniversary with a magical “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” themed evening. Hosted by Broadway and TV actor Chris Hanke, the night featured cocktails, dinner, live music, dancing, entertainment, and a spirited live auction — set against the breathtaking backdrop of the 380-acre grounds. Entertainment was provided by Freedom Imani and Bryan Fox and Friends.
“As we celebrate 40 years of Great Meadow — and the generations of families, riders, and dreamers who have made it their home — it’s our turn to give back,” said Karen Crane, board chair of the Great Meadow Foundation. “Looking ahead, our grounds need more than admiration; they need action. With your help, we will restore the structures that hold our memories and invest in the tools that keep this land alive and working.”
The Foundation was thrilled to welcome Major Mark Gillespie, a horseman who showed up
in full regalia to honor the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army. Gillespie served 20 years in the Army, commanding armor and cavalry units during the Cold War in Germany. He currently runs the Army Polo Club in The Plains, Virginia, and serves as chairman of the Armed Forces Committee of the U.S. Polo Association.
Governor Glenn Youngkin made a special video appearance at the gala, commending the Great Meadow Foundation for its “fierce dedication to land preservation, the enrichment of cultural and recreational opportunities, and the strengthening of Virginia’s horse industry.” He continued, “The spirit of Virginia is alive and well at Great Meadow. The Foundation plays a vital role in driving economic vitality, boosting tourism, and enhancing quality of life across Northern Virginia and the entire Commonwealth.”
At the gala, Great Meadow Foundation ViceChair Holidae Hayes proudly presented the inaugural Arthur W. Arundel Great Meadow Heritage
Award to Peter Arundel, the
In the years to come, the Foundation will present this award to distinguished individuals whose exceptional contributions embody the Arundel family’s commitment to land preservation and nature conservation. The evening also marked the debut of the Great Meadow Spirit of Sport Award, presented to Michael and Wendy Smith, whose deep passion for horses, dedication to sport, and unwavering commitment to land protection exemplify the highest standards of equestrian excellence. Going forward, this honor will recognize individuals whose efforts in land conservation and equestrian sport reflect these same values. While Great Meadow already welcomes thousands of spectators for a wide range of events, Crane encourages locals to enjoy the space more casually as well. “Come out for a walk, a run, even
Community | Page 19
eldest son of Great Meadow founder Arthur W. “Nick” Arundel.
The Great Meadow grounds. Courtesy photo for Middleburg Life.
Community | From page 18
bring your dog,” she says. Visitors are simply asked to check in with the office when on the property. The site has become a model for adaptive use of open space for community events. The grounds contain four ponds, a small open-air stadium used for Twilight Polo, the Sheila C. Johnson Grass Polo Field, and space for public and private events and activities.
This year’s 100th running of the Virginia Gold Cup, held on May 3, was a milestone moment, drawing more than 25,000 spectators and selling out for the first time since the pandemic. And while the Gold Cup, Twilight Polo, and Fourth of July fireworks remain highlights on the calendar, Crane sees even greater potential on the horizon. “The property is still underutilized,” she notes. “There is so much more that can and will be done at Great Meadow in the future.”
For now, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit. The upcoming Big Boom Independence Day Fireworks Display will light up the sky with 2,500 fireworks, along with music, food, pony rides, and bouncy houses for kids. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, family, and friends for a festive evening under the stars. And don’t miss Music in the Meadow, a live concert series running through September. With panoramic views, top-notch musical talent, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer night.
Crane adds, “Forty years also means that everything on the property is 40 years old. We need to make capital improvements on the property, which is one reason we hosted this fundraiser. We are so
fortunate to live in such a generous, giving, supportive environment, but this property is for everyone.”
The 40th anniversary gala was more than a celebration; it was a call to action. Great Meadow is in urgent need of major restoration efforts, including complete renovation of the historic Summer House, a new roof for the Pavilion, a rebuilt wall at the Polo Arena, and a long list of essential maintenance projects across the property to preserve it for future generations.
The Foundation’s message to supporters was clear: “Whether $100 or $100,000, every gift helps preserve this extraordinary place where tradition meets tomorrow.”
When Arthur Arundel first purchased Great Meadow in the 1980s, he saw what others didn’t. Where some envisioned housing developments, he saw open fields brimming with potential — for preservation, for sport, and for community. He left us with these words: “I cannot imagine a reason for being in these Virginia foothills without pastures, woodlands, and streams. Something will have gone out of us as a people if in our times we let our remaining open countryside to be destroyed. We need available to us forever, these fields, these woods, and marshlands.”
And we couldn’t agree more. ML
To learn more about how you can support the Great Meadow Foundation, visit greatmeadow.org. For those interested in hosting a largescale event at Great Meadow, contact Executive Director Cindy Jeffery at cindy@greatmeadow.org.
For more photos from the Great Meadow 40th Anniversary gala, visit MiddleburgLife.com.
Top: Holidae Hayes, Loran Brueggen, Gigi Aiken, Nicole Barranco, and Kara Krause. Second: Major Mark Gillespie arriving at the Great Meadow Foundation 40th Anniversary Gala. Third: Guests outside the gala. Bottom: Michael Smith, Wendy Smith, and Great Meadow Foundation Board Chair Karen Crane. Photos by Bryan Dozier.
, olden hair saved all these years
ke. Joanne’s life was an sin with a Bachelor of Science
In Memor y of Joanne M. Swift
Joanne Marie Ferkin Swift departed this earth on Sunday, June 1, 2025. Those who knew her would agree Joanne left this place a little more beautiful than when she arrived. Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin to Martin Ferkin and Victoria Kunz Ferkin, little Joanne was beautiful, blonde and smart. Joanne stayed that way--beautiful, blonde and smart. Found among her collected possessions, was a tiny curl of her golden hair saved all these years from a time when a lock of hair was an important keepsake. Joanne’s life was an overflowing cornucopia of special and treasured things
oan the last long and an designer and op om her hed inishing Touch in c was legendar y.
oom dleburg home, was r c nd her honed taste de became known in all
Joanne graduated in 1967 from The University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Science (Art).
Arriving in Virginia in the 1990’s (from Vail via La Jolla) Joanne spent the last long and wonderful chapter of her life in Middleburg as a stalwart and talented designer and decorator A pur veyor of lively and beautiful décor, Joanne operated from her headquarters, The Shaggy Ram, a shop she first established as The Finishing Touch in the 70’s in exciting Vail, Colorado. Joanne’s talent for fabric and fringe was legendar y. Most often heard exclamation if one entered a polished room in a Middleburg home, was “Did Joanne do that?!” So genuine was her instinct for her customer and her honed taste and style that her reputation for quality and lasting home decoration became known in all quarters.
nd could be spotted on ct antiques and the k w hen she passed. ountr y furnishings provided the e also attended by her guests’ creatures. She put her effort 2. One show window of The for the local rescue shelter, with her-- so revered and loved. onounces “Love to All Equines”. use it’d be a pity if you missed oanne ’ s memorial celebration is gy Ram in Middleburg to say s memor y to The Middleburg
Aside from knowing just the entire Middleburg, Virginia community, the ‘good stuff ’ , and where to find it, Joanne could be spotted on King Street in Charleston, South Carolina or in Marrakesh, Morrocco gathering intel on trendy collectibles and antiques and the latest from ‘there’. Joanne was a force in her field. The sources of her inventor y, alas, mostly she took with her when she passed. Joanne’s forays into the nooks and crannies of Great Britain and France seeking wonderful French countr y furnishings provided the laughter and lore around her dinner table. As the not so typical hostess, Joanne’s dinner parties were also attended by her guests’ dogs who were routinely welcomed and fussed over. And dinner was ser ved . . . . with fun.
To say that Joanne was devoted to animal rescue is hardly adequate to caption Joanne’s love of God’s creatures. She put her effort into where her heart was in this regard. Joanne was a co-founder of the Vail Humane Society in 1972. One show window of The Shaggy Ram is wallpapered with photos of unwanted homeless animals a veritable satellite station for the local rescue shelter, donkey sanctuaries, and animal charities from ever ywhere Her personal pets and horses are forever with her-- so revered and loved No one respected four legged creatures more than Joanne. Her Morningstar Farm in The Plains, pronounces “Love to All Equines”.
Joanne was something else. She did this thing her way and with ver ve. Hope you knew Joanne, because it’d be a pity if you missed that wonderful experience
Joanne Swift is sur vived by five nieces and nephews, all children of her late brother, Donald Ferkin Joanne’s memorial celebration is planned for September to take place in a close friend’s home chapel. Please visit Joanne’s The Shaggy Ram in Middleburg to say goodbye to this remarkable woman. In lieu of flowers and cards, please consider donating in Joanne’s memor y to The Middleburg Humane Foundation, Post Office Box 684, Marshall, Virginia 20116 www.MiddleburgHumane.org
Marshall
– Gracious country living meets modern luxury. OCH territory minutes from Middleburg or Rt 66. 7 BR, 8 full and 2 half-BA. Spectacular views–Ashby Gap to Cobbler Mountain!
Isabella Wolf | 703-338-7452 AQUINNAH 41 acres | $6,150,000
Upperville – Extraordinary 7 BR, 7.5 BA English Manor in prestigious Greystone. 3 level residence boasting over 6,950 sq. ft. Fenced paddock and run-in shed–ideal for equestrians!
Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
BARRON ACRES 16+ acres | $2,480,000
Bluemont – Contemporary all brick residence, in pristine, turn-key condition. Brand new 2 stall barn, pond, and perennial gardens. 3 levels of stunning living space, must be seen to appreciate!
Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
RECTORTOWN RD. .83 acres | $990,000
Marshall – Generous c. 1927 stucco home blends modern amenities with historic charm. 4 BR / 4.5 BA on 3 levels. Mountain views. Updated systems throughout. Generator and high-speed internet. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
CLOVERWOOD 78+ acres | $5,750,000
The Plains – With frontage on Zulla Rd. & Burrland Rd. the estate features an elegant one level main residence, pool, guest house, 2 tenant houses, 2 stables–w/total 26 stalls and a 4 acre pond. John Coles | 540-270-0094
FOXWOOD 35 acres | $3,495,000
Bluemont – Timeless elegance meets modern sophistication, boasting over 5,000 sq. ft. of living space. In addition, over 3,100 sq. ft. of partially finished space all set to be completed.
Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
KITTERY POINT 74 acres | $2,400,000
Berryville – Iconic Blue Ridge Hunt property has sweeping Mountain views. Light-filled brick home offers 5 BRs / 3.5 BAs on three full levels. 10-stall barn, multiple outbuildings.
Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499
LITTLE RIVER TPKE. 2+ acres | $935,000
Aldie – Charming historic home, ca. 1820, with kitchen and baths recently renovated. Move-in ready. Verizon FIOS, 2-car garage, a party barn, a studio/office, gardens and mature landscaping. Rebecca Poston | 540-771-7520
Delaplane – Impressive 7,300 sq. ft. of beautiful living space features high ceilings,
– Renovated
Aldie – This exceptional 5 BR / 5.5 BA Wetherburne-built home has been beautifully updated inside and out, offering country charm and modern conveniences. Privacy and mountain views. Will McCulloch | 540-326-5270 GRAND ELLISON CT.
| $2,325,000 Upperville – Thoughtfully renovated offering the rustic charm of hunt country with the comfort and style of today. Refined and inviting spaces ideal for quiet moments or lively gatherings. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201 HATCHER’S COTTAGE .44 acres | $975,000
Marshall – Stretching from 5 Points Rd in the Plains, to Rectortown and Frogtown Roads in Marshall. Protected by an Easement with the VOF. Prime OCH territory. a most prestigious location!
John Coles | 540-270-0094
WOODMONT 18 acres | $4,295,000
Marshall – Orange County Hunt Territory, completely renovated historic estate with high ceilings, gleaming wood floors & fabulous casement windows. Rear terrace and inground pool. Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
OLD MILL FARM 18+ acres | $2,599,999
Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233
SPRING HOUSE 1+ acres | $1,650,000
Middleburg – Gracious 4 BR / 4 full BA colonial home–c.1914 on 1+ magical acres. Enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views. Property has been updated and meticulously cared for and is move-in ready.
Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
DEERE RIDGE 8+ acres | $950,000
Boyce – A picturesque, private rural setting on a bluff just west of the Shenandoah River, is a great place to hang your hat! This 8.53 acre lot has an additional building right - a rare find in Clarke. Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499
Middleburg – Enjoy a refined lifestyle in a picturesque setting. Updated 4 BR w/ mountain views. 2 stall barn, 4 paddocks, 2 run-in sheds. Ride out w/ permission. Middleburg Hunt territory. Kristin Dillon-Johnson | 703-673-6920
1170 PARKER ST. 3+ acres | $1,195,000
Upperville – Rare village offering in 2 parcels. This beautifully updated brick home offers the best of country living—the additional parcel is your opportunity to build. Within walking distance to town. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
Warrenton – 4 BRs, 3 1/2 BAs. Quiet country setting yet 6 minutes to Warrenton, immaculate condition. Front porch and large covered back porch, 2 car garage. Pets–case by case, no smoking. Rein duPont | 540-454-3355 GREEN MEADOW
$3,600/mo
Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations
Our roots in Horse Country run deep. Since 1967 Thomas & Talbot has participated in the purchase or sale of almost every property in Horse Country and our agents have life long relationships in the community. Finding you the perfect place in Horse Country comes naturally to us—so when you’re ready to put down roots of your own, count on the agents at Thomas & Talbot.
Tri-County Feeds Comes to Middleburg with TCF Loft
Written by Lia Hobel
When Charlottesville residents Isabelle and Andrew Baldwin became the owners of the Tri-County Feeds flagship store in Marshall earlier this year, they already had plans to expose the brand to a greater market. In June, TCF expanded to the heart of Middleburg, taking over the retail space formerly occupied by Highcliffe Clothiers.
“It was such a great space and it just kind of kept speaking to us,” Isabelle recalls from her visits to Middleburg with her husband, Andrew. The storefront at 112 W. Washington Street was the perfect solution to connect the upscale brands carried at the flagship store to a broader audience, she says. “We just have such great brands at the store, and we just kept thinking these would appeal to so many more shoppers than those that get into the Feeds store.”
The curated fashion and lifestyle pieces carried by Tri-County Feeds are perfect for everything from polo matches to brunch dates and fit the Middleburg and Hunt Country clientele. Fair-
Photos by Camden Littleton
| From page 24
fax & Favor, Barbour, Dubarry, and Beretta are among the labels shoppers will find at TCF Loft. “We’re currently working on bringing a lot of new lines as well for that location that will kind of blend more to that market,” Andrew shares.
One of those lines will be the popular equestrian outfitter Rönner. Isabelle says customers can expect to see linen dresses and tops to add some lighter clothing for the summer to complement the outerwear of the many British brands. “We’re trying to find items and products that walk the line of really practical and useful for the true equestrian lifestyle but also beautiful, well crafted, and something that you would like to wear,” Isabelle expands.
She also shares that the Loft will carry a new line called Surrey by Emma Werner, who has become a personal friend. A Stella McCartney alum, Werner designs items that are “beautiful to wear, but also wonderful to ride in,” Isabelle explains.
As someone who has shown horses all her life, Isabelle knows firsthand the importance of proper wear that both looks and feels good. Andrew, as a polo player, understands too. When the opportunity arose to take over from the retiring owners of Tri-County Feeds, the couple felt the business was a natural fit with their personal interests.
“I’ve loved the Tri-County store for years because I would come up to show in Middleburg,” Isabelle says. “When Andrew came to me and was like, we’ve got this opportunity to buy Tri-County Feeds, I was
like, ‘This is insane. Are you kidding me? It’s my favorite store.’”
Philip Miller, a former employee at Highcliffe, will manage the Loft with Megan Burton. “Our new location represents growth, but our mission remains unchanged,” he shares. “As neighbors serving neighbors, we celebrate the equestrian lifestyle not as costume, but as culture. Our customers seek understated luxury that travels from the stable to the city, from competition to cocktails. Stop in to see a familiar face; leave with some inspired, authentic style.”
Andrew adds, “With the flagship store, I think we’re moving more and more toward the true tack shop experience there, expanding our equestrian apparel lines, and making room to have a broader selection of britches, show coats, helmets, boots, and all the stuff you need for your riding. The Middleburg store is a chance for us to really expand the lifestyle offerings.”
In addition to the practical lifestyle wear, Andrew anticipates offering integral accessories that local polo players might need such as a mallet or gloves. “If you’ve got a game down the street at the arena, you have an opportunity to slip in there and grab something,” he notes.
Looking forward, Isabelle says they’re also planning a lot of fun events for the community, including trunk shows and involvement with the Middleburg Film Festival. ML
112 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117
TCF Loft
Top: Home goods, handbags, jewelry, and belts from Fairfax & Favor. Second: A peek inside the new shop. Third: Philip Miller and Megan Burton, the Middleburg managers. Bottom: Socks, loafers, and flasks for a Hunt Country guy. Loft
Frederick Joseph Curran - Age 78
Frederick J. Curran “Freddie” to his friends and family passed away on May 27, 2025 af ter a lovely morning ride on his beloved horse, River. Fred was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. He was the second child and eldest son of Frances Shea and Charles F. Curran. A graduate of Noble and Greenoug h in Dedham, MA, Fred went on to earn a B. A. from Georgetown Universi ty in Washington D.C. and an MBA from Babson College in Wellesley, MA. From an early age, Fred exhi bi ted a unique blend of competi tiveness and calm focus His si blings Gail O'Brien of Osterville, MA, the late William
Callanan of Kensington, MD and the late Charles Ford Curran Sr. of Osterville, MA - remember a brother who was
athletic, driven and always steady in a storm. An enduring love of competi tion and the sea led Fred to a remarkable sailing career.
Having grown up on the water, he became a dedicated crew member of Bill Koch’s renowned Maxi-boat campaign. Over nine years, he sailed aboard Matador and Matador2, competing in three consecutive Southern Ocean Racing Circui ts and prestig ious regattas in Newport, Majorca, Porto Cervo, Monte Carlo, Anti bes, St-Tropez, San Francisco, and Hawaii’s Kenwood Cup. In 1991, af ter years of development and dedication, Fred and his crew aboard Matador2 won the Maxi World Championship. He went on to join the crew of America³, which claimed victor y in the 1992 America’s Cup Fred continued racing on Koch’s vintage 12-meter America’s Cup vessels in Newport, combining athleticism with an appreciation for tradi tion and craf tsmanship
Since 2013, Fred could be found riding to the hunt wi th the Orange County Hounds in Middleburg, Virg inia, galloping alongside his family and friends His love of sport never wavered and the OCH communi ty welcomed him wi th genuine appreciation.
Fred’s greatest joy came from his family. In April 1977, he married the love of his life, Aurora “Sandy” Curran. He is survived by Sandy, his beloved wife of 48 years, his three children, Katherine Isabella Harg is and her husband Hal Harg is of Houston, T X, Alexandria Curran Anderson of Corpus Christi, T X, and Aurora Abigail Curran of Marshall, VA, his three grandchildren, Cameron Kingman Wooster, Aurora Isabella Harg is and Lilliana Catalina Harg is, as well as eleven nieces, seven nephews, and many dear friends.
In lieu of f lowers, please consider a donation in Fred’s honor to one of the following organizations he deeply valued: the OCH Conservation Foundation, the Piedmont Environmental Council, the L and Trust of Virg inia or Seven Loaves Services.
Arrangements by Royston Funeral Home, Marshall, VA.
COCKTAIL CRAWL
Can’t-Miss Summer Sips in Middleburg
Written by Kaitlin Hill
As temperatures continue to rise, July is the perfect time to sample the best cocktails just off Washington Street. From a mint-infused Southside at Mt. Defiance to Lost Barrel’s fruit-forward Summer Fizz, there is something for everyone in Middleburg’s bars inspired by local ingredients, creative culinary skills, and twists on the classics. To experience them all, follow our cocktail crawl and you might just discover your new signature sip for the summer!
The Southside at Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery
495 E. Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
Head around to the back of the barn to grab a Southside cocktail at Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery. Made with the house Gin Nouveau, lime, lemon, simple syrup, and fresh mint, the cocktail is light and refreshing with a punch of citrus flavor. The drink is so popular, guests at Mt. Defiance are likely to see a few of the vibrantly green drinks down the length of the bar.
Jarad’s Gin & Tonic at Tremolo Bar
19 E. Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
When asking for recommendations around town, Jarad’s Gin & Tonic at Tremolo Bar was a frequent suggestion. Described by one patron as “fresh, sharp, light, and refreshing,” Jarad Slipp’s take on a classic G&T is made with gin, tonic, lime, orange, and botanicals. Served in a wine glass, the drink is as generous as it is delicious and the perfect thing to nurse on a warm evening in Middleburg.
The Clark Kent at The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
2 E. Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
Created by James Spencer, Red Fox Inn & Tavern hospitality team member, the Clark Kent is bursting with local summer flavors. A shaken concoction of local gin, fresh strawberry-basil puree, fresh lemon juice, and a little bit of local honey, this pink drink is sweet, herbaceous, and extremely refreshing. Red Fox’s director of food and beverage, Anna Adams, shares that it is the most popular cocktail on the menu right now.
Top: The Southside at Mt. Defiance. Middle: Jarad’s Gin & Tonic at Tremolo. Bottom: The Clark Kent at The Red Fox Inn & Tavern. Photos by Kaitlin Hill
Classic Old-Fashioned at Nomad
14 S. Madison Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
Just steps off of Washington Street, Nomad is serving seriously tasty bourbon in its laid-back bar and expansive patio. The old-fashioned is made with Sazerac rye whiskey and garnished with orange peel and a cherry. While an old-fashioned may not be the first drink that comes to mind for a summer sip, Nomad’s is smooth with the perfect amount of sweetness.
Margaritas at Bluewater Cocina
12 S. Pendleton Street, Middleburg, VA 20117
Follow the smell of sizzling tacos behind Nature Composed to Middleburg’s own little taco bar in a garden. The margaritas at Bluewater Cocina are the perfect ice-cold cocktail to be enjoyed on a hot summer day. The margaritas come in four iterations: classic, fresca, garden jalapeño, and skinny. In the summer, the seasonal fresca is strawberry-flavored with a dollop of strawberry puree on top. Made with in-house strawberry mix, triple sec, and Luna Azul, the fresca margarita packs a punch.
The Summer Fizz Mimosa at Lost Barrel Brewing
36138 Little River Turnpike, Middleburg, VA 20117
Stay on Route 50 just past town for the final cocktail in the crawl, Lost Barrel Brewing’s Summer Fizz Mimosa. A crushable combination of pineapple, lime, orange, watermelon puree, and simple syrup, the Summer Fizz makes the drive worthwhile. Lost Barrel also offers a mocktail version of the Summer Fizz, meaning this summer drink can be enjoyed by all. ML
Top: A classic old-fashioned from Nomad. Middle: The fresca margarita at Bluewater Cocina. Photos by Kaitlin Hill. Bottom: Lost Barrel’s Summer Fizz Mimosa. Photo by Caroline Gray.
NEW IN TOWN: piedMoNt drip & dip Co.
Written by Diane Helentjaris | Photos by Gracie Savage
Though the iconic Scruffy’s Ice Cream Parlor sign is now stored away in the Middleburg Museum, the bulldog valet statue is still on the job at 6 W. Washington Street. He stands patiently, in a ruffled shirt with a “bone-tie” at his neck and a rose in his lapel. He shoulders his tray with the samples of cones — plain, waffle, and sugar. Beginning with its opening on December 3, 1988, for the Middleburg Christmas parade, Scruffy’s played a prominent role in the community for decades. Thousands of ice cream cones, sundaes, and cups of coffee were served to eagerly waiting hands of customers. Tips were donated to local animal welfare efforts.
Scruffy’s April 1 Facebook post this year was no joke. The ice cream and coffee parlor was, indeed, closing. However, the location’s tradition for selling treats continues. Scruffy’s owner Hilleary Bogley has passed the reins to Nikki Shugar. Shugar’s coffee and ice cream shop, Piedmont Drip & Dip Co., opened a few weeks after the announcement of Scruffy’s closure.
Shugar was a natural choice for the shop’s future. Growing up in
tiny Clinton Corners, New York, she’s the daughter of a chef and a pet shop owner. Those threads — animal care and the restaurant industry — weave through her life. For 17 years, she worked in animal control in Culpeper County. Through that job, she met Hilleary Bogley, an animal welfare advocate, founder of the Middleburg Humane Foundation, and owner of Scruffy’s. Shugar also kept her hand in the restaurant business over the years as the owner of Piedmont Steakhouse in Culpeper. A couple of years ago, Shugar moved to Middleburg, which had long been a favorite weekend destination. She purchased the old Fun Shop building, another well-loved local site. When renovations are complete, it will open as the Piedmont Steakhouse Middleburg. She plans to offer ice cream there and is exploring the possibility of “adult” milkshakes flavored with liqueurs. Coffee and ice cream are catnip to Americans. The average American, according to the International Dairy Foods Association, eats roughly 19 pounds of ice cream yearly. And coffee? The National Coffee Association found in a sur-
Dip | Page 31
Top: Piedmont’s signage. Bottom: Coffee offerings cover the “drip” part of the name.
Dip | From page 30
vey this year that two-thirds of American adults drink coffee daily, and those who do average three cups per day.
Though renamed the Piedmont Drip & Dip Co., the small shop under the striped awning has kept to the Scruffy playbook. Bogley spent time this spring sharing her tips, methods, and resources with the shop’s new owner. Shugar has “kept the menu, flavors, and appearance. Hilleary was here for 36 years,” she says. “Don’t fix what’s not broken.” The menu still carries Hershey ice cream in flavors like orange blossom, pistachio, banana pudding, and cookies and cream. Classic hot fudge and ever-popular brownie sundaes bring smiles as they appear through the open service window to waiting customers. A favorite, Shugar shares, combines both coffee and ice cream in an Italian-inspired treat. Affogato al caffè (which translates to “drowned in coffee”)
consists of the ice cream flavor of the customer’s choice with hot espresso poured over it. Donated tips continue to support animal welfare efforts. Folks have been satisfying their ice cream cravings at the little shop for more than three decades. Thanks to restaurateur and animal lover Nikki Shugar, this quintessential Middleburg feature will live on. Whether a person craves a coffee on a misty afternoon or needs a scoop of vanilla on a hot summer day, Piedmont Drip & Dip has them covered.
“People really enjoy ice cream,” Shugar says. “It’s a treat — I do the happy part of it, and [you] can’t go wrong. It’s fun to see the kids. They’re so excited!” ML
6 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117 piedmontdripndip@gmail.com
Piedmont Drip & Dip Co.
Piedmont Drip & Dip Co. maintains the beloved Scruffy’s feel.
Celebrating Our 50th Year!
www.greersconservation.com
www.greersconservation.com
November 8 & 9, 2014 10am-4pm
37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132
www.greersconservation.com
November 8 & 9, 2014 10am-4pm
www.greersconservation.com
540.338.6607 greersant@gmail.com
37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132
37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132 540.338.6607 greersant@gmail.com
www.greersconservation.com
540.338.6607 greersant@gmail.com
Open Monday - Friday 9-4 & Weekends by Appointment Museum Level Conservation and Custom Furniture for 50 years
37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132
Open Monday - Friday 9-4 & Weekends by Appointment Museum Level Conservation and Custom Furniture for 44 years
540.338.6607 greersant@aol.com
37627 Allder School Road Purcellville, VA 20132
Regular hours are by appointment only Open Monday - Friday 9-4 & Weekends by Appointment Museum Level Conservation and Custom Furniture for 44 years
540.338.6607 greersant@aol.com
Regular hours are by appointment only
Kristine ely’s Most Beautiful Place
Written
Moving through an open field with Kristine Ely is almost like touring an art gallery with a curator.
“She would pick up a blade of something and tell me what it was,” Courtney Kockler, Piedmont Equine’s small animal clinic operations director, remembers of an afternoon when she and Ely explored Stepping Stone Farm in Aldie. “She would explain the good, the bad, and the ugly about all the different grasses we have. She taught me which ones were poisonous and which ones were
just a burden. She taught me about mowing, and the importance of timely mowing.”
Ely is a Virginia Tech faculty member and professional animal scientist at the 420-acre Middleburg Agricultural Research Extension (MARE) Center — philanthropist and equine enthusiast Paul Mellon’s 1949 creation. She was born in McHenry, Illinois, a quiet suburban town where her love of horses led to a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Tennessee Tech. Next she pursued a master’s from the University of Ten-
nessee, and finally graduated from Virginia Tech with a Ph.D. in equine nutrition. MARE is one of 11 research stations owned by Virginia Tech and the only one in the Commonwealth devoted to equine research.
Ely recommended Kockler divide her fields into smaller sections to manage the forage growth better. “We spent lots and lots of time running electric [fencing wire],” Kockler recalls.
“Kristine has an amazing ability to make the not-
Ely | Page 35
“Kristine has an amazing ability to make the not-so-fun jobs a good time. I not only learned a lot from her but we had a great time maximizing the nutritional value of the fields.” – Kockler
Kristine Ely and Jack.
by Bill Kent | Photos by Camden Littleton
so-fun jobs a good time. I not only learned a lot from her but we had a great time maximizing the nutritional value of the fields.”
If you ask Ely, it’s not an easy task. “What’s good for the horse is not always good for the pasture, and vice versa,” she explains. “From a distance, a pasture appears to be a peaceful, restful place. Close up, you can see the effects of many variables. A lot is going on, if you care to take a look.”
She adds that “many people with horses have
be addressed and prevented with improved pasture and grazing management, Ely believes. Her work has taken her to agricultural research laboratories throughout the country and even to Europe, Canada, and Panama. For the last eight years, Ely has lived either in the area or on-site at the MARE Center with her blue heeler dog, Jack, and her retired Thoroughbreds, Momo and Blues.
“She’s always considering if the solution could be implemented in a real-world situation. As a scientist, she’s creative, innovative, and willing to work very hard to solve problems.” – Suagee-Bedore
more horses than land to graze them adequately. This is completely understandable; I love horses, and everybody I know loves horses. But when landowners focus more on the horses than the land beneath them, the health of the land — particularly the soil — can suffer. That can cause long-term issues that are much harder to fix.”
Many problems for horses, ranging from obesity to parasites to nutrition-related illnesses, can
“Dr. Ely is a down-to-earth person. She’s easy to talk to and understands real horse people, because she is one!” says her colleague, Dr. Jessica Suagee-Bedore, a fellow equine nutritionist and associate professor of practice at the Virginia Tech School of Animal Sciences.
“She’s always considering if the solution could be implemented in a real-world situation. As a scientist, she’s creative, innovative, and willing to work very hard to solve problems.”
Among those problems is the inevitable tendency for underexercised horses to put on weight. In April at the MARE Center, Ely hosted an equine field day, showcasing a new grazing system that encourages horses’ appetites to move them along a track as they feed.
Kim Reid, equine director of the Rapidan Equine Sanctuary in Fredericksburg, was in attendance that day. Ely compared the pasture track to a more typical rotational pasture beside it. Reid says she was sufficiently “inspired by the background behind the track system to give it a try, because we care about the sustainability of our land and the mental and physical well-being of our herds.” She continues, “Our minis have a small field, so it was most cost effective for us to try it there first.”
Within weeks, the minis had, beneficially, lost weight. “Before we implemented the track, they spent a lot of time just standing around in one spot,” Reid says. “Since creating the track, we’ve Ely | Page 36
Top: Horses enjoy a pasture at the MARE Center in Middleburg. Bottom left: A MARE horse. Bottom right: The MARE Center.
Ely | From page 35
seen a noticeable increase in their movement and activity — they are on the go more often. One moment they’re at one end drinking water, and just 10 minutes later, they’ve made their way to the opposite side to lick at the mineral block. Five minutes later, they are at a hay station… Overall, they seem healthier, more settled, and content in their environment.”
Other MARE Center projects that Ely is involved in include:
• A study on delayed hay harvest that will determine the best timing to cut for the highest
nutritional content. This work also supports efforts to increase grassland bird nesting habitat.
• Introducing new foraging plants for pasture use.
• Tracking the composting qualities of different kinds of stable bedding.
• Finding ideal spacing of hay bales in winter so that cattle will move from bale to bale and distribute their manure more evenly, thus aiding pasture replenishment in the spring.
students to visiting Hunt Country agriculture professionals, writing grant proposals, running her own research projects, doing lectures and demonstrations, caring for the horses and cleaning stalls, and making sure that the buildings and horses are secure when a storm is on the horizon. When she has time, she also consults with Hunt Country farms.
Former Nordstrom fashion director and current DJ Heather Femia invited Ely to Bella Terra, her new farm off Unison Road, because “Kristine has a specialized knowledge base rooted in agriculture. She was friendly and very responsive, making my task of learning a whole new subject
had a treed ditch that was hard to maintain and would likely be dangerous for the horses. We considered removing the trees and ditch all together.” Ultimately, “Kristine advocated to keep the trees, so we did some site work, removed the dangerous slope, but kept lots of the trees for shade and air-filtering properties.”
Then Ely tested the soil in the farm’s fields. “We added gravel to our gate areas. We were mindful to put water where it would inspire walking and not compound already heavy traffic areas,” Femia notes. “All of these items Kristine spoke to us about. Kristine also reviewed the grain we used for our three horses with different needs. She
“I think when you imagine your animals thriving because of the land, you see and appreciate the land in a new light.” – Femia
“Most of these studies are the result of years of research,” Ely says. “What excites me is how important this is to understanding the relationship between the land and the health of grazing animals. People don’t know that this is the largest pasture-based equine agricultural research laboratory of its kind in the country, and I’m very proud to be a part of it.”
During spring and fall, Ely works seven days a week at the MARE Center, doing everything from supervising as many as a dozen graduate
seem less daunting,” Femia explains. “I think when you imagine your animals thriving because of the land, you see and appreciate the land in a new light.”
They went on a walk and Ely identified the plants and trees unsuitable for horses. She “gave me advice on improving the quality of the forage and managing the land so it stays green and healthy as much as possible,” Femia says. “We
importantly advised me to switch one of my horses to a balancer to ensure she gets key nutrients and maintains a balanced diet. My little quarter horse is looking great these days after watching the calories.”
Ely’s greatest skill? “She’s a good listener,” Femia shares.
On a rare day off, Ely will go riding or visit a winery with Kockler. When her mother, “a super Patsy Cline fan,” visited, they toured the Patsy Cline house in Winchester. She expects to marry soon and start a family. Until then, Ely tries to visit the same place every day. It’s at the top of what is called Hill 4, a small rise within the MARE Center landscape.
“Some years back, I was with Jack and I was checking the foraging grasses we had introduced here when I looked around,” she remembers. She sat in her Kubota ATV with her dog, Jack, and watched grasses move gently in the spring breeze. She could hear a faint rustling as the wind touched the seed heads. “I realized I was in the most beautiful, wonderful place — my little piece of heaven.” ML
Ely in her most beautiful place.
Bring a Charles Cary Rumsey Bronze Home
The Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America is hosting an exhibit of bronze sculptures honoring Charles Cary Rumsey, an American sculptor and renowned horseman. The exhibition opened on May 24, 2025, coinciding with the museum’s 40th anniversary, and will run until the end of July.
Rumsey’s works have been celebrated and shown all over the world, from Paris to Spain to Brooklyn. They portray riders, warriors, buffalo, and various other animals. Now, Hunt Country residents and visitors will have the chance to take a piece of Rumsey’s work home with them, as these sculptures are for sale in the Middleburg and Leesburg museum locations.
“Presenting Charles Cary Rumsey’s bronzes at the Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America is a gift of timeless artistry and tradition, where each graceful curve and powerful form immortalizes the spirit of the hunt and the wild,”
Written by Emerson Leger | Photo by Callie Broaddus
Katrina Ryan, director of operations, says. “From horse, hound, and rider to puma, ram, and the human figure, these bronzes celebrate nature and movement in all its forms.”
These sculptures capture the essence of equestrian culture, showcasing the athleticism and talent it takes to be a horse rider or polo player. The
sculptures of animals distinguished Rumsey from his contemporaries. The naturalism achieved by the details of the animal, whether horse or buffalo, combined with the rider’s pose create a beautiful sense of movement and stability. They are the perfect adornment for any Hunt Country home.
“By making these works accessible to all at both our museums in Virginia, we invite the public to witness the energy, elegance, and soul of these creatures and characters, forever preserved in bronze,” Ryan says. ML
Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America
- Morven Park
17195 Southern Planter Lane Leesburg, VA 20176
Museum of Hounds & Hunting North America
- Duffey House
11 W. Washington Street Middleburg, VA 20117
“Andirons” by Charles Cary Rumsey.
CUSTOM HATS COURTESY OF HATPIN BY ANGIE
Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Caroline Gray
To build a business and watch it thrive is certainly a “feather in the cap” life experience. For Angie Ritterpusch, owner of Hatpin by Angie, along with literally putting feathers in caps, her custom hat bar pop-up is an obvious source of pride in her life. “It energizes me so much. It feeds my soul. I love it and it makes me happy,” she says.
A native of The Plains, the now Leesburg-based event planner was inspired to open a pop-up hat bar after a girls’ trip to Nashville in January 2023. She remembers, “My three best friends — we went to Fauquier High School together — one of their daughters, Madison, was turning 21 and wanted to go to Nashville. She kept saying, ‘All I want to do, Aunt Angie, is go to a hat bar.’”
She continues, “I was blown away. The hats were $450 and that didn’t even include a ribbon, a feather, a brand — nothing!”
Though Ritterpusch opted to get her niece a more practical birthday gift, she says, “I just kept thinking about it and decided, we’re going to have a little Mother’s Day thing and I’ll create hats for the girls.”
What started as a Mother’s Day craft would blossom into a second career of sorts for Ritterpusch. In 2023, she decided to make the leap. She explains, “My kids are grown and flown, so that finds me in a different era of my life… I’m going to invest $1,000 into this and see where it goes.” She launched Hatpin by Angie in March 2023.
Ritterpusch partnered with local businesses to make Hatpin a household name in Hunt Country. After an initial pop-up with Brick & Mortar, Ritterpusch connected with Natalie Femia of Lost Barrel Brewing and developed a friendship. The professional popup opportunity would go on to put Hatpin on the map.
“Natalie and I forged this amazing friendship and she just started tapping me for events.” She adds, “When I was asked by the Leesburg Boot Barn to be the official hat bar [at its] grand opening, Natalie came and supported me. Natalie and the whole staff at Lost Barrel have been instrumental in helping my business flourish.”
For those unfamiliar with the concept of a hat bar or who have yet to swing by Lost Barrel and see Ritterpusch’s pop-up in action, she describes the business as “Build-A-Bear Workshop for hats.” The first step is to “pick your hat, and we try on all different styles that I have, and then we start to put it together.”
Putting it together means adding various accoutrements to make the hat a personal piece of art. Ritterpusch has ribbons, vintage pins, leather flowers, feathers, and even the ability to brand the hats.
“The options are endless,” she says, “and this is where my creativity really comes into play.”
As for where she sources her materials, the answer is all over the world. “I have a really good selection,” she says, referencing a trip to London as one source of inventory. “My daughter and I went to London for the Taylor Swift concert and we stayed a few days extra because I knew there was a vintage shop with costume jewelry. All the jewelry was from the ’40s. I stocked up so much while I was there.”
Hats | Page 39
Angie Ritterpusch at Lost Barrel Brewing.
| From page 38
She even makes some of the embellishments herself. “The leather flowers, I hand-carve all those.” She adds with a laugh, “I tell my customers it’s like my therapy. I love everything creative. It’s an outlet for me.”
Now, two years in, a weekend off is an oddity and she’s been invited to showcase at many head-
liner events like Art in the Burg, Middleburg’s Oktoberfest, Greenhill Vineyards’ Christmas Market, and more recently, Loudoun Therapeutic Riding’s gala and the Culpeper Rodeo gala.
Looking ahead to the next two or 20 years, Ritterpusch says, “I am letting Hatpin flourish the way it is supposed to flourish. I am a big believer in ‘everything happens for a reason.’” As for taking it full time, “If it grew into that, I would lean
into it and go where I’m supposed to go with it.” For now, those on the hunt for the perfect hat can likely find Ritterpusch at Lost Barrel or one of the many other local venues where her popup pops up. She says, “You’ll always find me in a hat with one of my leather flowers on it and a playing card that says ‘Spicy Situation.’” Why that card? “I’m a redhead and I’m fiery. Plus, it always inspires conversation.” ML
Clothing for those in need
Left: A selection of hats to choose from. Second: Ritterpusch’s handcrafted leather flowers. Third: Vintage pins. Right: Feathers to put in your cap.
Hats
Our Favorite Local Gifts for Getting Outside
Photos by Callie Broaddus
Three-Piece BBQ Set, $41, Available at HESTIA [ the collection ]
Hot House Sticks, 50-pack for $70, 25-pack for $35, Available at Nature Composed
Covington Leather Carryall Bag, $495, Available at Tom Beckbe
Decorative Outdoor Faucet Handle, $44, Available at The Bittersweet Garden Pocket Swing, $28, Available at The PLAYroom
WeeFarers, $35, Available at Posh Pixies
Personalized All-Weather Cornhole Boards, $285 - $795, Available at Chloe’s of Middleburg
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
GATHERING SPRINGS FARM STORE GRAND OPENING
July 11 | 3 p.m. | gatheringspringsfarm.com
Help Gathering Springs Farm celebrate the opening of its new farm store! Visitors to the shop will find fresh vegetables, eggs from the farm’s 200 free-range laying hens, dried herbs, soaps, and small-batch fermented vegetables. A curated selection of goods from local farms and artisans will include breads and cheeses, handmade crafts, pantry staples, and frozen pasture-raised meat.
VINTAGE MARKET AT LOST BARREL BREWING
July 12 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | lostbarrel.com
Enjoy a day of vintage shopping, music, festive beverages, and delicious food at Lost Barrel Brewing. In addition to the vintage vendors, there will be a permanent jewelry and charm bar, hat bar, candles, and glitter strand purveyors on-
site. This is a free event and all are welcome!
FRIDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS AT OLD FARM WINERY AT HARTLAND
July 18 | 7 to 8 p.m. | oldfarmwineryhartland.com
Experience a special tasting of white blends during a guided tasting led by an Old Farm Winery winemaker. The event will take place in the Pavilion. Tickets are $55 per person and include a tasting of six wines, a tasting passport, and light bites. Admission can be booked through Old Farm’s website.
THE MOTORTOWN ALL-STARS AT THE SHENANDOAH MUSIC FESTIVAL
July 18 | 8 p.m. | musicfest.org
Running through the end of August, the Shenandoah Music Festival’s kickoff performance is not to be missed. On July 18, enjoy the musical stylings of The Motortown All-Stars. Concertgoers
will experience incredible harmonies, impressive choreography, and the timeless Motown classics of The Temptations, The Miracles, The Four Tops, Marvin Gay, and Stevie Wonder. Tickets start at $68.
GONZO’S NOSE AT TARARA WINERY
July 19 | 6 to 9:30 p.m. | tararaconcerts.com
Don’t miss D.C.’s most popular party band performing a reunion show at Tarara Winery. Considered one of the most exciting cover bands in the area, Gonzo’s Nose will perform an impressive playlist of classic rock, 2000s pop punk, Top 40 hits, and dance floor favorites. Tickets start at $13.36 and can be purchased through Eventbrite.
NIGHT MARKET AT OLD BUST HEAD
July 19 | 6 to 10 p.m. | oldbusthead.com
Shop local, handmade crafts under the stars
Calendar | Page 43
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Calendar | From page 42
at Old Bust Head Brewing Co.’s annual night market. Confirmed vendors include: A Tired Dreamer, Earth Energy Alchemist, RS Wooden Creations, Luvelle Rose LLC, Beads by Becka, Studio Luxe, Sweet Delights by Farmstead, AR Workshop, Black Dog Oddities, Wooden Shoe Bakery, Sweet Dove Crochet, and many more! Rolling Wraps food trucks will be on-site, too.
GAME NIGHT AT CHRYSALIS VINEYARDS
July 24 | 4 to 6 p.m. | chrysaliswine.com
In partnership with the Middleburg Library, Chrysalis Vineyards is hosting a game night. Participants are invited to enjoy a glass of wine while playing classic and modern board games and card games while making friends and memories. No reservations are required, but guests must be 21 or older.
OPEN LATE 2025: FAST EDDIE & THE SLOWPOKES AT NSLM
July 25 | 6 to 8 p.m. | nationalsporting.org
Bring your chairs or blanket and enjoy a free concert by Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes on the lawn. The concert and museum admission are free and open to the public from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests are welcome to picnic, but no glass containers or outside alcohol is permitted. Concessions will be available and there is free parking on-site. This event is pet-friendly as long as they are leashed. For more information, call (540) 687-6542, extension 26.
SUMMERTIME TEA AT OATLANDS
July 27 | 11:30 a.m. | oatlands.org
Hillary Coley, owner of Dominion Tea in Purcellville, will host a special tea at Oatlands. During the event, participants will learn about the history and art of tea blending while sampling Mint Julep, a fun summer tea blended exclusively for Oatlands. Reservations are required
and can be made on Oatlands’ website.
THE HERITAGE AREA IN THE AMERICAN WAR FOR INDEPENDENCE
July 30 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. | piedmontheritage.org
Join the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area for an evening of living history at its headquarters in Atoka, Virginia. The evening will cover the stories of the experiences of camp life, battles far from home, prisoners of war in the community, and more. Participants will have the opportunity to chat with period-attired historians and explore the Revolution through the eyes of the local community as it was 250 years ago. Beer and wine will be available for guests over the age of 21, and other refreshments will be provided as well. Tickets are $40 for adults. Children under 18 enter for free.
For more Hunt Country events, visit MiddleburgLife.com or scan here:
