from throughout | | 6 kitchen | cottage lighted stream, acres
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
MacMahon 703.609.1905
SALEM HILL
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
MacMahon 540.454.1930
Circa
203 acres in River frontage 4 full & 3 1/2 Gunnite pool and private | 5 stall Jim paddocks, pasture | Old d alix Plains | recently
$3,690,000
WILLOW RUN
MARSHALL, VIRGINIA
$2,850,000
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,
WILSON MEADOWS LANE
MAPLE CREEK
PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media, LLC
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Kaitlin Hill | kaitlin@middleburglife.com
COPY EDITOR & DIGITAL ASSISTANT: Susan Stark
INTERNS
William Anderson
Therese Heisler
Emerson Leger
ADVERTISING SALES
Jamie Null | jamie@middleburglife.com
Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com
Andrea Ryder | andrea@middleburglife.com
ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR
Joanne Maisano
DESIGNER
Elisa Hernandez
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Nicky Marshok
ON THE COVER
Middleburg Life interns Therese Heisler and Emerson Leger experienced a day of fishing with Goodstone Inn’s activity coordinator, Jack Hardman. We caught Heisler fixing her line just before casting off. To read more about the river excursions with the inn, turn to page 6. Photo by Sherri Holdridge.
ON THIS PAGE
The iconic Upperville Colt & Horse Show lemonade stand is a sure sign of summer. If you missed the action this year, read Shayda Windle’s recap of the event on page 14 and see Caroline Gray’s photo gallery on page 18 for everything Upperville. Photo by Caroline Gray.
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All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Boyce, Centreville, Delaplane, Front Royal, Great Falls, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, Purcellville, The Plains, Rectortown, Tysons, Upperville, Vint Hill, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.
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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
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.”
Sarah Hickner is the author of the award-winning Christian memoir “Finding Gideon” and the novel “All the Things That Come Between Us.” A lifelong equestrian and storyteller, she writes about faith, family, and the beauty of life in Virginia horse country.
Sherri Holdridge is a freelance photographer based in the D.C. area. An avid equestrian, she finds herself drawn and connected to the world of equine photography. Though she spends a lot of time with the horses, her portfolio also reflects her love of travel, nature, and portraiture. Sherri’s photography has been published in various magazines and exhibited in galleries around the world. Her work reflects both her passion and commitment to storytelling through the camera lens. More of her work can be found at sherriholdridgephotography.com.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Also in this issue: Tony Gibson, Nancy Kleck, and Camden Littleton.
CATCHING GOOD TIMES: Fishing Excursions at Goodstone Inn
Written by William Anderson | Photos by Sherri Holdridge
Jack Hardman, a Clarke County native, was kayaking down Goose Creek with a group of fishermen on a warm spring day. As they pulled off near a deep pool created by a large rock, a rustling in the bushes alerted the group to the presence of a deer. The deer sprang down the bank and splashed across the creek, disappearing into the woods on the opposite bank. “It felt like a scene out of a movie,” Hardman says. Everyone dropped what they were doing to watch the deer.
It’s moments like this that make fishing special for Hardman, who, as the activities coordinator, has been leading fishing excursions at Goodstone Inn for over a year. The Goodstone property covers 1.5 miles of Goose Creek as well as its own
privately stocked pond. “I have fished Goose Creek over a hundred times now,” Hardman says.
Goodstone accommodates all skill levels on its catch-and-release fishing excursions. “We are more than happy to spend the first 10 to 20 minutes teaching you how to cast,” Hardman says. He tailors the outing to the group’s desires. If the group simply wants to catch a fish, Hardman knows all the spots where little bluegill are abundant. However, those more experienced at fishing may want the challenge of finding an elusive rainbow or brown trout. Given Hardman’s extensive
experience, he is able to expertly guide groups through the waterways wherever adventure is calling. “Introducing people who are not avid fishermen, watching the natural smile that comes across their face when they’re doing something that they didn’t think they were capable of doing, is probably my favorite part,” he shares. Hardman grew up fishing with his father and
Fishing | Page 8
“I have fished Goose Creek over a hundred times now.” – Hardman
Left: Therese Heisler and Jack Hardman prepare their reels. Right: Emerson Leger and Hardman by the pond. Right page: Hardman casting his line near Goose Creek Bridge.
“Introducing people who are not avid fishermen, watching the natural smile that comes across their face when they’re doing something that they didn’t think they were capable of doing, is probably my favorite part.” – Hardman
Fishing | From page 6
uncle on the Eastern Shore, and he still enjoys fishing with his family. “It’s just the way that I find peace, and I like to relax out in nature,” he says. “Goose Creek definitely provides those wonderful scenic surroundings for us to enjoy.”
For him, it’s not just about catching a fish; it’s about enjoying the outdoors, and one of his favorite parts is the wildlife. “Every time you go down there, you see something different. You see something beautiful.” He believes the experience is therapeutic. “Being out there in nature, taking the pace out of life, slowing down a little bit, becoming one with your surroundings, and recognizing what’s going on — that is the really special part,” he explains.
Goodstone provides standard spinning reels, but participants who bring their own equipment will also find Hardman a capable fly fisherman. He enjoys both styles of fishing, but prefers fly-fishing when he wants a challenge. Fly-fishing
is more active; anglers have to get into a rhythm and be careful with their fly.
“Every time you go down there, you see something different. You see something beautiful.” – Hardman
Anyone who fishes with Goodstone can expect much more than just a day on the pond. “Just being out there and listening to the nature, listening to the whistling trees, the wind coming through, listening to the birds that are chirping, and just observing, is really the most special part about the experience,” Hardman says. ML
Hannah Jones Photography
Left: Patience paid off and the group caught a fish. Top right: The pond trail. Bottom right: A close-up of Hardman’s equipment.
THE YMCA OFFERS PROGRAMMING & POOL MANAGEMENT IN MIDDLEBURG
Written by Kaitlin Hill
Pam Curran, the president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington and a Middleburg Town Council member, is in the business of being community-minded.
“I moved to Middleburg six years ago,” Curran shares. “And like everyone else who lives here, I have come to appreciate it as such a special community.” She adds, “The longer I lived here, I realized there were opportunities where The Y could connect but I hadn’t taken action on it.”
A conversation with The PLAYroom owner
Michelle McNaughton helped spur Curran into motion. “We started talking and she said she would really love it if I was able to do some things in Middleburg for children.”
The duo agreed that beyond babysitting, the parents in town wanted programming. “Michelle opened the door for me at the charter school and [The Y] ran before and after care.”
She expands, “We continued to strength -
en our relationship to the community, and this year we got the opportunity to offer camp and run the pool.”
The summer camps, which are designed for children aged 5 to 12, take place at the Middleburg Community Charter School and include a variety of themes. Weeks 1 and 2, which were in June, covered space exploration and soccer skills, where kids designed their own rockets and then took the pitch to participate in World Cup-style tournaments.
YMCA | Page 11
“I moved to Middleburg six years ago. And like everyone else who lives here, I have come to appreciate it as such a special community.”
– Curran
The Middleburg Community Charter School. Photo courtesy of the Middleburg Community Charter School.
“It was very important to the Community Center that we maintain that small communitybased pool, that neighborhood pool feeling.”
– Curran
The fun continues this month with weeks 3 through 6 and activities in art, basketball, and the scientific method. Curran says, “We have some things that are very innovative — related to robotics, STEM, and creating different things.” She adds, “Parents do want to see their children outside playing, so in all of our camps, we incorporate time where the kids are outside having a great time and learning values in a safe environment so that they can grow.”
For older kids, there is a counselor-in-training program, and in the future Curran would like
to add a civics camp “where kids can learn how to create bills and work in government,” she explains.
The YMCA is also managing the Community Center pool this season. “It was very important to the Community Center that we maintain that small community-based pool, that neighborhood pool feeling,” she says. But for Curran, safety was top of mind, “At the same time, it only takes a second for a child to lose their life in the water when people don’t pay attention. So, what we’ve done is brought the YMCA standards for lifeguarding, the Red Cross standards, to Middleburg, and at
the same time maintained a very friendly environment.”
She finishes, “It’s safe, it’s clean, and it’s a really positive environment for everyone.”
Going forward, Curran hopes to expand the adult aquatic offerings by adding water aerobics to the calendar. “The next step … is preventative health classes that can help Middleburg just continue to be a stronger community overall.” She’s even brainstormed with Police Chief Shaun Jones on offering mentoring and tutoring programs. “It all depends on what the community wants.” ML
YMCA | From page 10
Leah Jenkins jumps into the Middleburg Community Center Pool. Photo by Gracie Savage.
The 173rd Upperville Colt & Horse Show, presented by MARS Equestrian™, delivered everything equestrians have come to expect from America’s oldest horse show: top-level competition, tributes to legendary horses, and a glimpse into the future of the sport.
Perhaps no moment captured the spirit of the week better than the debut of the $25,000 Thoroughbred Hunter Derby, a class that drew an extraordinary 57 entries and packed the grandstand with enthusiastic spectators.
Hayley Alcock, director of operations at UCHS, says, “The Derby on Tuesday brought the community out in full force. It was incredible to see people travel from so far away to be part of the inaugural event. Competitors came from as far as New York and Kentucky. The community is
such a huge part of what makes this show special, from our loyal supporters to the sponsors who help make it all possible. The excitement and energy surrounding the Derby carried through the entire week.”
Sue Lyman, who rode her own Kensington Court to victory in the inaugural class, echoes that enthusiasm. “So many people have wanted to see the Thoroughbred come back to the forefront of the show world, and this class made that possible,” she says.
Lyman and Kensington Court delivered a seamless performance to earn a final score of 173.5 and become the first champions in the class’s history. The win came against a field that included many of the nation’s top Thoroughbred show horses.
“We only won by half a point, which made it very exciting,” Lyman explains. “My goal was simply for my horses to go well and for the class to be competitive. The horse that finished second was the USEF Thoroughbred Horse of the Year last
year, and the horse that finished third was the USHJA High Score Thoroughbred in the 2025 Green Incentive program. We were in very good company.”
The overwhelming response from competitors and spectators drew attention to the significance of the class. “Owners, riders, trainers, and Thoroughbred lovers have thanked me for helping get this class started, some with tears in their eyes,” Lyman shares.
Lyman expects the Derby to become a permanent fixture at UCHS. “Upperville has supported Thoroughbreds for more than 20 years,” she says.
“When this class was proposed, everyone felt it would be a great addition to both the show and the local community. The success of the class proved that.”
The class also reinforced Upperville’s ability to blend prestige with purpose, as spectators learned the racing histories of horses making successful transitions from the racetrack to the show ring.
For many involved, the Derby represented something larger than a single competition; it offered new opportunities for riders, trainers, and owners while shining a spotlight on Thoroughbred aftercare and second careers. “This event helps the horses, the people, and the industry,” Lyman says.
Colt | Page 15
Top: Sue Lyman. Photo by Isabel Kurek. Bottom: Dr. Betsee Parker with Joe Fargis and Elation. Photo by Joanne Maisano.
While the Derby generated much of the week’s buzz, excellence across the hunter divisions remained a defining feature of the show. Another familiar name dominated the standings throughout the week: Dr. Betsee Parker.
Parker’s California Love, ridden by leading hunter rider Scott Stewart, won five of six High Performance Hunter classes to earn the division championship and the coveted Grand Champion Hunter title, awarded to the horse accumulating the most points across the professional hunter divisions.
For Parker, a longtime supporter of Upperville and one of the sport’s most successful owners, the achievement never loses its excitement.
“Winning is always a huge honor,” she says. “While this horse has enjoyed success here and at other shows, it’s still a brand-new thrill every
time. With horses, you can’t presume anything. I never know what might transpire in the ring, and I always feel fortunate and grateful when we win.”
The horse also shares a close partnership with Stewart, who was named the Leading Hunter Rider at this year’s show.
Parker’s success extended beyond the High Performance Hunter division. Her young mare Rosewood left with the Green Conformation Hunter Championship, a division designed to showcase talented young hunters in the early stages of their careers.
Rosewood’s championship followed an unusual moment at the Devon Horse Show, where a pigeon struck the mare on the head during competition. “The judges were shocked and nobody knew what to do,” Parker recalls.
Despite the distraction, the mare maintained her composure and went on to earn the Reserve Championship. “When you’ve got a great mare, you’ve got gold,” Parker advises.
Another emotional moment came when Parker’s beloved Welsh pony, Elation, was honored with induction into Upperville’s Wall of Honor. Now nearly 27 years old, Elation has carried numerous junior riders to success throughout her career and remains every bit the show pony.
As she entered the ring for the ceremony, the veteran pony seemed to recognize the occasion. “She suddenly got very excited,” Parker says. “She raised her head, picked up her step, and then stopped and posed for the cameras.”
A former board member and vice president, Parker credits the volunteers, staff, and Stewart — who has ridden her horses for more than two decades — for helping make the Upperville show special.
also served as a reminder of the broader efforts underway to strengthen Virginia’s equine industry. That conversation gained additional relevance with the Virginia Horse Industry Board’s recent announcement of $1.25 million in 2027 grant funding to support industry growth, education, and workforce development.
International competition provided another spotlight at UCHS as Ireland’s Philip McGuane and Crislin van den Bosrand Z captured the $62,500 FEI CSI 4* Upperville Welcome Stakes, edging Virginia rider Sloane Coles and Ninja JW van de Moerhoeve by less than one-hundredth of a second. Daniel Bluman and Hummer Z finished third.
The week’s international competition culminated with the prestigious $200,000 FEI CSI 4* Upperville Jumper Classic, sponsored by Lugano Diamonds and Ethel M. Chocolates. As one of
the most anticipated events of the week, the class drew a large crowd to watch Bluman and Hummer Z return to the winner’s circle with the victory. Chloe Reid and Crossover 4 finished second, followed by local favorite Sloane Coles aboard Ninja JW van de Moerhoeve in third.
LOOKING AHEAD
While Upperville celebrated championship performances and honored the sport’s traditions, it
From the debut of a record-setting Thoroughbred Hunter Derby to tributes honoring equine legends, championship hunter performances, and world-class international competition, the 173rd Upperville Colt & Horse Show presented by MARS Equestrian™ once again demonstrated why it remains one of the most celebrated and enduring events in American equestrian sport. ML
Colt | From page 14
Top: Philip McGuane and Crislin van den Bosra Z during the Welcome Stakes. Middle: Daniel Bluman and Hummer Z. Bottom: Sloane Coles and Ninja JW van de Moerhoeve. Photos by Joanne Maisano.
BUILDING MEMORIES
The 173rd Upperville ColT & horse show
June 1 - 7, 2026
Photos by Caroline Gray
Hunt Country Celebrations for America’s 250th
Written
This Fourth of July marks 250 years since our country declared independence.
Many different celebrations and events are taking place in Virginia, a place that greatly influenced the revolution and our country. From honoring our cherished flag and festive firework displays to acknowledging all those who helped build our country, Hunt Country has something for everyone this year.
ART OF THE FLAG
Artist Matt Pavone will host a discussion on
July 4 at the Artists in Middleburg gallery. During the all-day event, he will lead a discussion while painting a flag called the Grand Union, the first flag that the Continental Congress established as a precursor to the Declaration of Independence.
Pavone says that his admiration of the American flag goes back to his childhood in New Jersey, home to many World War II veterans.
When asked what he hopes attendees will experience, he says, “I’m hoping they can come out of it with a renewed sense of understanding of maybe how they identify with not just the sym-
bol of the flag, but how they identify with themselves.”
FOURTH OF JULY AT GREAT MEADOW
Celebrate this milestone birthday with a regular favorite. The Fourth of July celebration at Great Meadow offers tons of fun activities perfect for the whole family. This big community festival opens at 4 p.m. and lasts until the last firework
Celebrate | Page 21
by Emerson Leger | Photo by Tony Gibson
The fireworks at Great Meadow.
Celebrate | From page 20
pops, around 10 p.m.
Over 30 local vendors will be there, including those selling ice cream and a variety of cuisines for any type of craving. There will also be a petting zoo, inflatable bouncy houses, sports activities, pony rides, face painting, and live music. Mike Parker, an “American Idol” contestant from Warrenton, will be featured.
“Since it’s a big year, the 250th, we are bringing back the drone show,” shares marketing specialist Veronika Zubo. Race on down to Great Meadow with friends and families to enjoy all that’s offered.
PATRIOTIC ART AT NSLM
To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, the National Sporting Library & Museum will showcase Hunt Country’s most cherished traditions in two exhibits.
The first, “America 250: Sports at the Founding,” will highlight popular country sports from the early years of our country’s establishment. On display will be artwork detailing racing, foxhunting, angling, and more. It will run until January 10, 2027.
The second exhibit, titled “Pursuits of Independence and the Natural World,” will run until December 6, 2026. It will explore how early generations understood nature and the great divide over land between America and Great Britain.
GIVING BACK
Birthdays are all about giving gifts, and what is a better gift than giving back to those in need. The Loudoun VA250 Committee is conducting the Breadbasket of the Revolution food drive. The event, which started in June, will run until July 4.
All items donated will benefit Loudoun Hunger Relief. Their goal is to collect 1,776 pounds of food, in honor of the year America declared independence. Donations will be accepted at six sites: the Loudoun Museum, Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum, Oatlands Historic House & Gardens, Waterford Foundation, Dodona Manor, and Morven Park.
Carrie Christoffersen, executive director of the Loudoun Museum, says she suggested it to the committee and everyone was on board. This is the organization’s first food drive.
“We think about food drives around Thanksgiving, around the winter holidays, and less often in the summer,” she says. “It’s great to have something that is happening at a different time of year.”
“LIFE, LIBERTY, AND LOUDOUN” AT THE LOUDOUN MUSEUM
The Loudoun Museum is hosting a “Life, Liberty, and Loudoun” exhibit. It will explore different perspectives of those residing in Loudoun County during the American Revolution. Loudoun County during that time was home to diverse groups, from states-
men to farmers, women, enslaved and free Black people, and soldiers. This collective of stories is free to the public and will be open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For those interested in more revolutionary stories of the county during that era, check out what else the museum is hosting on its website, loudounmuseum. org
SEEING OUR HUMANITY AT OATLANDS
On July 25 from 1 to 4 p.m., join Oatlands for an event called Seeing our Humanity. In Virginia, there are four National Trust Historic Sites that served as sites of enslavement, Oatlands being one of them. This event will recognize the descendants from those who were enslaved in honor of America’s historic birthday and those who helped build this country.
Dr. Margaret Salazar-Porzio, executive director at Oatlands, says this event will explore the full American story. It will bring together both descendants and scholars, and community members, to learn and reflect, including Academy Award-nominated actor and humanitarian Djimon Hounsou.
“My hope is that visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the resilience and humanity of those who came before us, a greater understanding of how the past continues to shape the present, and a renewed sense of the ideals of liberty and justice that continue to unite us as Americans,” Salazar-Porzio says. ML
LIMESTONE FARM 67 acres | $6,695,000
Boyce – Federal style manor house refinished, updated and expanded. Guest house, restored bank barn, and Opequon Creek complete an estate designed for fine living and equestrian pursuits. John Coles | 540-270-0094
HEARTLAND 122+ acres | $4,950,000
Delaplane – Impressive 7,300 sq. ft. of beautiful living space features high ceilings, large windows, and spectacular views. 2 Barns, 100 x 200 arena, Piedmont Hunt territory. Rolling hills w/ miles of trails. John Coles | 540-270-0094
Elegant
and
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Will Driskill | 540-454-7522 DIME BOX 12+ acres |
CHARTWELL 24+ acres | $2,295,000
Marshall – In Bellevue Farms, w/ 30+ miles of trails. Custom 7,700+ sq. ft. stone 5 BR / 5.5 BA house with great views! 1 BR / 1 BA guest house, horse barn w/ barn apt, ring, paddocks & pond. In 2 parcels.
Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
AFFIRMED PARK CT. 3+ acres | $2,845,000
Middleburg – Skip the wait! Custom luxury, now. A move-in ready, 6,000+ sq ft French transitional masterpiece in exclusive Banbury Cross Reserve. Extensive upgrades and custom features. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
THOMAS AVE. 3+ acres | $2,250,000
Great Falls – Fully renovated Colonial. Resort-style saltwater pool, spa, gourmet kitchen, stunning finishes throughout. Private with room to expand. Featured in Home & Design magazine. Natascha Folens | 571-259-3003
Middleburg – Updated home featuring formal living & dining rooms, two fireplaces, a light-filled kitchen, 4 BRs, newly remodeled primary suite w/ 2 BAs. New HVAC. Professionally landscaped. Move-in-ready. Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083 ADAMS GREEN LANE 3+ acres | $1,525,000
Delaplane – GORGEOUS VIEWS!!! 7 parcels. Main parcel: 144.9 acres, new driveway, new well, underground electric, 6 BR perc site. Additional 42 acres in 6 parcels between 1.19 to 12.60 acres. John Coles | 540-270-0094
Upperville – 2 historic stone cottages that can function as a single residence or as 2 connected living spaces, ideal for a variety of living arrangements. 6-stall barn, paddocks, and studio apt.
Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201
Boyce – 3 BRs / 3 full BAs, custom built in 1985 and has many updates. In Blue Ridge Hunt territory, great ride-out! 2 parcels–In conservation easement.
Wayne Wilson | 540-622-8520 UNICORN HILL 74+ acres | $2,175,000
Boyce – Small horse farm with 3 BR / 2.5 BA Cape Cod in Blue Ridge hunt country. Original floors, beamed ceilings. 4-stall center aisle barn. 1 hour from Dulles. In conservation easement. Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499
Preserving This Way of Life for Future Generations
Thomas & Talbot respects the beauty of the land, lifestyle and the place we call home —now, and for future generations. We support and celebrate organizations like the PEC, Land Trust of Virginia and Goose Creek Foundation who make it possible to protect open spaces while enjoying the natural resources. We are proud to continue the culture of excellence that’s made Thomas & Talbot the premier agency in Horse Country for generations.
NEW IN TOWN: Faire isles Trading Co.
Written by Diane Helentjaris
by
Shannon Ayres
Despite being gone for over 200 years, Scottish writer Robert Burns has enticed a new shop to Middleburg. If not for his “To a Mouse” and other poems, there would have been no inaugural Burns Night in January 2026; without Burns Night, Kathleen Fraser likely wouldn’t have urged the Shahans to bring their Celtic shop to Middleburg. Serendipity can be a wonderful thing.
It didn’t take long for Adam and Stephanie Shahan to make up their minds. In early May 2026, they opened Faire Isles Trading Co. at 116 West Washington Street.
Browsing the shop offers an intriguing mix of exploration, discovery, and pleasure set against quiet Celtic music. As you poke around, Adam Shahan might be wiping off a few specks of im-
Trading | Page 25
Photos
Top: Men’s accessories, including boots, wallets, watches, and more. Bottom left: A lovely Celtic necklace. Bottom right: Plenty of options for gift-giving.
Trading | From page 24
perceptible dust from the sparkling barware on the store’s shelves. Originally from Taylor County, West Virginia, Adam is a full-time sergeant in the Virginia State Police. His wife, Stephanie, formerly with the FBI, grew up in Frederick County, Virginia. The couple live in Woodstock.
Their move into entrepreneurship began with the Highland Games. These traditional Scottish cultural celebrations feature competitive strength sports, Highland dancing, clan meetings, and bagpipes galore. While they’re held worldwide, today more Highland Games are held in the United States than in Scotland itself. Over time, the Shahans began working with another couple selling Celtic goods at the Highland Games in Virginia and New Hampshire. In 2023, that couple retired and the Shahans took over their Faire Isles Trading Co. business. The next year, the Shahans opened their first location in Old Town Winchester’s Walking Mall.
Their Middleburg shop is pristine and attractive, with a striking selection of goods. When a person opens a shop serving a niche, Stephanie believes the owners are “expected to know everything about the culture.” She adds, “That’s a lot of research to catch up on.”
Many Americans have knowledge of, and a personal interest in, Celtic life. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 9.5% of the population claims Irish ancestry and 3.6% lay claim to Scottish forebears.
Stephanie follows three cardinal rules for what she sells. First, “I go for product authenticity.” She also buys “local over there” — creations from independent artists and small companies. Lastly, she is “trying to bring in culturally significant items.” She lists Harris tweeds as an example, which are made in only three federally protected mills in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
In addition, she likes “things that tell a story … symbols, folklore. Everything has meaning.” One example is the Celtic cross, an iconic image that incorporates ancient pagan and later Christian symbolism.
Whether you need a red Irish sweater for a grandchild, a dog harness in a family tartan for your puppy, a kilt, a sporran, or a finely wrought Celtic cross necklace, you can find it at Faire Isles. You can also easily get lost looking up Scottish surnames in the stack of tartan swatch books. A robust inventory of gift ideas, art, houseware, and more is also available to buy online at faireislestrading.com.
Stephanie “loves to connect with people.” She says her hallmark is “getting to know the people who come in.” The shops in Middleburg and Winchester carry different inventory reflecting their customer bases. She finds Winchester folks often seek “festival clothing” for Highland Games events. They also look for utility kilts. Unlike traditional kilts, utility kilts can have added pockets, use Velcro or zippers for closures, and feature durable, machine-washable fabric. They are for everyday, casual, or work wear. Stephanie is still sorting out what’s popular with Middleburg customers. Her first foray includes offering a variety of Irish sweaters and tweed jackets.
“It’s all about the products and the experience,” she says. “What I take pride in — the crux of it — is making an enriching experience as you see [our goods] and browse… I want you to enjoy your time [in a] visually pleasing, aromatic [space] that hits all the senses.”
Faire Isles Trading Co. is not just for Celts; there is a universal appeal to Celtic culture. Hunt Country has a much older claim to kinship. In April 2026, King Charles III of England visited Virginia and underlined the literal bedrock con-
Trading | Page 26
Top: Stephanie Shahan. Bottom: The exterior of Faire Isles.
Trading | From page 25
nection between our region and the Celtic world. Referring to the prehistoric Pangea era, when the Appalachian Mountains and the Scottish Highlands were all part of one continuous mountain range, he noted: “Millenia before our nations existed, before any border drawn, the mountains of Scotland and Appalachia were one; a single, continuous range, forged in the ancient collision of continents.”
Faire Isles Trading Co. offers a fun way to explore our long-standing connection with the Celtic world. A robust inventory of gift ideas, art, houseware, and more is also available to buy online at faireislestrading.com ML
A wee painting of an Irish landscape.
Middleburg will welcome a new mission-driven shopping destination this July when Tree of Life Ministries opens its third Clothing Closet location at 15 East Federal Street. The boutique-style thrift shop combines affordable shopping with practical sup-
The CloThing CloseT Comes To middlebUrg
Written by Lia Hobel | Photos by Gracie Savage
port for local families by offering free clothing through a voucher program for those in need.
For Susannah Lee, chief executive officer of Tree of Life Ministries, the Middleburg opening represents both growth and continuity. The nonprofit began in 2008 and has expanded steadily across Loudoun County and into northern Fauquier, building its work around food, shelter, healthcare, relief, and life skills. “Last year we [helped] over 34,000 individuals in Loudoun alone, and now we’ve grown into northern Fauquier,” Lee says.
“The purpose of the Clothing Closet was so that we could offer a beautiful boutique shopping experience and [support] those that need clothes that couldn’t afford it,” Lee explains. “Dignity… to come in and have a complete shopping experience.”
That boutique approach has become central to the Clothing Closet’s identity. Rather than a typical thrift store, each location is designed to feel warm, organized, and welcoming. The atmosphere is inspired by Lee’s background in retail and a desire to create a space where every shopper — whether browsing for a bargain or receiv-
ing assistance — feels respected.
“Also, it just feels different,” Lee continues. “I knew what I wanted our stores not to be, and not to look like, and not to smell like.”
The Clothing Closet’s blush, white, and gray color palette is based on a decorative vase Lee was given years ago — an image that helped her imagine a softer, more polished environment than most people associate with thrift retail. Her experience working with brands like Ann Taylor and Bloomingdale’s informed the aesthetic choices, creating consistency from store to store while still allowing each space to reflect its own architecture and character.
The new Middleburg shop will open in a historic building at the corner of Federal and Liberty streets, with an entrance on the side. Inside, the store opens into a charming lower level with a balcony, stairs, and a layout that feels more like a small boutique than a thrift shop. The lower floor will feature jewelry, dresses, and the checkout area, while fitting rooms are located upstairs. Large windows fill the space with natural light and look out onto greenery beyond Middleburg
Closet | Page 29
The Clothing Closet in Middleburg.
| From page 28
Baptist Church, giving the interior an airy, almost serene quality. The organization has been looking for an opportunity to expand westward for some time, with the goal of serving both western Loudoun and nearby Fauquier communities.
The Middleburg store is the third location, following two existing Clothing Closet branches in Purcellville and Leesburg. Tree of Life describes the enterprise as “clothing with a cause,” with proceeds supporting the ministry’s larger outreach efforts while donations help stock the racks with gently used and new items for women, men, and children.
Lee emphasized that the shop’s appeal is not about exclusivity, but about quality and accessibility. “We don’t increase our prices,” she says. “I want the quality to be great. I want prices to be low, even with our paying customers, because I want them to understand the bargain that they’re getting when they walk into our stores.”
That philosophy has helped the Clothing Closet become more than a resale shop. It is also an access point for families that need help clothing children for school, adults for work, or households for a new season. Private shopping appointments are also available for voucher
recipients so families can shop with dignity and personal attention.
“Last year alone, we gave over 430 individuals free clothing out of our two locations,” Lee says. “We call the people that we serve partners, because we start to have relationships with those people that we serve,” she adds, underscoring Tree of Life’s commitment to community care.
For Middleburg residents, the opening brings a new option for shopping local while supporting a nonprofit. For Tree of Life, it’s another step in extending a model that blends retail, volunteerism, and practical aid into one storefront. Those who would like to donate clothing, volunteer, or inquire about clothing assistance can reach out directly to Tree of Life Ministries by emailing info@tolministries.org.
“We are excited to add Middleburg as a third location of the Clothing Closet,” Lee shares. “We are just incredibly excited to have an opportunity to serve that part of the county, and then even over into Fauquier County.”
The grand opening and ribbon-cutting are scheduled for July 9. The celebration is expected to include community leaders, local officials, and refreshments, with Tree of Life’s SimplyBe Coffee cart also on-site. ML
Closet
Top: There are plenty of accessories to peruse. Middle: Store manager Melissa Barton. Bottom: A rack of lovely women’s clothing.
Summer in Hunt Country is synonymous with outdoor events, especially at Great Meadow, where on any given day, there is likely a polo match, an educational camp, a live music show, or a flock of runners participating in the Miles at the Meadow series. This year, the event space added yet another exciting equestrian occasion to its calendar: the Four Nations Cup.
“We have this gorgeous polo field that we use all summer, but we didn’t have a season opener,” explains Great Meadow’s executive director, Cin-
dy Jeffery. She adds, “It was designed as the season opener to welcome everybody to the property.”
The inaugural cup featured four teams — the U.S., U.K., Pakistan, and Argentina — competing across two days to determine the lineup for the final, which was held on June 14.
The action extended beyond the polo pitch with no shortage of sponsor showcases, vendors, and tailgates, all resulting in a high-end yet family-friendly atmosphere.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Washington served as
the event’s luxury automotive partner, creating an elegant atmosphere both inside the Ambassadors Tent and on the field. Aptly named, the tent hosted a handful of dignitaries, including His Excellency Talal Al Rahbi, ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman; Motaz Zahran, ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt; Lui Tuck Yew, ambassador of the Republic of Singapore; Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; Furqat Sidikov, ambassador of the Republic of Uz-
Nations | Page 31
The Saint Andrew’s Society Color Guard.
bekistan; and Ana Irene Delgado, ambassador of the Republic of Panama.
Rolls-Royce also played a prominent ceremonial role, escorting the Saint Andrew’s Society Color Guard during the Presentation of the Colors, honoring each of the participating nations before the tournament began. Welcome drinks and the signature Divot Stomp Aperol Spritz were provided by Mesciu Gigi.
On the opposite side of the field, guests enjoyed a lively tailgating experience, with reserved spaces available in a variety of sizes to suit different groups. “We wanted to create an experience that was accessible to everyone,” Jeffery notes. “Whether guests chose to entertain from a private tailgate or simply enjoy the day through general admission, the entire property was buzzing with activity.”
When asked about the response to the inaugural event, Jeffery says, “The biggest takeaway wasn’t just the polo — it was the sense of community.” She adds, “People from different backgrounds came together to share in each other’s traditions. Hearing the national anthems of all four countries, watching the flags presented together, and seeing everyone celebrating side by side created a truly special atmosphere.”
Jeffery continues, “This tournament was about more than sport. It was about unity, friendship, and building connections across cultures. If people left feeling that, then we accomplished exactly what we set out to do.”
History was woven throughout the day, perhaps most poignantly during the presentation of the tournament’s championship trophy, the Ambassador’s Cup. The cup was first awarded in 1972, when Marion Hartzog Smoak Jr., then chief of protocol of the United States, established the Chief of Protocol Polo Tournament to foster diplomacy and international friendship
through sport.
“The trophy has an incredible legacy,” Jeffery explains. “It was contested for decades and then, unfortunately, it disappeared from competition.”
Smoak’s daughter, a resident of Virginia’s horse country, learned of the Four Nations Cup and chose to bequeath the historic trophy to Great Meadow.
“To be entrusted with such an important piece of diplomatic and sporting history is an incredible honor,” Jeffery shares. “We’re proud that the Ambassador’s Cup now has a new home at Great Meadow, where it can once again symbolize international friendship and sportsmanship for generations to come.”
Adding to the significance of the moment, Smoak’s daughter attended the inaugural Four Nations Cup and presented the historic Ambassador’s Cup to Team Pakistan after their 10-7 victory over the United Kingdom in the championship match.
“It was a wonderful full-circle moment. To have the family who entrusted us with this incredible trophy present it to the first champions of its new era made the day even more meaningful,” Jeffery reflects.
For those who missed this year’s tournament, Jeffery is planning to bring it back next year.
“It is simply a wonderful day in the Virginia countryside. Whether you’re a lifelong polo fan or you’ve never seen a match before, it’s an opportunity to experience an exciting sport, meet people from around the world, and enjoy a truly unique day outdoors.”
She finishes, “What makes the Four Nations Cup special isn’t where you watch the match from — it’s the atmosphere. Whether you’re in the Ambassadors Tent, at a tailgate with friends, or enjoying general admission, everyone is part of the same celebration of sport, friendship, and community.” ML
Top: Team U.S. and Argentina. Middle: The Chief of Protocol Trophy. Bottom: Team Pakistan celebrating their win.
The FoUr naTions CUp
14, 2026
June
| Photos by Nancy Kleck
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OUR MISSION
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Donate today at forthecatssake.org
Q&a wiTh JenniFer horn oF horn & Co.
Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Camden Littleton
For our “Get Outside” July issue, Middleburg Life chatted with Jennifer Horn, who has made a living working with and in nature as the founding principal of a landscape architecture firm. She recently opened a second Horn & Co. office on Washington Street in Middleburg, her first in Hunt Country. Drawn to the region by its authenticity and her growing volume of projects, she shares below a little bit about herself, her work, and what inspires her.
ML: Please introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
JH: Hi! My name is Jennifer Horn and I own Horn & Co., which is a landscape architecture firm that specializes in residential landscapes and gardens.
ML: How did you get into the landscape architecture and horticulture industry?
JH: A couple different factors — as a child, I was able to live in Malay-
Jennifer Horn.
sia for a few years. We had orchids growing in the mango trees out back and all kinds of fabulous tropical plants growing in our yard. I think it definitely heightened my awareness of plants. Then, back in the States, I got a job at a local plant nursery. At that point, I knew I wanted to get a degree in horticulture and then a master’s in landscape architecture, and then, after working for a while, I would want to start my own business. And I’ve pretty much followed that track!
ML: What inspired you to open a location in Middleburg?
JH: Over the years, we’ve had more projects pop up between Leesburg and Rappahannock County. We have built friendships with designers and builders out this way, and we’ve loved working with those partners. More so, we’re always drawn to projects where there is an emphasis on legacy and authenticity, and people in the Middleburg area seem to have similar values.
Q&A | Page 35
Q&A | From page 34
ML: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
JH: Nothing is better than getting a text from a client from years ago with a picture of their garden thriving. I love that people stay in touch with us and they appreciate how a garden matures and evolves long after we are a steady presence at the site.
ML: Do you have any recent projects that you are particularly excited about?
JH: We are wrapping up the first phase for a historic site in Rappahannock County. We’ve really connected with our clients’ passion for preserving this original house’s fingerprints — we’ve tried to make sure we’re continuing to steward a legacy that predates our involvement while still incorporating modern practices and conveniences into the program, whether it’s native plants, sustainable practices, or a well-conceived (but restrained!) outdoor cooking space.
ML: Where do you draw design inspiration from?
JH: On larger projects, we always start with the cultural and natural history of the site. There is so much history in Virginia and so many opportunities to interpret this in the design decisions we make. Furthermore, we want to make sure the landscapes are a net positive for the environment, supporting watersheds and beneficial wildlife.
ML: When you are not working, what are you up to? Any favorite hobbies?
JH: I have two little kids, so hobbies aren’t really happening right now! But I love to read and, when it’s feasible, travel. I lived in Malaysia as a kid, from ages 7 to 10. My kids are 7 and 9, and this summer we’re vacationing in Malaysia and Thailand. I feel insanely fortunate I get to revisit — literally — that moment with them, and they get a chance to see places and cultures so different
from our own.
ML: Open mic! What do you want our readers to know about you or Horn & Co.?
JH: Our team is the best! It’s important to me to mentor the people in our office. I like to think we have a good rapport and that people feel supported. I want to make sure everyone has a chance to develop their skills and to shine. Landscape architecture is often referred to as a practice; it takes a long time to learn the ropes, and I have been doing this long enough that I hope to be a good resource to younger people still learning. ML
Top left: Horn holds a team meeting at a project site.
Top right: Horn and Angela Koloszar. Bottom: From left to right: Max Hyman, Jennifer Horn, Angela Koloszar, and Allie Connell.
reTUrn To ChinCoTeagUe: New Book to Inspire the Next Generation
Written by Sarah Hickner | Image courtesy of Susan Friedland
Seventy-nine years ago, Marguerite Henry wrote a book that would capture the hearts of millions of children and turn a small-town fundraiser into a nationwide treasure. “Misty of Chincoteague” became more than a book; it was a piece of every horse-obsessed kid’s childhood. Now, Susan Friedland, a Marguerite Henry historian, and Cameron Rouse, a local equestrian artist, have created a picture book, bringing the excitement of that same pony swim to a new generation of readers.
“I wanted to know who Marguerite Henry was as a writer and a horsewoman, so I dove into the research rabbit hole and never came out.”
– Friedland
MARGUERITE HENRY INSPIRED A GENERATION
Marguerite Henry authored 59 stories over the course of her 55-year career, and her equestrian-themed tales are still beloved classics. “Misty of Chincoteague” is one of her most famous.
Readers of the novel held their breath as a Spanish
Book | Page 37
“Swirl: My Wild Island Pony.”
galleon ran aground, spilling its cargo of ponies onto the uninhabited shores of Assateague Island, and dreamed alongside Paul and Maureen Beebe as they worked around their grandparents’ farm, saving every penny in hopes of buying their own pony on Pony Penning Day. And, when the Beebes lost the auction for Phantom and her foal Misty, only to be given a second chance at bringing them home, bookworms both young and
Book | From page 36 old experienced the emotion jumping off the pages.
SUSAN FRIEDLAND’S JOURNEY TO CHINCOTEAGUE
Susan Friedland was one of many people enchanted by Henry’s stories. She grew up near Chicago, Illinois, five miles from where Henry had lived and stabled the real-life Misty of Chincoteague. Friedland taught history before leaving the classroom to combine two of her great loves: horses and horse stories.
and the writing journey behind “Marguerite, Misty, and Me.” Part memoir and part biography of Marguerite Henry, the title has even been adapted into a middle-grade edition.
CAMERON ROUSE CREATES WHIMSY AND JOY THROUGH ART
Friedland and Rouse, introduced by a mutual friend, attended the 100th wild pony swim together last July. On a boat between Chincoteague and Assateague, Rouse experienced the
recently brought her art to the page.
With the 101st wild pony swim and auction around the corner on July 29, Friedland and Rouse recreate the magic of the pony swim in Friedland’s upcoming children’s picture book, “Swirl: My Wild Island Pony.”
Across 32 pages, readers will journey alongside a little girl who has always dreamed of having a pony of her own. They’ll meet Swirl, a sweet foal, and they’ll have a chance encounter with three sisters who purchase a foal through
Chincoteague’s beloved “buyback” tradition, returning her to the island so she can remain wild and belong, in a way, to everyone.
“I’ve always loved drawing horses, painting horses, and even photographing horses — someday I’d love to start sculpting them!”
– Friedland
“I wanted to know who Marguerite Henry was as a writer and a horsewoman, so I dove into the research rabbit hole and never came out. Even though I never met her, through my local equestrian connections, I was able to meet people who attended Misty’s birthday parties and even rode Misty,” Friedland says.
She has published multiple works about Henry and the wild pony swim, and has become a familiar presence during Chincoteague Island’s Pony Penning week. The Museum of Chincoteague Island and Chincoteague Island Library often invite her to share stories from her research
magic of scenes that previously she had only read about. “It brought me to tears,” she shares about watching the ponies swim the channel. “It’s wild. I didn’t think I would care about it that much, but now I’m telling everyone to come! I can’t believe this is so close to where I grew up.”
Cameron Rouse took her passion for all things horses to the creative world of art and graphic design. She has created breathtaking paintings for local horse owners, manages social media accounts for professional equestrians, and most
Rouse’s whimsical watercolor illustrations will have every horse lover wishing for a Swirl of their own.
“I’ve always loved drawing horses, painting horses, and even photographing horses — someday I’d love to start sculpting them! At pony club rallies growing up, I would be sitting in the tack room doing custom puffy paint hats, basically a custom little portrait of my friends and their horses on a ballcap,” Rouse says.
For her, seeing the wild pony swim in real life, along
with the carnival and the auction, has helped her bring Swirl’s story and one of the country’s most beloved equestrian traditions to life.
Through Friedland’s storytelling and Rouse’s watercolor illustrations, the legacy of Marguerite Henry lives on, inviting a new generation of children to fall in love with Chincoteague’s wild ponies for the very first time. ML
Order your copy of “Swirl: My Wild Island Pony” at swirlpony.com.
CARRYING FORWARD A LEGACY OF STEWARDSHIP
The Malcolm Matheson III Memorial Scholarship Fund Supports the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders
Written by Shayda Windle
Few people embodied Virginia’s Hunt Country traditions and commitment to conservation quite like Malcolm Matheson III. Known throughout the region for his decades of leadership with the Orange County Hounds (OCH), Matheson is remembered not only as a master horseman and outdoorsman, but as someone whose generosity, humor, and love of Hunt Country left a lasting mark on the community.
Following his passing in February, those who knew him fondly recalled the “twinkle in his eye,” his legendary storytelling, his mentorship, and the lasting impact he had on those around him. In honoring Matheson’s life, his family invited memorial contributions to support the OCH Conservation Foundation. In his memory, OCHCF established a scholarship dedicated to stewardship of the land and community he deeply loved.
Today, the OCH Conservation Foundation is proud to announce those contributions are helping continue his legacy through the Malcolm Matheson III Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides young conservationists with hands-on
educational opportunities in wildlife rehabilitation, land stewardship, and environmental preservation.
For those closest to him, the scholarship feels like a continuation of Matheson’s life’s work. In addition to serving more than 20 years as Joint Master of Foxhounds for the Orange County Hounds, Matheson spent 17 years on the Chairman’s Advisory Council for the Land Trust of Virginia.
Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Colvin Matheson shares, “He taught us to cherish those around us and to be stewards of our surroundings. Foxhunting and land conservation were deeply woven into the fabric of who he was.”
For Malcolm, this philosophy extended beyond preserving landscapes; it also meant investing in, guiding, and mentoring the next generation that would care for them.
“Conservation depends on young people understanding not only why stewardship matters, but experiencing that responsibility firsthand,”
| Page 39
Top: Malcolm Matheson. Photo by Joanne Maisano. Bottom: Lindsey Davis. Photo courtesy of the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center.
says Glenn Epstein, founder and treasurer of the OCH Conservation Foundation. “This scholarship is about cultivating future leaders while preserving the values and landscapes Malcolm cared so deeply about.”
The fund’s first major partnership reflects exactly that mission.
This summer, the scholarship is supporting a wildlife rehabilitation internship through the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center, offering immersive, hands-on training in wildlife care and environmental stewardship. Interns work directly alongside rehabilitation staff, assisting with patient care, wildlife handling, treatment support, and conservation education efforts.
The inaugural scholarship recipient, Lindsay Davis of Annapolis, Maryland, brings a strong background in ecology and wildlife conservation to the role. A recent graduate of Susquehanna
University with a degree in ecology, Davis has worked in wildlife rehabilitation, freshwater ecology, and avian conservation. She represents the kind of emerging environmental leadership the scholarship was created to support.
Leaders from both organizations say the partnership highlights the growing need for mentorship and field experience as conservation programs face increasing financial and staffing pressures.
“In many ways, this is how we can truly scale our impact beyond the individual animals we are able to save at the Center,” Matthew Sheedy of the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center explains. “Programs like this help develop the next generation of wildlife professionals at a time when conservation efforts face significant challenges.”
For many who knew Matheson, mentorship and stewardship were inseparable. Whether introducing young riders to foxhunting traditions,
championing land management, or welcoming newcomers into the community with warmth and humor, he believed deeply in investing in others. Friends remembered him as “a pillar of the community,” “the consummate country gentleman,” and someone whose enthusiasm for conservation and rural life was contagious.
His family perhaps described him best in his obituary, writing that Matheson “lived life to the fullest,” always seeking ways to help others while preserving the landscapes and traditions he cherished. Through the scholarship fund established in his honor, those values will continue shaping future generations of conservationists for years to come. ML
Those wishing to support the Malcolm Matheson III Memorial Scholarship Fund may make tax-deductible contributions through the OCH Conservation Foundation at ochcf.org.
Legacy | From page 38
A scene from a recent wildlife safari program. Photo by Brooke McDonough, Virginia Working Landscapes.
Our Favorite Local Gifts for Getting Outside
Girls’ Swimsuit, $42, Available at Posh Pixies
Boat Set, $20, & Make Your Own Motor Boat, $12, Available at The PLAYroom
Krewe Sunglasses, $396, Available at Zest Clothing & Co.
Merry People Bobbi Ankle Rain Boots, $140, Available at Afield
Outdoor Blanket Roll, $115, Available at Atelier Maison
Wicker Fan, $8, Available at Loudoun Market
“Fifty Places to Fly Fish Before You Die,” $41, Available at Middleburg Books
Pocket Flower Press, $24, Available at Nature Composed
Dog Embroidered Baseball Caps, $25 each, Available at Chloe’s of Middleburg
Melamine Outdoor Plates, $72 for a set of four, Available at Bedford Lee
Available at Brick & Mortar
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THE BYRNE GALLERY PRESENTS: “OCEAN SONG”
July 1 - August 30 | thebyrnegallery.com
Step off Washington Street and into the world of art at The Byrne Gallery this month. The gallery’s latest exhibition explores the serenity of water as interpreted by local artists Gerald Hennesy, Shawn Hennesy, Jeffrey Kibler, and Victor Nizovstev. The gallery features a variety of mediums and is sure to have something for everyone.
AMERICA 250: MIDDLEBURG INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
July 4 | 12 to 10 p.m. | visitmiddleburgva.com
Celebrate America’s milestone birthday in Middleburg with all this town has to offer. From free swimming and hot dogs to an Art of the Flag event with artist Matt Pavone, there is something for the whole family. The classic Independence Day Kids’ Parade is not one to miss, so
bring your kids to join in on the fun. The best way to end the day is with the firework show at 9:15 p.m. More information about all events can be found on the Town of Middleburg website.
“BRIDGERTON” WINE TASTING
July 11 | 1 to 4 p.m. | boxwoodwinery.com
Head over to the Boxwood Estate Winery for a “Bridgerton”-themed wine tasting. Attendees will be transported to Mayfair, so make sure to dress in festive attire and get ready for an experience like no other. Check the Boxwood website to reserve your spot.
BINGO & MIDDLEBURG HUMANE ADOPTION EVENT
July 12 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. | lostbarrel.com
Join Lost Barrel Brewery for a night of bingo and fundraising. The Middleburg Humane
Foundation will benefit from 10% of food sales. Come for the bingo, stay for the dogs. Adoptable dogs will be present at the event, giving guests a chance to meet some of what the foundation has to offer on-site. This event is free to attend and open to all community members.
JUNIOR RANGER CAMP AT SKY MEADOWS
July 14 - 17 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. | dcr.virginia.gov
Perfect for kids ages 7 to 10, Sky Meadows Junior Ranger Camp will take place over four half days. Kids will enjoy hands-on activities, guided hikes, agricultural education, and outdoor skill building. The week will conclude with a graduation ceremony. The camp is $150 and can be booked through Eventbrite.
Calendar | Page 43
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Calendar | From page 42
LAND COVER OF LOUDOUN COUNTY IN 1776 PRESENTED BY DR. EMILY SOUTHGATE
July 16 | 7 to 8 p.m. | library.loudoun.gov
Join Dr. Emily Southgate at the Middleburg Library in an exploration of the land our founding fathers saw. Using her expert knowledge of regional ecology and historical 18th-century documents, Southgate uncovers what was.
FLORAL ARRANGING WORKSHOP
July 18 | 9 to 11 a.m. | osgf.org
Create natural art with the Oak Spring Garden Foundation’s summer floral arranging workshop. In this hands-on experience, participants will learn the fundamentals of floral design us-
ing fresh cut flowers from OSGF’s own garden. Guests will enjoy light seasonal refreshments while they create. They will walk away with their own bouquet, a jar of jelly, and the knowledge to create beauty from their own garden.
WATERCOLOR PET PORTRAIT CLASS
July 18 | 2 to 4 p.m. | lostbarrel.com
Artist Alexandra Schmeling will host a watercolor workshop at Lost Barrel Brewing. Participants will have the opportunity to paint their favorite furry friend based on an outline created by Schmeling. Schmeling will offer individualized instruction, and each attendee will leave with a completed watercolor painting, paints, and brushes to continue their painting journey.
All skill levels are welcome. Tickets are available on Eventbrite until July 16.
CELEBRATING LEVEN POWELL, FOUNDER OF MIDDLEBURG
July 19 | 4 to 6 p.m. | themiddleburgmuseum.org
Discover Middleburg’s rich history by celebrating the town’s founder at the Middleburg Museum. Explore the museum’s Lieutenant Colonel Leven Powell exhibit and learn how his vision helped shape Middleburg into what it is today. Attendees are invited to join a garden toast to mark his 289th birthday.
For more Hunt Country events, visit MiddleburgLife.com or scan here:
by
Photo
Stephanie Barstow
Elevate the Everyday
From afternoon gatherings to evening indulgences, Gold Cup Wine Bar transforms every visit into an occasion worth savoring. Our warm ambiance complements an impressive selection of Virginia’s finest wines, artfully crafted cocktails, and delectable fare.
