 
|
 |
A brief history of Whitehall Manor
Whitehall Farm is located in Virginia on the foothills of the
majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in the small town of Bluemont
(originally known as Snickersville). During the later part of the
19th Century this scenic landscape was a resort community for “City
Folk” from Alexandria and Washington that ventured out of the city
on board the Washington & Old Dominion Railroad. The natural breezes
that whisper through Williams Gap & Snickers Gap in the mountains
made this a very popular destination.
Whitehall Manor was originally built during the Federal Period
(circa 1810). It was a fine brick home that survived the Civil War
"Battle of Snickersville" on October 22, 1862 which is said to have
taken place across the rolling fields, in front of the Manor House.
However, at some later date, the house was taken by fire but the
structure remained. An additional layer of brick was added and the
interior woodwork was reconstructed in the style of the day.
Circa 1890, the later part of the Nineteenth Century brought about
many changes to the home. The Classical Revival Ballroom was built
in order to entertain prominent guests, along with such amenities as
a Coach Landing, Italian Marble Fireplaces, Running Water inside the
Manor, Gas Lighting and Streetlights from the Manor House to the
nearby Train Depot.
Throughout the 20th Century, Whitehall Farm was one of the largest
dairy farms in this part of the State. It was the home of James and
Zora Brownell for 40 years and developed a fine reputation for
gracious hospitality. Today the tradition continues as of the regions finest reception venues.
|
|
|
|
