By Lynn R. Mitchell
The weather is perfect today in the Shenandoah Valley — the sun is out, the sky is blue, and the temps will be around 75 degrees — for the Greater Augusta Garden Club and the Garden Club of Virginia’s Staunton and Augusta County House and Garden Tour. Taking place from 10am until 5pm, the cost is $30 per person and tickets can be purchased at any of the tour locations.
Staunton is one of Virginia’s most celebrated preservation success stories. Located at the city’s edge, just minutes from downtown, are several well-conserved properties surrounded by rolling green fields and sweeping views. Each of the farms and estates on this year’s tour has a deep connection with the area’s historic and cultural roots. These 200+ acre properties are anchored by landmark residences in the Federal, Tudor Revival and French Eclectic styles with construction dates ranging from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries. These working farms showcase the many ways in which the owners are farming and conserving the land via easements, cattle, poultry/eggs, community-supported agriculture (CSA), even beekeeping. Live music and speakers discussing the topics of land conservation and the area’s agricultural heritage are included in the tour experience. A catered box luncheon will be offered.
In the Staunton area, properties included on the tour are Indian Meadow Farm in Verona, Inn at Old Virginia in Staunton, Gaie Lea and Farm Pavilion in Staunton, Cobble Hill Farm and Collins Barn in Staunton, and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum in Staunton. Entertainment and lectures are available at various locations throughout the day.
The redbuds and dogwoods are blooming and spring flowers are on display for Virginia’s Garden Week.
LynnRMitchell.com 