Oatlands tea season kicks off with our Valentine's Day teas on February 11 and 12. Spend a relaxing afternoon over tea with savory and sweet goodies served in Oatlands historic Carriage House. This is a great way to show your love or appreciation for someone special! $26.95 per person, plus tax.

Just for Valentine's Day, we are offering specially themed Romance Tours of Oatlands mansion.  Hear tales of love affairs and happy endings during these tours offered only on February 11 and 12 at 12noon and 2pm.  Reservations are required for these special tours, and the cost is $12 per person ($6 per person if combined with tea).

Cap off your day with our Gift Shop Sale February 10 through 14.  Get the best bargains of the year in Oatlands' lovely gift shop, and support our wonderful property while stocking up on unique items for your gift-giving needs (or for yourself!).  The gift shop is open 10am-4pm February 10 through 14 for this fabulous sale.

 A Winter Afternoon with Andrew McKnight
3-5pm, Sunday February 19, 2012

Nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Andrew McKnight will perform as a benefit for Oatlands from 3-5pm on Sunday, February 19.  Oatlands is thrilled to host a performer of Andrew's caliber!  Andrew regularly tours across the country, bringing his warm and supple vocals and masterful guitar to a variety of venues including the Kennedy Center, small theaters, music festivals and radio shows.  His music is folk with a message.

Tickets to this very special and intimate concert are $20 and are available for advance purchase by clicking here.  Coffee, tea, hot cocoa and cookies will be served.

OATLANDS ELECTS MICHAEL J. O’CONNOR AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

LEESBURG, VA--The Board of Directors of Oatlands Historic House and Gardens is proud to announce the election of Michael J. O'Connor of Leesburg, VA as its new Chairman.

Mr. O'Connor, although never having lost his Chicago accent, has been in Loudoun County for over thirty (30) years.  He is actively involved in many civic activities in Leesburg and Loudoun County.

As one of the founders and co-chairs of the Downtown Improvment Association, Mr. O'Connor spearheaded many of the the changes the Town of Leesburg will witness over the next few years.  Mr. O'Connor is a sponsor of Leesburg's First Night; he has been active on the Oatlands Board of Directors for eight years; he is on the Board of Governers for Middleburg Hunt; he is a Board member of the former Cross Roads; and he has been a Board Director of the Virginia League of Conservation Voters.

He is active politically and has participated, in a bi-partisan manner, in many of the elections here in Loudoun County.  Mr. O'Connor was the 2010 Business Leader of the Year for Loudoun Democratic Party.

Mr. O'Connor is committed to building the local economy and is a local business owner himself.  Through Kingdom Enterprise, his real estate company located in Leesburg, he is involved in many of the Leesburg downtown businesses.  All of the properties he owns are rented and running successful, vibrant and meaningful businesses.  He is also owner of The Palio Ristorante Italiano in downtown Leesburg which has sponsored events for the Loudoun Symphony, Leesburg Airport, The Leesburg Veterans of Foreign Wars, and many other civic organizations.

Mr. O'Connor is also the Owner and CEO of Facilities Solutions Group in Reston, VA providing services to corporate and Federal government entities and the intelligence community.

Oatlands, a National Trust Historic Site, seeks a Director of Programming and Education to manage public programming and community outreach.  This key position contributes to Oatlands mission by presenting history in an accessible way.

CLICK HERE for full job description.

Qualified candidates may submit cover letter and resume to Oatlands.Jobs@gmail.com

Christmas at Oatlands through December 30!  Enjoy this lovely property decorated for the season.  Our special holiday exhibit theme this year is "Women of Oatlands".  (Oatlands is closed on Dec. 24 and 25)

Our special Christmas exhibit runs through Dec. 30.  We are open Mon.-Sat. 10am to 5pm, Sun. 1pm to 5pm.  The last tour of each day begins at 4pm. Regular admission fees apply, but of course, members of Friends of Oatlands are always admitted free.

Special Things to Do and Enjoy at Oatlands!
Four Seasons of Oatlands Miniature Art Show & Sale Nov. 28-Dec. 30 in the Carriage House.  This is free and open to the public during our regular hours.  

Gingerbread House Contest on December 18 with Child and Adult Categories. Advance registration is required.  Judging of entries will be done by members of the Loudoun Design Cabinet.  Please call 703 777 3174 x100 for details or CLICK HERE for the rules.

Christmas Caroling from 4:30-6:00pm on December 17.   $12 adults, $5 for children under 12 includes apple cider, cookies, a walk through Oatlands spectacularly decorated mansion, and caroling in the drawing room.

A Barnyard Christmas by the StageCoach Theatre Company on December 15, 16 and 17 at 7pm in Oatlands' Carriage House.  This special children's theatre production will entertain the little ones and get everyone in the holiday spirit. The play is in two acts and will conclude at approximately 8:30.  We're told that a very special guest may make an appearance... Tickets are $15 per person, and the doors open at 6:30pm.  Please click here for a link to StageCoach Theatre's website for ticket purchases.  You may also call (954) 918-6666 for advance ticket reservations.

Holiday Teas also offer a special opportunity to celebrate the season with friends and family.  See our Afternoon Tea calendar for dates and details.  These book quickly--it's never too early to call! Teas for Dec. 4, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23 and 29 are sold out.

Shopping, shopping, shopping!  That perfect holiday decor item, a thoughtful gift, unique jewelry, an Oatlands gift membership...the possibilities are vast.  Our fabulous gift shop staff can help you find just the right thing, every time.  Open Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. 1pm-5pm.  Members of the Friends of Oatlands program always receive a discount in our gift shop! 


Your own private holiday party at Oatlands! Rentals are available--call for rates and availability.

Give the gift of membership!  Members of the Friends of Oatlands are part of a lovely group of people who support and enjoy this national treasure year-round.  Membership offers exclusive benefits and is the gift that keeps giving in every season of the year.

Oatlands Board of Directors and Oatlands staff were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of David Boyce.   For the fourteen years he was at Oatlands, first as historian and then as executive director, his contributions to the property were significant. 

Not only was he instrumental in securing funding to purchase adjacent acreage that was under threat from development, he also secured funding to restore Oatlands' historic greenhouse-one of the oldest propagation greenhouses in the nation.  David was tireless in his work in preservation and fundraising, and he helped to put Oatlands on sound financial footing.  

He will be greatly missed by all of his Oatlands friends and family, as well as by the many people at the National Trust for Historic Preservation who knew and loved him.

Oatlands extends our deepest sympathy to David's family and many friends.

On Tuesday, November 29 at noon, Oatlands will honor the life and legacy of David Y. Boyce.  We will plant a tree in Oatlands' Memorial Oak Grove (weather permitting) and we'll enjoy one of David's very favorite things--a pot-luck lunch in the Carriage House.

Oatlands will supply beverages.  If you were one of the many people who called David friend, bring a dish to share and your favorite memories.

Come to tea at Oatlands in November.  Relax and enjoy the company of your favorite people before the rush of the holiday season.  Break up the shopping and holiday preparations with an oh-so-civilized and well-deserved break.

We're taking reservations now.  703.777.3174  Click here for the full tea schedule.

Every first Saturday in 2011, Oatlands will offer outdoor Plantation Tours.  The tours are being offered as part of Loudoun County's Sesquicentennial Commemoration of the Civil War.

These special outdoor tours focus on the history of the plantation operations on the property.  Knowledgeable tour guides will give an overview of the lives of the enslaved as well as discuss the agricultural and industrial functions of Oatlands during its years as a working plantation. 

Tours are offered at 11am and 1pm.  Cost for tours is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and $7 for students 6-16 years of age.  If combined with a mansion tour, the additional cost for the Plantation Tour is $5.

Tours are outdoors over moderately difficult terrain, including gravel paths, steep stairs, and steep hills.  Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear.  Strollers will have difficulty navigating the tour route.

Call 703 777 3174 for more information.

Announcing the Fourth Annual Four Seasons of Oatlands Miniature* Art Show and Sale
November 28-December 23, 2011. 

Artists are encouraged to submit their work for the show and sale.  Deadline for submission is 5pm on Wednesday, November 17.  Get the details on sizing requirements and registering your artwork by clicking the "Read More" link below.

Show is cancelled due to the weather.

Returning to for the 28th year, the Middleburg Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Show will bring October to a close at Oatlands.  We are so pleased to have MKC with us again this year!

Please see the MKC website for all show details.  The parking fee is $5 and Oatlands remains open for tours throughout the show.  No pets, please.

All Tours Sold Out!!!

Experience a different Oatlands after dark!  Make your reservations now for one of our paranormal tours at 7pm and 8pm each evening from Oct. 24-Oct. 28, and at 6pm, 7pm and 8pm on Oct. 29 and 30.  Space is limited to 20 people per tour.

Our tour guides will share exciting ghost legends and personal tales of unexplained happenings on the property.  Guests will also learn about the findings of the ongoing paranormal investigations at Oatlands. New investigations in the past year have yielded new activity to be shared on this year's tour. 

These tours have been wildly popular in the last two years and usually sell out. This is a fun tour that is suitable for children about 8 or older (Parents, you know your children best and are the most competent judge of what will be comfortable for them).

Call 703.777.3174 for reservations.  The tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children under 12.

BBQ, Beer and Brownies at the Barn

Sunday, October 23, 2011 1-5pm
Featuring nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Andrew McKnight
and solo acoustic artist Kerry McCool
THANK YOU!  Oatlands thanks all our guests, performers, sponsors, volunteers, staff and board for making this event an amazing success.  We hope to see everyone again next year!

Special thanks to our generous sponsors:

Consumer Insights Group
Capital Party Rentals
The Chef's Table
Andrew McKnight
Alpine Sanitation
StageCoach Theatre Company
Kerry McCool
Medical Personnel Services
Franklin Park Performing Arts Center
28th Virginia Infantry
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Kitchen
J & H Market at Pumpkinville

and Pie Donors
Ayrshire Farms
Mom's Apple Pie
Hill High Orchard Store
Savoir Fare Limited

Next week, 10/11-10/14, visitors to Oatlands will have the chance to see archeologists at work in two separate locations on the property.  Digs will be happening both in the Carter Barn area at the east end of the garden, and in the garden itself along the north wall. 

This is a very special week and we're excited about what might be found and what we might learn. 

To make this accessible to the public, Oatlands is offering special walking tours of both sites at 4pm each day, Tuesday 10/11 through Friday 10/14.  The walking tours will be offered at the $7 gardens and grounds tour fee.

If you have a home school group and would like to have a tour at another time, please phone us.  We can make accommodations for groups.

Photo shows a pottery fragment that likely dates to before the Civil War.

As part of the commemoration of the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, Oatlands is offering an occasional series of special tours, with access to parts of the property and collection not usually on view to the public.  Oatlands offers a fascinating look at the Civil War on the Homefront.

Join us on October 22 or 23 at 11am or 1pm for a unique glimpse into the Civil War on the homefront. A special additional tour will be offered at 3pm on October 23 in conjunction with our BBQ, Beer and Brownies at the Barn event. 

Issues relevant to non-combatants will be explored through the eyes of Oatlands inhabitants, with discussion extending to pre and post war conditions. The tour will go behind the scenes and visitors will get a rare glimpse of Oatlands' basements and kitchen.  Elizabeth Carter's and Kate Powell Carter's diaries will both be on display.  $10 adults, $9 seniors, $7 children 6-16.  This is a walking tour, and participants will be both outdoors and indoors during the course of the tour.  Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Oatlands is proud to introduce Teas and Talks--a new special series of teas paired with interesting presentations and discussions.  

October 2, Marc Leepson will join us again to discuss a little known Civil War battle that saved Washington, D.C., featured in his book Desperate Engagement.

All teas begin at 1pm.  The cost for this special series is $29.95 per person (plus tax).  Call 703.777.3174 for your reservations today!

The series began on June 11, with a presentation on the Meaning of Flowers by Carolyn McCarthy, Master Gardener and former Oatlands Head Gardener.

On July 17, a crowd joined Susan Gray for a lively program about Antonia Ford, Confederate spy, and her relationship with Union soldier Joseph Willard. (SOLD OUT)

September 11, Marc Leepson will talk about his book Flag: An American Biography. 

A Summer Garden Wine Tasting

August 28, 2011 at 5pm

Event Update as of 2:30pm 8/28:  Due to muddy conditions at the tent site, we will gather in the Carriage House and walk up to the garden for the tasting. 

Featuring Award-Winning Sommelier Mary Watson-DeLauder

Join us in Oatlands' uniquely beautiful garden for a uniquely wonderful wine tasting experience.
Wander Oatlands' garden with a glass of wine while Mary explains the art of pairing wine with summer fresh herbs, grown right here at Oatlands.

We'll be serving summery hors d'oeuvres paired with tastes of wines picked by Mary in an elegant tent on the mansion lawn.  Willowcroft Vineyards, Fabbioli Cellars and Dry Mill Vineyards & Winery will be here.  Palio Ristorante Italiano will provide the light refreshments.

Dress is casual.  Wear comfortable shoes--we'll be walking around the garden. This event is limited to 54 people, and we'll be taking our garden stroll with Mary in two groups.

$55 per person includes wine tastings and hors d'oeuvres.

Call 703.777.3174 x115 for reservations or book online.
Tickets are non-refundable.

Now through the end of September, Oatlands is offering two for one tours on Tuesdays!  Or become a member and get regular property admission and tours free. 

Click here to print coupon and bring it to Oatlands to enjoy the savings.

Help Oatlands try something new!  For the first time, we are offering online tea booking to make your reservation quicker, simpler and easier for you.  Tell us what you think and book your end of summer afternoon tea online today.

Simply CLICK HERE to make your reservation.

Tea is $24.95 per person plus tax. Tea reservations are non-refundable.  Tours can be added the day of your tea for only $5 additional.  Just ask in the gift shop.

Oatlands Board of Directors and Executive Director Andrea McGimsey are very pleased to welcome Mark J. Schroeter to the property as Head Gardener.  Mark will oversee the maintenance and enhancement of Oatlands’ 200 year old walled garden, as well as that of other public spaces on the property.  Oatlands, a National Trust Historic Site, features 4 acres of terraced, formal gardens as well as 360 acres of preserved open space. 

Mark brings nearly two decades of impressive experience in exclusive and world famous gardens to his new role at Oatlands.  His past work has included the gardens of the U.S. Capitol, and most recently, the gardens and grounds at The Inn at Little Washington. 

Mark also brings great vision, enhanced by his degree in Art History from the University of Wisconsin, and his post-graduate work in horticulture at the USDA Graduate School.  Executive Director Andrea McGimsey said, “We are honored to be working with someone of Mark’s caliber in our very special garden at Oatlands.  We know he will be a wonderful steward of this historic garden and landscape”.

Mark hopes to increase community involvement at Oatlands by providing regular outreach events to local garden clubs and by working in tandem with the Loudoun Master Gardeners.  He stated, “I am thrilled to join the staff at Oatlands.  I am looking forward to engaging our visitors and sharing the history of this unique place”.

10am - 5pm, Rain or Shine

Genuine, quality antiques!

$10 Admission, no pets please.

Antiquesfest is presented by Dordy Fontinel Show Management, Inc. 

See www.DFSHOWS.com for details.

FREE Admission to the Art Show in Oatlands' air-conditioned Carriage House

The thirteenth annual Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Show and Sale will be displayed in Oatlands' historic Carriage House for one more weekend, July 30 and 31. 

The juried show is a Loudoun tradition, featuring local artists and local scenes.  Oatlands' Carriage House is the perfect backdrop for paintings, mixed media pieces, and sculpture.  This year's show features images from the "Journey Through Hallowed Ground" portion of Rt. 15, which beings in Gettysburg, PA and ends at Monticello in Charlottesville, VA.  It will also showcase works from the Mosby Heritage area, and of course from Oatlands itself. 

Works displayed during the show are available for purchase.  The show is free and open to the public during normal hours of operation at Oatlands.   We are open from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 1pm to 5pm on Sundays. 

Oatlands' Greenhouse is 200 years old!  And YOU are invited to the party!

FREE, Fun and Family Friendly! 

WHAT:    200th birthday of Oatlands' Greenhouse
WHERE:  At Oatlands!
WHEN:    2-4pm on June 26th.  Cake served around 3pm

Balloons for children.  Loudoun Master Gardeners will be here to answer your plant questions
and will have a fun activity for kids.  Other vendor sponsors include:  The Art Institute of Washinton, Jerry's Florist, Kidz Act, Bold Bodacious Jewlery, and T. Elizabeth Renich, author of The Shadowcreek Chronicles.

Take a look at our property timeline and read about how the greenhouse worked.  Talk to Oatlands' staff and learn about 18th and 19th century agricultural operations.

Mansion and garden tours half-price all day.  If you've been meaning to come to Oatlands, this is a great chance. 

Come as you are, no RSVP required. 
 

Cake and balloons available on a first come, first served basis.  Supplies are limited.

Oatlands is offering one-day Junior Curator Summer Camps in August.

This one-day program gives children a special opportunity to work behind the scenes at Oatlands with lots of exciting and fun projects.  Children will not only learn how to preserve and protect a museum's collection, but will also learn how to care for collections at home. 

For rising 4th through 7th graders
Offered 9:30am-1:00pm on August 2, August 9 (sold out) , and August 16

$30 per Junior Curator.

Space is limited and reservations are now being accepted.  Please call Kirsten Edwards 703 777 3174 x 103 for more information and to register.

June 21 is the longest day of the year.  Come welcome summer and be refreshed at Oatlands.

On Tuesday, June 21 from 5 until sunset, enjoy Oatlands grounds and gardens free of charge.  In celebration of the longest day of the year, and as a gift to the community, Oatlands is opening its gates to all.  You are welcome to picnic and stroll until sunset.  You may picnic in our picnic grove, on the front lawn of the mansion, on the rear lawn of the mansion, or in the garden.  This is the perfect romantic outing or family field trip to welcome summer. 
Our gift shop will be open.

The fine print:  Bring your own lawn chair or blanket.  No pets, please, and no open flames or grills.  Children must be supervised by an accompanying adult.  We ask that you "leave no trace" on our beautiful grounds or in our garden.  Trash bins will be provided, and bathroom facilities will be available.

The Boys of Summer have gone.... but what memories!

On June 12, Oatlands was home to three games of base ball, played by the rules of the Civil War era.  The crowd was taken back in time to a Sunday long ago, when the object of the game was action rather than outs.  Loudoun Preservation Society did an amazing job of organizing the event and all proceeds will benefit the LPS grant fund. There were no gloves, no helmets or catching gear, and the uniforms were authentic wool replicas. 

Oatlands has its own connection to professional baseball.  Conrad "Nick" Powell Carter, born at Oatlands in 1879, was the son of George Carter II and his wife Kate Powell Carter.  He was a pitcher for the Philadelphia Athletics in 1908, starting the opening day game for the legendary manager Connie Mack.  After spending 1908 in the majors, he continued his career in the minors, playing until 1913. 

Click here to read more information about baseball in Loudoun, yesterday and today, on the VisitLoudoun blog!

Click here to read about 19th Century Baseball Day at Oatlands, presented by Loudoun Preservation Socitey!

Click here to see a nice photo montage from Ashburn Patch.

Ever visited Oatlands and thought, “I want to work there!”?  Well now is your chance!  Oatlands is looking for Tour Guides.

Thank you from Oatlands!
Jazz & Juleps was a wonderful event.


Use of artwork courtesy of John Mazza
Oatlands thanks all our sponsors, raffle and auction donors!
Thank you to WUSA9 Chief Meteorologist Topper Shutt, Honorary Chair!

Oatlands extends its deepest gratitude to our sponsors.

Major Event Sponsors:
The History Channel
RSVP Catering
Capital Party Rentals

Program Sponsor:
Alpine Sanitation, LLC

Entertainment Sponsors:
Music in the tent by The Miles Stiebel Trio, provided by MSE Productions.
Jazz Piano in the Mansion by Cindy Cummins.

Thank you to our raffle and auction donors!
Corcoran Vineyards
Palio Ristorante Italiano
Skylar Hill Confections
Larry Miller Window Washing
Creighton Farms Golf Club
Seasoned to Taste Catering
Fortessa Outlet Store
The Dandelion Patch
The Stonewall Jackson Hotel
American Shakespeare Center
The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership
The Gettysburg Hotel

Tina Gulland
9/7/48-5/11/11

Oatlands Board Chair Tina Gulland died on Wednesday, May 11 of metastatic lung cancer.  The community of board, staff and friends at Oatlands mourns her passing.  Tina brought clarity of purpose, great skill, energy and enthusiasm to her work at Oatlands and to everything she did.  She led Oatlands through a time of economic hardship without sacrificing the integrity and mission of this important National Trust Historic Site.  

Tina's positive vision for Oatlands' future will continue to inspire us as we carry on with the essential work of land conservation, historic preservation and education.  We honor Tina Gulland and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends and the countless people who were touched by her light.

Click here for a link to the Washington Post obituary.

Announcing the Thirteenth Anniversary

Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Show & Sale!

July 3 – July 31, 2011
Preview Party – Sunday, July 3, Oatlands Carriage House

Oatlands announces a Call to Artists for the Thirteenth Anniversary Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Show and Sale.  This annual Art Show takes place in the historic Carriage House at Oatlands, A National Trust Historic Site.  Throughout the season, we host artists on the property to paint, photograph and seek inspiration for their work from the picturesque beauty of Oatlands.

The show begins with a preview party on July 3rd for artists, patrons and Friends of Oatlands (by invitation).  Participating artists are invited to the event free of charge. Once again, we will seek donations at the preview party to help support Oatlands' mission.

Click the following link for the registration forms for your submissions http://www.oatlands.org/images/news/call to artists for 2011.pdf .  Please include these forms with your slides or photographs for the jury process along with your $30 fee.  As in the past, 25% of the purchase price of pieces sold will be retained by Oatlands as a fundraiser. Submissions are due by May 27.

Geographical regions for this year's show will include Oatlands, the Mosby Heritage Area, the Journey Through Hallowed Ground corridor, Washington, DC, New York City, New Mexico, France and the United Kingdom. In honor of our Carter Barn restoration project, we particularly invite art with a barn theme.

All media of artwork will be accepted, including but not limited to, paintings, photographs, ceramics, textiles and sculpture, as long as it meets the above criteria.  The show will be juried by representatives of the local art community.  As in years past, we will have a section highlighting student (under age 18) artwork.

The show will continue through July 31, 2011.  We look forward to your participation and hope you will encourage your fellow artists to participate in this wonderful show.

Sincerely,

The Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Committee

Oatlands is now open to the public daily for the 2011 season.  We are open Monday-Saturday from 10am until 5pm and Sunday 1pm until 5pm.  The last mansion tour of each day is 4pm, and grounds close to the public at 5pm.

Come on out and see what Oatlands has to offer in the 2011 Season, including our new historical exhibit in the greenhouse.  Learn about our programs for scouts, our summer camp programs, our special events and tours throughout the year.

200 years of history in Loudoun's backyard, with new programs and new things! 

And THANK YOU to all who attended Tunes and Tours on March 27.  An especially big THANK YOU goes out to our sponsors:

Thank you to our musical sponsors The Polka Dots and Kerry McCool!

Thank you to our Business Sponsors for this event:
Corcoran Vineyards (Their new brewery opens in May)
Larry Miller Window Cleaning Services (Offering free quotes online--recently written up in Washingtonian Magazine!)
Loudoun Preservation Society (Learn more about Vintage Base Ball Day at Oatlands on June 12)
Buddy Saunders Flooring (One of our finest flooring companies, the Saunders family has served Loudoun for 40 years!)
7 Company Weight Loss (Clients rave about the results!)

Please support our business sponsors!

Oatlands will celebrate the life of BJ Mahoney on Friday March 18, 2011 at 3:30pm with a memorial reception in the Carriage House.  BJ was part of the heart and soul of Oatlands and spent nearly two decades in her service.  We honor his contributions and mourn his passing.

Everyone who knew BJ loved his stories and his friendly welcome.  He never refused to help someone in need.  He leaves a hole in our hearts and an empty place in our Oatlands family circle.

BJ Mahoney
March 18, 1941-March 11, 2011

On Friday February 25, Oatlands was proud to host a very special press conference.  Virginia's Secretary of Transportation, Sean T. Connaughton and the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership announced plans to create a living memorial to our county's Civil War dead--a staggering 620,000 men.  Under the plan, a tree will be planted along the Rt. 15 corridor from Gettysburg to Charlottesville for each of the dead. 

Click here to read Leesburg Today's coverage of this remarkable announcement.

Oatlands, known for its remarkable collection of specimen trees, was a fitting location for this press conference. 

The December art show opens today!  Visitors may view and purchase artwork in the carriage house during normal business hours.  Consider a gift of art.

Due to high demand, we have added three additional December teas on December 26, 27, and 29.  Please call today for reservations and availability.

Our new Lamplight Tours start Friday, December 3.  Gather your family and visit us for a festive holiday experience.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Oatlands!

Oatlands' Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrea McGimsey as Executive Director.

Andrea will oversee all operations at this National Trust Historic site.  She possesses a strong preservation and fundraising background, along with deep roots in the local community.  She was born and raised in Northern Virginia and returned here to live more than 10 years ago.  She has a grounding in business and finance coupled with a love of history.  Andrea graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a bachelor of science and later completed her masters of professional studies at New York University.

Andrea commented "I am honored and delighted to serve as the next executive director of Oatlands, the crown jewel of historic Loudoun County.  I look forward to preserving and sharing its history with my fellow citizens throughout the capital region and the nation.  There is no better place to enjoy the spectacular beauty of Virginia's rolling hills."

Andrea will take the helm at Oatlands in late November.

Oatlands Board of Directors has formed a search committee to select a successor to long time Executive Director David Y. Boyce.  The job description is available by clicking HERE.

The Board will accept cover letters and resumes in Word or PDF format by email only to board@oatlands.org.  No phone calls please.  Deadline for submission is September 15, 2010.  Oatlands is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The submission deadline for applications has passed.  We thank you for your interest in Oatlands.

September 9 and 16 Oatlands after Five
Gardens @ Sunset

Enjoy this unique opportunity to visit Oatlands after hours.  Wander the garden, or just spread a blanket on the front lawn, relax and enjoy the music.  A perfect way to start your weekend a little early.

5:30pm-7:30pm

Beverages and snacks available for purchase provided by Corcoran Vineyards. 
You are also welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy**.

Guitarist/vocalist John Ware featured on Sept. 9, playing old and new favorites.
Sept. 16 enjoy blues, rock and folk sounds with Kerry McCool.

site ticket sales: Admission $12, $6 Oatlands Friends. Children under 6 free.

**No alcohol may be brought onto Oatlands grounds. Wine may be purchased on site from Corcoran Vineyards.
Feel free to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair!  But no pets please. 

If it rains, the concert will be held in Oatlands' Carriage House.

The community of board, staff and friends of Oatlands deeply mourns the loss of Anita Graf White.  We extend our deepest sympathies to her husband, Rev. Elijah B. White III, her family and her large circle of friends. 

Mrs. White was a long time Oatlands board member (1980-2005), serving as chair from 2004-2005, and going on to become a director emeritus until her death.  She was instrumental in the master planning process for Oatlands, which has resulted in many preservation successes on the property.  Her passion for preservation included the restoration of the 1821 Carter brick bank barn which begins this month.

Mrs. White graduated from the Madeira School in McLean, VA and Vassar College.  Following her graduation from Vassar, she moved to Loudoun County where she did volunteer work organizing overseas conferences for the Airlie Foundation in Warrenton, VA.  She was a founding board member of Loudoun Therapeutic Riding.

A life-long and accomplished horsewoman, Mrs. White began riding at the age of six and was elected Joint Master of Foxhounds of the Loudoun Hunt in 1970.  She served in that capacity for most of the next 35 years.  She also served as treasurer for The Church of Our Saviour from 1972-1997.

Anita Graf White loved Loudoun County.  She loved the land and the history and worked tirelessly to preserve both.  We owe her much and her loss is keenly felt.

Oatlands is proud to host author T. Elizabeth Renich on Sunday, June 13 from 2-3:30pm.

Ms. Renich will be in Oatlands Carriage House to talk about The Shadowcreek Chronicles, a beautifully researched historical fiction series set against the backdrop of the Civil War. 

Ms. Renich did much of her research right here in Northern Virginia and lives near Leesburg, VA.  Her work is historically accurate without being dry.  She brings to life a pivotal moment in American history through the eyes of her young heroine, Salina Hastings.  Salina must learn the hard lessons of young adulthood while in the midst of the bloodiest conflict ever to touch the American landscape.

Books will be available for sale, and Ms. Renich will be pleased to sign them for you. 

$5 admission charge per person at the door.

Oatlands hosted our Spring Fundraiser, Jazz & Juleps on April 25. 

Thank you to all who supported the event and helped us raise much needed funds for Oatlands! 

Next year's Spring Fundraiser will take place on Sunday, May 15, 2011.  Mark your calendars!

Click "Read More" below to see pictures of the event.

Wine-Aroma! is Sunday May 23. 

NEW for the 2010 Season--Oatlands after Five proudly presents Wine-Aroma!

Have you ever wondered exactly how wine experts identify flavors within a wine?

Join us in the Oatlands Carriage House for a unique, entertaining and educational event.  The fabulous Mary Watson-DeLauder, award-winning sommelier, headlines this afternoon of fun.  This taste identification competition comes complete with prizes and will leave you better informed.  Most importantly, you'll walk away with a new sense of fun about wine!

May 23, 2010 at 4pm.  $40 per person, call 703 777 3174 x110 for reservations or book online!  20% discount for purchase of six or more tickets. 

May 16- Book Signing and Talk by Nan Chase
Author of Eat Your Yard! Edible trees, shrubs, vines, herbs and flowers for your landscape

1:00pm-2:30pm in Oatlands Carriage House
Admission fee at door: $5 per person

Oatlands Gift Shop will have books available for purchase.

Oatlands Season Opening Party March 21  

Tunes and Tours!

Come back to Oatlands, or come for the first time.  We'll be open for a special season opening preview from 1pm-4pm on Sunday, March 21.  

Local bluegrass group The Polka Dots will help us celebrate with music in the Carriage House!  They've recently played First Night Leesburg, and they opened for Furnace Mountain at the Watermelon Park Fest in Berryville.  We're so glad to have them and their upbeat sound!

Tours on the half hour.  Tickets at the door.  
$10 Adults, $7 Children 6-16, $9 Seniors.

 

What do you remember most about your last visit to Oatlands?  Perhaps the spectacular sight of the garden in the spring, or the rustle of a breeze through amber trees in the fall.  The pleasure of a hot cup of tea and good conversation in the Carriage House?  Or did you dance around the floor at a special event?  Is what you remember the feel of a child's hand in yours and the look of wonderment on a young face as you explored together?

Oatlands is in the business of memories--making them and preserving them.  Consider how few cultural and historical resources remain to link Northern Virginia's present with its past.  Once lost, those links can never be restored.  It is our task, working together, to preserve these precious resources for the future... just as Oatlands has been a gift to us from the past.

All of us at Oatlands work for a balanced budget with zero debt by year's end.  You have helped us accomplish this goal each year--and you help us maintain our fiscal discipline.  Oatlands must raise at least $1 million locally every year to fulfill our mission and fund our programs.  Your gift today will help us on our way.

The money we raise stays right here on the Oatlands property--right here in Loudoun County.  Your gifts support Oatlands mission and projects such as:
Educational programs for scouts and school groups
Junior curator summer camp series
Support for scholars through the Douglas W. Hunt Legacy for Historical Studies
Our ongoing efforts to preserve, protect and interpret the unique natural, historical and cultural assets of the property here at Oatlands
Restoration of the garden Tea House
Painting of the exterior of the Mansion
Ongoing preservation of the Greenhouse, the second oldest in the United States
Beginning the restoration of the Carter era brick bank barn - the first step in increasing our interpretation of Loudoun's unique agricultural history

In partnership with you, we'll be able to preserve our country's heritage and make new memories for the next generation.

With deepest gratitude,  
Tina Gulland, Chair, Oatlands Board of Directors

Oatlands is proud to announce our 2010 Calendar of Events!  Click Here!

Oatlands has something for everyone.  A wide variety of events is available throughout the year, from family friendly music to sophisticated wine and cocktail events.

We're proud to launch our new series "Oatlands after Five"!  Events in this series let you experience a different Oatlands, after hours and full of fun. 

And perennial favorites are back! Call for your tea reservations early!  Teas are such a favorite and they sell out quickly! 

Robert H. Smith, philanthropist and Oatlands benefactor for whom the Robert H. Smith Preserve at Oatlands is named, has passed away.  The staff and board of Oatlands mourn his passing.

Join us for one of the most popular events of the year!  This year's Christmas celebration will focus on the tradition of weddings at the mansion.  During the holiday season, there are a number of wedding gowns from different eras on display.

The Oatlands commemorative brick path is a special and unique way to honor a person or remember an occasion.  The pathway has been filling quickly as blank bricks are changed to inscribed bricks.   

Are you searching for the perfect birthday, anniversary or holiday gift for a family member or friend? Perhaps you wish to remember special people in your life with a gift in their honor or memory, or memorialize an Oatlands wedding. The commemorative brick program at Oatlands offers you this unique gift-giving opportunity.

Visit Oatlands during this 2009 Holiday season! 

Welcome to Oatlands Historic House and Gardens!  We are open daily for tours, garden strolls, and wonderful shopping.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Oatlands! We have had many requests for Mrs. Carter's Gingerbread recipe, which we traditionally highlight at Oatlands this time of year.  Enjoy!