HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK 2024

Information Provided by the Garden Club of Virginia

LYNCHBURG TOUR
Tuesday April 23, 2024 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visitors will get an inspiring glimpse into beautiful houses and gardens of five homes in Lynchburg’s Boonsboro neighborhood. There’s something for every visitor — from a Spanish Revival home to a Cape Cod to an English Tudor – all built between 1923-1924. This year also features Virginia Episcopal School, with access to the Headmaster’s home, chapel and garden. Camp Kum-Ba-Yah Nature Center will offer conservation instruction and nature walks as well. 

Photos Courtesy of Amanda Smithson

119 OAKWOOD PLACE
Owners: Lisa & David Cresson
This Spanish Revival home was designed in 1924 by the esteemed architect Aubrey Chesterman, known for influencing designs in the Court House Hill Historic District. Initially built for Robert and Maidie Horton, this residence embodies timeless elegance. Approaching the house, a grand entrance flanked by meticulously trimmed holly hedges leads to a double-door, ironwork entryway showcasing the Spanish Revival architectural style. With its original design, intricate details, and a collection of family heirlooms and art, every room is a step back in time, reflecting generations of cherished memories. 

1555 LINK ROAD
Owners: Patricia & Thomas Moore 
This white clapboard Cape Cod, framed by a picturesque white picket fence, was constructed in 1923 for William Gibson McGehee, Sr., and his wife Helen Gray Mahood McGehee, parents of modern dancer Helen McGehee. The architect was Alexander Blount Mahood, ensuring its architectural distinction. In 1930, the McGehees entrusted the property’s care to Mr. and Mrs. Lawson W. Turner, who recognized its potential and engaged the services of the distinguished landscape architect Charles Gillette of Richmond. While the original Gillette garden has gracefully aged over almost a century, the current owners have thoughtfully created a summer garden from its blueprint. The interior is bright and traditionally adorned with oriental rugs, original oil paintings, antiques and pieces handcrafted by the owner. 

4012 PEAKLAND PLACE
Owners: Liz & Scott Wade 
This English Tudor home was designed by J. Everette Fauber Jr., an architect who helped restore Point of Honor and reconstruct the Appomattox Courthouse. It was built for Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Forehand in 1923. The house was constructed using antique local bricks and features three chimneys, original oak doors, shutters, floors and wainscoting. Both the house and garage have uniquely patterned slate roofs. It is furnished with family pieces and antiques, as well as newer pieces. The backyard features pollinator beds and original American boxwoods. Native plants abound, earning the gardens a Certified Pollinator Habitat designation from Blue Ridge Conservation. 

400 VES ROAD
Occupants: Anne & Garth Ainslie 
The Robert Carter Jett Memorial Head of School House was dedicated in 1954 as the Diocesan Memorial to the late Bishop Jett, founder and first Headmaster of Virginia Episcopal School and the first Bishop of the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia. The classic Pendleton Clark façade belies the modern interior that is a hub for students, parents, faculty, trustees and visitors. In 2020, the house underwent substantial renovations to prepare for its 13th Head of School, Garth Ainslie, who grew up in the house during his father Sandy Ainslie’s tenure as VES’ eighth Headmaster. 

1101 GREENWAY COURT
Owners: Claudia & Mark Stubstad
This traditional home was built in 1949 and has been transformed by the owners, offering a unique twist on the classic Lynchburg Colonial Revival style. In 2022, every facet of this property underwent renovation, creating a living masterpiece that reflects the artistic design talent of its owners. Claudia, a self-taught artist, loves creating mixed-media collage artwork, which is displayed throughout the home. The interior is bright and vibrant, with colorful textiles and wallpaper, elevating the works of art. The furniture and accessories reflect Mark’s extensive travels in Asia. 

CAMP KUM-BA-YAH
4415 BOONSBORO ROAD 
Nestled in a 47-acre urban forest with 42 acres in a conservation easement, Camp Kum-Ba-Yah (CKBY) Nature Center is a naturalized play and educational space for public enjoyment. Blue Ridge Conservation will supply information on native plants, pollinators and chemical-free yards, and local vendors will have plants and gardening products available for purchase. 

Tickets are available online and at select local businesses: $50 in advance, $60 day of and $15 single-site. Boxed lunches are available for pre-order. Note: This is a park-and-walk tour; walking shoes are recommended. ✦   

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT VAGARDENWEEK.ORG