Goodstone Property:
A Historical Overview
The journey of our cherished country inn and estate to becoming the renowned Goodstone Inn & Restaurant of today.
Let's explore the rich history of the Goodstone estate, a property that embodies three centuries of Virginia's heritage.
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The Founding Families: Discover the stories of the Leith, Goodwin, Warburg, and Betts families and their lasting impact.
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Architectural Evolution: Explore the estate's key structures, from the historic Leith Cemetery to the elegant Manor House and repurposed farm buildings.
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A Living Legacy: Learn how Goodstone has transformed from a colonial settlement into a world-class country inn, preserving its unique character every step of the way.
The History of Goodstone Inn | A Timeline
2000s
The property is fully developed into The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, with the opening of the Conservatory on October 12th, 2017.
1939
Warburg acquires the Goodwin tract, creating Snake Hill Farm.
1940s
A heated swimming pool is built, incorporating the old mansion's facade.
1973
Frederick Warburg passes away.
1996
The Warburg heirs sell the property to The Betts Family.
1998
The Betts Family embarks on transforming the property into a charming inn.
c. 1745
James Leith emigrates from Scotland and settles in Loudoun County.
1759
James Leith marries Mary Goram.
1915
The property is sold to the Goodwin family and renamed Goodstone Farm.
c. 1937
The Goodwin mansion burns down.
1934
Frederick Warburg purchases neighboring land and builds the Manor House.
The Leith Family (18th–19th Century): The First Settlers
Pioneering Roots
The Leith family, led by Scottish immigrant James Leith, established themselves in the Middleburg area around 1745. They became deeply integrated into Loudoun County life.
Lasting Legacy
The family's influence is still visible today, with local place names like Leithton and Leithtown honoring their presence. They were prominent landowners, acquiring the notable Farmer's Delight plantation in 1856.
The Leith Cemetery
A tangible link to the past, the family's private burial ground is located on the Goodstone property. It serves as the final resting place for patriarch James Leith and other family members.
The Leith Cemetery, nestled on the grounds of the Goodstone Inn, stands as a poignant historical landmark. It offers a glimpse into 18th-century burial traditions, while honoring the memory of the land's earliest settlers.
The Goodwin Family (20th Century): Naming the Estate
A New Era
In 1915, the property was acquired by the Goodwin family, who renamed it Goodstone Farm.
Agricultural Development
They established a working farm, added a dairy barn and created the Goodstone Dairy, which became a central feature of the estate.
A Tragic Event
The original Goodwin mansion was destroyed in a fire around 1937.
Enduring Name
Despite the fire, the Goodwin family's legacy lives on through the "Goodstone" name, which the property retains today.
The Goodwin mansion, once lost to fire, has given rise to the iconic Ivy Wall, which now stands in its place. Over the years, this lush, green backdrop has become a cherished setting for countless wedding ceremonies and family celebrations. The Ivy Wall serves as a timeless symbol of love's resilience and enduring beauty.
The Warburg Family (1930s–1996):
A Grand Transformation
A Visionary Owner
In 1934, Frederick Warburg, a prominent investment banker, purchased land and built the stone Manor House that stands today.
Expansion and Renaming
He acquired the neighboring Goodwin tract in 1939, consolidating the properties into a new estate he named Snake Hill Farm.
Elegant Additions
Converted the ivy-covered ruins of the Goodwin mansion into a striking backdrop for a heated swimming pool. They kept the property as both a horse and dairy farm, combining tradition with countryside leisure.
A Lasting Impact
The family's contributions significantly shaped the estate's modern structures and elegant landscape before their heirs sold it in 1996.
Discover more intriguing facts and information about the Warburg era below.
The Warburg Era
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A photograph of the Manor House sitting room during the Warburg family's ownership.
Frederick M. Warburg ​
October 14, 1897-
July 10, 1973
An investment banker active in civic and philanthropic efforts, including the Boy Scouts of America and the American Museum of Natural History.
Wilma Warburg
August 15, 1903 -​
June 25, 1993
Mrs. Warburg was born in Rochester and graduated from Smith College. She worked in volunteer efforts during World War II, and after the war worked in management at Macy's.
Views of North America​
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The dining room of the Manor House features an exquisite Zuber wallpaper mural, showcasing the early 19th-century French design, "Views of North America."
The Betts Family (1996–Present): A New Vision
Modern Hospitality
In 1996, the Betts family purchased the estate, beginning its transformation into a country inn.
A Destination
is Born
The Betts family expanded the initial bed and breakfast concept into a full-service destination.
The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant
Their vision culminated in the establishment of The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, combining the estate's history with refined hospitality and fine dining.
Continuing the Legacy
The Betts family brought the property into the modern era, preserving its historic character while creating a world-renowned destination.