Uncovering the Rich History of Goodstone Inn

Step onto the grounds of Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, and you are immediately enveloped by a sense of timeless elegance. The rolling hills of Virginia’s horse and wine country, the refined architecture, and the tranquil atmosphere all speak to a legacy that spans nearly three centuries. This cherished estate is more than just a luxurious retreat. It is a living storybook, with each chapter shaped by the families who called this land home. From its colonial beginnings to its present-day status as a world-class destination, the history of Goodstone is a captivating journey through time.

The Goodwin Mansion in its original state, prior to the tragic 1939 fire.

Join us as we explore the fascinating heritage of the Goodstone estate, uncovering the stories of the families who shaped its identity and transformed it into the exquisite haven it is today.

History of Goodstone Inn

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The Colonial Roots: The Leith Family (18th–19th Century)

The story of Goodstone begins in the mid-1700s with the Leith family. James Leith, a Scottish immigrant, settled in the Middleburg area around 1745, establishing deep roots in Loudoun County. The Leiths became prominent figures in the community, and their legacy endures in local place names like Leithton and Leithtown. They were landowners who understood the rhythm of the Virginia countryside, and their presence is still felt on the estate today.

The Leith Cemetery at Goodstone Inn & Restaurant.

One of the most tangible connections to this pioneering era is the Leith family cemetery, nestled on a quiet hilltop along one of our scenic hiking trails. This private burial ground, where patriarch James Leith is believed to rest, offers a poignant glimpse into 18th-century rural life. Before public cemeteries were common, families created these intimate resting places on their own land, marking a profound connection between generations and the soil they cultivated. Its preservation at Goodstone provides a rare physical link to the settlers who first shaped this beautiful landscape.

A New Name and an Agricultural Vision: The Goodwin Family (20th Century)

In 1915, the property entered a new era when it was acquired by the Goodwin family. They

renamed the estate Goodstone Farm and transformed it into a thriving agricultural enterprise. The Goodwins added a dairy barn and established the Goodstone Dairy, which became a central part of the farm's operations. It was their vision that gave the property the enduring "Goodstone" name it carries today.

This elevation represents the front of the Goodwin Mansion, overlooking the pasture.

Tragedy struck around 1937, when a fire destroyed the Goodwin mansion. While the original structure was lost, its story did not end there. The ivy-covered façade that remained would later be given a new purpose, becoming one of the most iconic and romantic features of the estate. The Goodwin family’s time here solidified the property's identity and laid the groundwork for its future transformations.

An Era of Grand Transformation: The Warburg Family (1930s–1996)

The next chapter in Goodstone’s history was written by Frederick and Wilma Warburg, a couple whose influence brought a new level of sophistication and elegance to the estate. Frederick, a prominent New York investment banker and philanthropist, began acquiring land here in 1934, building the magnificent stone Manor House, which stands as the crown jewel of the inn today. In 1939, he purchased the adjacent Goodwin tract, consolidating the properties into an expansive estate he called Snake Hill Farm.

The Warburgs possessed a remarkable vision for blending history with modern leisure. Instead of clearing away the ruins of the Goodwin mansion, Frederick transformed the ivy-clad façade into a dramatic backdrop for a heated swimming pool—an ingenious touch of design that honors the past while embracing the present. This feature, now known as the iconic Ivy Wall, has become a cherished setting for weddings and celebrations, a symbol of resilience and enduring beauty.

Gentleman from the Warburg family riding horses on the estate. Date unknown.

Under the Warburgs' care, the property continued as both a horse and dairy farm, a perfect setting for enjoying Virginia’s foxhunting and countryside pursuits. Their impeccable taste and appreciation for refined living shaped the estate's elegant landscape and modern structures, leaving an indelible mark that guests can still appreciate in the exquisite details of the Manor House and its surroundings.

A New Vision of Hospitality: The Betts Family (1996–Present)

After the Warburg heirs sold the property in 1996, a new vision for its future began to take shape. The Betts family purchased the estate, embarking on a journey to transform it into a destination for gracious hospitality. What started as a charming bed and breakfast soon blossomed into something more.

Guided by Mark and Shelley Slade Betts, the estate was thoughtfully developed into The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, a full-service luxury inn that seamlessly blends its rich history with refined comfort and exceptional fine dining. This final transformation honors the legacy of all the families who came before, while creating a welcoming sanctuary for discerning travelers from around the world. The opening of The Conservatory in 2017 marked another milestone, further enhancing the guest experience. Today, the Betts family continues to uphold the property's heritage, ensuring that every stay at Goodstone is a unique and unforgettable escape.

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History of Goodstone Inn

History of Goodstone Inn: A Living Legacy

The journey of the Goodstone estate is a rich tapestry woven from the lives and visions of four distinct families. From the pioneering spirit of the Leiths to the agricultural enterprise of the Goodwins, the sophisticated elegance of the Warburgs, and the welcoming hospitality of the Betts family, each era has left its unique imprint.

The Manor House at Goodstone Inn.

We invite you to experience this history firsthand. Walk the trails where the Leiths once trod, admire the Ivy Wall that rose from the ashes of the Goodwin mansion, and relax in the Manor House built by the Warburgs. Discover the story of Goodstone, where centuries of Virginia heritage converge to create an unparalleled luxury retreat.

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