The History of Mount Hebron
Mount Hebron, a 125-acre equestrian farm in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, is about 90 minutes from Washington, D.C. Originally owned by George Washington, it was leased to Joseph Winsor in 1785 [1]. Winsor built the original log home, now known as the Winsor Tavern, which is still accessible within the Mount Hebron Lodge. Washington personally detailed the lease [2], marking the property's original 172 acres with natural features like oak and hickory trees [3].
The lease required Winsor to construct a log dwelling with a stone or brick chimney and a barn, as well as plant an orchard and maintain a meadow [4]. However, Winsor struggled to meet the financial terms and relinquished the property to Howell Lewis, Washington’s nephew, in 1791 [5].
According to stories passed down from early owners, Mount Hebron's front lawn was the site of a skirmish during the Civil War between Union soldiers and Mosby’s Rangers, Confederate guerrilla fighters. The Rangers successfully defended the property, sparing it from the widespread destruction in the area.
Winsor’s original log cabin, preserved through the centuries, remains a testament to Mount Hebron's history, surrounded by the descendants of the trees Washington once used to define the estate.
Who We Are Today
Mount Hebron Farm, now an equine facility and event venue, is nestled in the heart of Berryville, Virginia and offers a unique blend of historic country charm, equestrian flavor, and stunning event space. As a horse facility, our farm features spacious, well-maintained paddocks, stalls, and picturesque riding trails covering our 125 acres. We cater to individuals and families looking for partial retirement and self care board for their equine pals, but welcome any inquiries. As an event venue, Mount Hebron provides a breathtaking backdrop for weddings, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations with friends or family. With our versatile event space and an innovative team, we can create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. At Mount Hebron Farm, we’re passionate about creating memorable experiences – whether you’re riding with us, attending an event, or simply enjoying the beauty of our family farm. We invite you to explore the possibilities and become part of the family.
About the Owners
Jon and Cammie Fausey are the proud owners of Mount Hebron Farm. Having purchased the farm in 2020, they are excited to share its timeless beauty with couples seeking an unforgettable wedding venue, as well as with horse owners looking for exceptional boarding facilities.
With a deep-rooted connection to the land, Cammie, a Clarke County native, grew up on an equine farm, immersed in the world of horses and rural life. This upbringing, coupled with her parents' own wedding venue, has provided her with invaluable insights into the hospitality industry and fueled her passion for creating a welcoming atmosphere where every guest feels valued and leaves with cherished memories.
Jon brings his own expertise to Mount Hebron Farm with a love for farm management and a meticulous eye for detail in all things farm-related. He ensures the grounds are impeccably maintained, creating a picturesque backdrop for weddings and a thriving environment for horses.
Together, Jon and Cammie are committed to providing exceptional care and service for both their human and equine guests. Their family mission is to love and care for those around them, making every event at Mount Hebron Farm a celebration of love, joy, and community. For their equine boarders, Jon and Cammie envision a haven where horses thrive in a relaxed and enriching atmosphere, enjoying spacious pastures, well-maintained facilities, and the freedom to socialize and explore.
Historical Resources
The Papers of George Washington Digital Edition, ed. Theodore J. Crackel. Charlottesville: University of Virginia Press, Rotunda, 2008. http://financial.gwpapers.org/?q=content/windsor-winsor-winzor-joseph
From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 28 July 1785,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/04-03-02-0148 . [Original source: The Papers of George Washington, Confederation Series, vol. 3, 19 May 1785–31 March 1786, ed. W. W. Abbot. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1994, pp. 159–162.] https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/04-03-02-0148
George Washington sent a letter from Mount Vernon on July 28th 1785 to his rental agent Bataile Muse (oldest son of Colonel George Muse, who served with George Washington during the French and Indian War), which indicated that George Washington met with Mr. Winsor to come to an agreement on the lease terms; Washington wrote up the lease himself and sent it to Bataile Muse.
According to that original agreement, the land (originally 172 acres) was marked out by “a white oak and red oak saplings in a hollow...to two hickory and red oak saplings in a valley”, multiple “stakes,” and lastly “to a red oak a white oak and hickory.”
Washington required Winsor to plant “an orchard of one hundred good winter apple trees at forty feet distance away from each other and one hundred and fifty peach tress [trees].... well pruned, fenced in and secured from horses cattle and other creatures that may hurt them.” Lastly, Washington required that “five acres...of the said demised [leased] land shall be sown with and laid down in good English grass and the same or the like quantity of acres of grass of the same kind on some other part of the said demised [leased] land shall always...be kept in meadow well fenced in and secured.”
From George Washington to Battaile Muse, 6 February 1791,” Founders Online, National Archives, https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/05-07-02-0187 [Original source: The Papers of George Washington, Presidential Series, vol. 7, 1 December 1790–21 March 1791, ed. Jack D. Warren, Jr. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1998, p. 320.] https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/05-07-02-0187
As outlined in a letter to Mr. Muse, George Washington on February 6th, 1791, said that “It has been intimated to me, that Mr Windsor, a tenant of mine, wishes to relinguish [relinquish] the Lease which he retains for a part of my land...and as my Sister Lewis appears anxious to get it for the purpose of concentrating her property adjoining and agrees to take it upon the same terms by which it is held at present; this will explain to you, my approbation of her proposal, provided, Mr. Windsor is still disposed to surrender his occupancy. I am, Sir, your Most Obt Servt, George Washington.”