Smoke House
Woodlawn is happy to announce the fall ‘09 restoration of the 1803 Smoke House. Located immediately to the north of the main residence, this brick outbuilding was designed (like the main house) by architect of the U.S. Capitol, Dr. William Thornton, and constructed ca. 1803. It was used to smoke ham and other meats for storage and consumption on the estate.
Restoration will include replacement of the wood shake roof in historically accurate materials and methods; repointing of the brick; repair to decorative plaster panels and repair of interior wood beams.
Upon the project’s completion, plantings and landscape elements in the adjacent pond garden area (perfect for weddings and events!) will be enhanced.
The project was designed and will be managed by Davis Buckley Architects & Planners of Washington DC, Davis A. Buckley FAIA, principal. The Graham Gund Architect of The National Trust for Historic Preservation, Barbara Campagna FAIA, LEED is overseeing the work for the National Trust.
We thank the following sponsors and donors for making this important project possible:
The Alexandria Association
The Historic Sites Fund of The National Trust for Historic Preservation
The Allegheny Foundation
Nelly’s Needlers
The National Society of Colonial Dames of America, Virginia Chapter, Washington, DC Committee
There was a time a few years back where I would visit Woodlawn every wee-end for 6 weeks. The home is perfect and it only makes it better to know that is a part of Mount Vernon. I wish I could fine more information about Nelly Custis and her life.
By: susan michael on September 20, 2009
at 10:35 am
There is a wonderful biography of Nelly Custis for sale at Mt. Vernon.
By: Cynthia Evans on January 9, 2010
at 5:48 pm
Have you read the correspondence between Nellie and her childhood friend? They began corresponding when both girls were approximately 12 years old up until Nellie passed away. If you are interested in the book, let me know and I’ll find it at home and e-mail you the title.
By: pam murrow on February 22, 2010
at 2:16 pm
I have enjoyed visiting both Mount Vernon and Woodlawn over the past 30 years. I was wondering why Woodlawn doesn’t receive the same support that Mount Vernon does….since Woodlawn is a part of the legacy of George Washington.
By: Vicky Wall on December 19, 2009
at 9:14 pm
Glad to see restoration informationon the site- I got married at Woodlawn in 2000 and having been disappointed about the upkeep after going back a few times to reminisce with my wife- Its nice to read that things are being cared for again- We will certainly have to come back and check things out- What a great place!
By: Scott montgomery on February 3, 2010
at 2:34 pm