UNIQUE FEATURES OF RIVER FARM
A short drive along the scenic George Washington Parkway from Alexandria, Virginia, River Farm showcases colorful flower displays and many distinct features only found at this historic location.
Perennial Borders
A collection of petite gardens provides a dynamic array of color and intrigue year-round. Within each section of the garden, plants are meticulously curated based on their color, season of bloom, size, and texture. They have also been chosen for their resilience against diseases and pests, ensuring lasting beauty and vitality.
White House Gates
At one end of the Perennial Border stands a significant piece of history: the historic White House Gates. These gates were initially installed in 1819 at the White House as part of the reconstruction efforts following the War of 1812. They stood for more than 120 years at the northeast entrance to the White House before being removed during a renovation project. The gates found a second home on the River Farm property and remained in relative obscurity for more than 50 years. In 2004, the Society undertook restoration and conservation of the gates to return them to their original splendor.
Manor House
The historic Manor House at River Farm serves as the headquarters for the Society’s Administrative and Membership offices. This home was once lived in by Tobias Lear, George Washington’s personal secretary. Its lower level welcomes the public, featuring a charming parlor boasting breathtaking views of the river, along with a beautiful ballroom. These rooms frequently host rotating exhibitions by local artists. The manor house is also a sought-after venue for weddings, corporate events, meetings, and memorials, offering rental options.
The plantings in front of the manor house consist predominantly of native shrubs and trees, including Allegheny serviceberry (Amelanchier laevis), fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus), dwarf fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenii), and oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia). An underplanting of mixed perennials and annuals provides seasonal color, and is especially eye-catching in spring when bulbs are in bloom.
The bluestone terrace beside the manor house is framed on one side by a stately hedge of English boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’) containing specimens nearly 100 years old. Perennial and annual display beds behind the manor house provide seasonal color and interest.
Children’s Nature Library and Reading Room
A dynamic space for young readers pre-K to 6th grade, the Children’s Nature Library and Reading Room features over 1,700 children’s books focused on nature and gardening. River Farm’s Children’s Garden, just steps from the library, enriches the experience with opportunities for children to explore gardening and nature in a hands-on setting. The library was made possible by generous grants from Dominion Energy and Ruppert Family Foundation and a donation from the Jane L. Taylor book collection.
Ha-Ha Wall
Between the Manor House and Potomac River lies a sunken brick Ha-Ha Wall. Originating in 18th-century England, these walls were designed to keep livestock and wildlife out of manor gardens without erecting a noticeable fence to spoil the view.
Black Walnut Tree
Former River Farm owner Tobias Lear referred to the property as “Walnut Tree Farm.” Today, below the ha-ha wall, one of few remaining majestic old black walnut trees still stands, a reminder of the 18th-century landscape familiar to Lear and George Washington.
Wildlife
River Farm is a nature lover’s paradise, teeming with a diverse array of wildlife. Deer, foxes, turtles and an impressive 20+ different bird species call this property home. The highlight of the farm is the presence of two bald eagles who have made a poplar tree near the river their nesting ground. A bluebird trail of eight carefully monitored bluebird houses by the Fairfax Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists provides a safe haven for these vibrant songbirds. Whether you’re a bird watcher, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful respite, River Farm offers a captivating glimpse into the wonders of the natural world.