Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Aldie, Virginia, lies Oak Hill, a historic estate established by President James Monroe, where parts of his renowned doctrine were composed. The stately ambiance of this historic residence is palpable, especially in its nearby west porch where fossilized dinosaur tracks are etched into quarried-stone floors, glistening under the sunlight.
Just beyond, a picturesque portico—crafted by the hands of enslaved African Americans—offers an expansive view of rolling foothills extending toward the mist-laden horizon of northern Virginia, a scene untouched by the encroaching development of nearby affluent properties. Oak Hill remains as the last home of a Founding Father that has endured time in private possession, situated in Monroe’s sprawling estate in Loudoun County.
This historic estate, its legacy deeply interwoven with the history of the nation, may soon transition from private ownership to public enjoyment. Owned by the DeLashmutt family since 1948, the estate spans an impressive 1,240 acres (502 hectares). The family aspires to transform this land into a state park, an initiative that initially met with enthusiasm in the House of Delegates but stalled in the Senate.
In collaboration with The Conservation Fund, the DeLashmutts are hopeful that Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin might see the value of the project and incorporate it into his proposed budget amendments before the General Assembly convenes for the veto session. With a critical deadline looming, the governor has until Monday to present any modifications to the budget bill.
Oak Hill’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and the many personal stories embedded within its structures. The estate has a lineage of prominent past residents and unique historical artifacts, such as the elegant parlors adorned with marble mantelpieces, gifts from Marquis de LaFayette as thanks to Monroe’s wife, Elizabeth Kortright Monroe. A bell from the decommissioned USS Oak Hill also resides here as a historic symbol.
For over half a century, the DeLashmutt family maintained the estate. India DeLashmutt, remembering her childhood filled with adventures on this historic land, appreciates the estate’s significant history, which has included figures like Monroe hosting first lady Dolley Madison.
Beyond the tales of the well-known, the histories of the enslaved African Americans and Indigenous people who lived and worked at Oak Hill represent an integral narrative that cannot be overlooked. Contributions by individuals such as George Williams and Natus Berryman, slaves who played key roles in constructing and maintaining the estate, embody those stories—critical perspectives that opening the estate to the public would uplift.
Loudoun County committed $22 million towards the project’s estimated $52 million costs, with another $25 million raised through various partners, including The Conservation Fund, who asserts that the state would bear no financial burden. Senator L. Louise Lucas highlighted the long-term considerations of state park maintenance, expressing initial reservations despite endorsing the intent of the legislation.
Governor Youngkin, initially skeptical, showed intrigue after his onsite visit with Rep. Geary Higgins. While cautioning that prospective obstacles remain, Youngkin’s response was one of cautious optimism, ensuring an open-minded consideration of Oak Hill’s potential as a public park.
