It is without a doubt that the DMV area has a lot of its own share of recreational parks and history within the United States. For the past weeks, we've been exploring around the DC area, a place that is full of history. This week, we'll visit the Northern Virginia area and take a look at one of the place's historic landmarks that stood the test of time -- the Morven Park.
About the Morven Park
Located in Leesburg, VA, the Morven Park is known as the home of Westmoreland "Morley" Davis, the Governor of Virginia from 1918 to 1922. Acquiring the property in 1903, he made his home the mansion and farm we all know today. In 1955, thirteen years after his death, his widow, Marguerite Inman, established the Westmoreland Davis foundation and opened the Morven Park to the public as a museum, cultural center, and equestrian institute.
About Morley Davis and his Legacy
Morley Davis rose to power in 1918 as the governor-elect of Virginia under a the wet prohibition at the time. He increased the funding in Virginia and focused more on the educational system, investing these fundings into colleges and universitties. He is also more inclined to develop farming research at the time, supporting farmers in the area.
Morven Park's Features
One of the park's features is its equestrian institute, which is one of his legacies given that he loves horses. It has a number of facilities available in it, including a grand prix arena, a Swiss American indoor arena, 6 barns available for temporary stabling, and Polo in the Park.
His advocacy for civic leadership is also showcased in the park, as it has its own Center for Civil Impact which promotes civics education. This program promotes four core values: knowing that your voice matters, examine current and complex issues, taking responsibility, and making an impact. K-12 lessons are available that teach the skills of active citizenship and showcase the said core values. More information can be found here in case you're interested.
(Photo by Geron Dison on Unsplash)
They also recently launched their 246 Years project, a social justice initiative dedicated to honoring the millions of enslaved people which identities have been forgotten or withheld a long time ago.
(Photo by Gayatri Malhotra on Unsplash)
I hope you enjoyed this week's historic park session! Where should we go next? Do you have any suggestions or recommended places we can go to? Let us know in the comments down below! Interested in living around Leesburg or in the Northern Virginia area to visit these types of places all the time? Let's team up -- 703-625-4949 or email at info@enovahomes.com. Make your move today!
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