The Selma Mansion plantation, nestled at the foot of Catoctin Mountain in Loudoun County, near Leesburg, endured years of seclusion, with its once-lively grounds overtaken by neglect and the gradual encroachment of vines and decay. However, this tale isn’t one of desolation and forgotten heritage. In a heartening twist, the Selma Mansion has found new custodians who have invested love and effort into its restoration, breathing new life into its former splendor. Today, visitors have the privilege of exploring this magnificent home firsthand.
Remarkably, even in its abandoned state, Selma retained a certain grace and dignity that hinted at its rich history, serving as a poignant reminder of the timeless allure of historical landmarks.
The Selma Mansion exuded an undeniable sense of pride, its historic significance palpable within its aging walls. Every crack and whisper seemed to echo with tales of the past, stirring rumors of lingering spirits haunting its once-deserted corridors. Yet, amidst the eerie ambiance, the allure of this majestic structure remained undiminished. Despite its potential for instilling a sense of trepidation, there was an undeniable beauty that persisted, captivating all who beheld it.
Constructed in 1815 by Armistead Thomson Mason, a descendant of the esteemed Virginia statesman George Mason, the original manor home at Selma Plantation stood as a testament to the family’s enduring legacy. The roots of Selma’s history stretch back to its acquisition as part of a vast 10,000-acre tract by Mason’s great-grandmother, Ann Stevens Thomson Mason, in 1741. Thus, the Masons emerged as pioneers in the Leesburg area, their imprint on the landscape dating back to the earliest days of Virginia’s colonization.
Mason’s influence extended beyond the confines of Selma, as he held a prominent position within the community of Leesburg. His tenure as a U.S. senator from 1816 to 1817 underscored his stature in political circles before he ultimately settled at Selma.
In a union that would shape the course of Selma’s history, Mason wed Charlotte Eliza Taylor on May 1, 1817. The following year, in 1819, the couple welcomed their only son. Tragically, this joyous occasion marked the beginning of a series of misfortunes for men associated with Selma.
On February 6, 1819, Mason’s life was cut short in a fateful duel with his cousin, Colonel John Mason McCarty, following a heated political disagreement. The confrontation proved fatal for Mason, who succumbed to his injuries at the first shot, while McCarty narrowly escaped with a wound. This somber event left an indelible mark on the history of Selma, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the consequences of unchecked conflict.
Despite its picturesque façade and auspicious beginnings, tragedy continued to cast its shadow over the Selma property.
Following the untimely death of her husband, Charlotte Mason remained at Selma, caring for her infant son, Stevens Thomson Mason, Jr., who inherited his father’s entire estate.
Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the fatal duel, Colonel John Mason McCarty relocated to a nearby property known as Strawberry Plain, maintaining a physical distance from Selma. Despite their geographical proximity, any hopes of reconciliation between the families were dashed, and the rift remained unhealed. McCarty’s own life met a tragic end in a hunting accident, occurring along the boundary separating the Mason and McCarty properties. There’s a certain poignant irony in his passing occurring at this dividing line, symbolizing the irreparable fracture between the families.
Despite the weight of his family’s history, young Stevens Mason carved out a reputation as a dashing figure about town, often seen driving a pair of horses in tandem through the streets of Leesburg.
Despite his charming demeanor, Stevens Mason’s financial struggles led to the unfortunate necessity of selling the family home and enlisting in the U.S. Army. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1847 during the Mexican-American War, following closely in the footsteps of his mother’s passing just a year prior. Indeed, the saga of tragedy continued to haunt the original inhabitants of the Selma Mansion.
In the 1890s, a devastating fire ravaged the original structure, leaving the once-stately home in ruins. However, in 1896, a beacon of hope emerged in the form of Elijah B. White, who embarked on a mission to restore Selma to its former grandeur. Collaborating with the renowned Richmond architectural firm of Noland and Baskerville, White set about designing a Colonial Revival masterpiece. By 1902, the new Selma mansion stood proudly on the grounds, incorporating a kitchen wing salvaged from the remnants of the original structure that had miraculously survived the inferno. Thus began a cycle of repair and restoration that would become a recurring theme in the tumultuous history of this remarkable property.
Over the ensuing 114 years, Selma changed hands multiple times, each owner and developer leaving their mark on its storied legacy. From the late 1980s to the early 2000s, Selma underwent yet another transformation, serving as a picturesque venue for weddings and events. Renowned for its stunning photographic backdrops, including a legendary rope swing immortalized in countless bridal portraits, Selma exuded an aura of idyllic charm amidst its turbulent history.
Despite fervent efforts, the abandoned Selma Mansion languished in a state of disrepair for an extended period, prompting its designation as one of Virginia’s endangered historic sites by Preservation Virginia since 2009.
The deteriorating Roman Ionic columns and imposing staircases of Selma presented a stark contrast to the modern developments encroaching upon its surroundings. For years, it seemed as though Selma would remain a silent observer, bearing witness to the relentless march of nature and urbanization eroding the remnants of a bygone era.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged with the arrival of Scott Miller and Sharon Virts. This dynamic duo, having amassed their wealth through hard work in their respective fields, turned their attention towards philanthropic endeavors aimed at enriching the community. The sight of Selma in such a state of neglect served as a poignant reminder for Miller and Virts of the critical importance of historical preservation.
With unwavering determination, Scott Miller and Sharon Virts acquired the property, embarking on the arduous yet profoundly meaningful journey of restoring the abandoned Selma Mansion to its former splendor. Their vision was clear: to preserve this historical gem, ensuring that future generations would have the opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of its past.
Through a meticulous blend of dedication, financial investment, scholarly research, and boundless affection, Miller and Virts breathed new life into Selma, transforming it into a beacon of beauty and knowledge for all to behold. Today, thanks to their tireless efforts, the Selma Mansion stands once more as a testament to resilience and the enduring power of restoration.
For Miller and Virts, Selma symbolizes not only rebirth but also the prospect of redemption and second chances. As the daffodils bloom around the estate in spring, they are imbued with a sense of hope for the future. It is their fervent desire that this spirit of optimism and renewal be shared with all who visit, leaving an indelible impression of hope and possibility for the seasons to come.
