STRATFORD—Stratford Hall is undertaking several major projects that will enhance both the preservation of the historic property and the visitor experience.
“Fall is traditionally a busy and exciting season at Stratford and this year is no exception,” said president John Bacon. “We hope our visitors, guests, friends and neighbors will join us throughout these months to experience the breadth and depth of Stratford, and we’re grateful for everyone’s patience as we accomplish important improvements that will enhance Stratford for years to come.”
The pedestrian bridge connecting the Visitor Center and the historic area is undergoing maintenance including painting and new planking. The bridge is closed during this work and reopening is anticipated by early fall. The Visitor Center and Gift Shop, at either end of the bridge, remain open and arrangements for convenient parking and transportation are in place.
Stratford’s iconic Great House, constructed in the 1730s and painstakingly preserved and exhibited, is surrounded by several other historic structures and outbuildings. Five of these structures will receive new, historically-appropriate roofs during the coming months.
The first project under way is the northwest outbuilding, located at the northern boundary of the west yard. When these projects are complete, Stratford will have accomplished an important aspect of its preservation responsibility in connection with these centuries-old buildings.
Installation of a new, historically authentic garden east of the Great House continues. This is a project in partnership with, and led by, the Garden Club of Virginia, continuing a relationship that spans more than eight decades. Construction of the new garden’s borders and pathways is proceeding. Later this fall new plant material will be installed, all pointing toward a spring “opening” of this exciting new feature of the Stratford experience.
Stratford’s full slate of programs and tours continues amidst these projects this fall, including the Wine & Oyster Festival September 15-16, the ongoing series of landscape treks exploring Stratford’s natural environment, kayaking programs on the Potomac, and other opportunities.
