timber-frame wooden staircase constructed entirely with mortise and tenon . “ Not a single nail went into those steps ,” Jeff reflected , his expertise clearly mirrored in each of the restorative details . Even the rotting timbers of the smokehouse that stood hidden under veils of ivy were each pulled and restored , repurposed on the property to honor the generational legacy of Sylvanside stewards and the oldworld methods of building they employed .
As Jeff oversaw the masterful revival of the land ’ s physical structures , Terri turned her attention to the landscape and animals , continuing the tradition of healing that the Quakers imparted here so many years ago . After moving their Clydesdales , Devons , and American Guinea Hog ( Michigan ) to the land , her next task was to fill the gardens with native plants . Sylvanside Farm is now officially a monarch waystation , home to migrating butterflies as they make their way from the north to central Mexico each year . The artisanal , spring-fed pond that was once covered in a mat of green today bubbles with clear water , blanketed with a necklace of wildflowers and native bulbs . The restored orchard , now pruned and replanted with a succession of young fruit-bearing trees , is a favorite destination for couples who decide to start their future together at Sylvanside .
Jeff and Terri turned toward each other , the edges of their mouths imperceptibly curving upward into smiles . “ I guess the first step is just believing that it ’ s possible ,” she said as they both began to laugh . “ The first step is just believing . The second step is
convincing your family , neighbors , and friends to pitch in and help you get it done .“
It took a village to revive this old farm — or more accurately , hamlet , as the farm ’ s formal designation as a Quaker Hamlet is the same as it has been for over 200 years . The thrill of actively stepping into history and “ seeing such a drastic change in the health of the land is the ultimate reward ,” Terri nodded . As we set our eyes to Loudoun ’ s future , it will take this inspired sense of ingenuity
Visual drama abounds in the Syvanside landscape .
PHOTO : @ barbaraophotography
and dedication as we collectively determine the fate of the properties that have given birth to such a rich historical legacy .
Jane Gray traces her Virginia roots back through to the Revolutionary war , where her ancestors fought on the same land her family now farms . Her passions include systems-based agricultural practices , homesteading , and orchard management . She is currently a graduate student at Duke University , where she is pursuing a degree to become a Physician Associate .
wander I spring • summer 2022 11