rural enterprise
Bluemont ’ s Equine Veterinarians Make an Impact in Loudoun
By Sarah Burke
Loudoun County is known for stunning vistas , farm fresh food , and of course wineries and breweries , but I ’ ve often thought the real charm of this area is in the small independent businesses , which are so much more interconnected with the community than a casual visitor might be aware . In particular , the charming Bluemont General Store has been operating in the historic village of Bluemont , just off Route 7 , since
1840 . It ’ s a wonderful place to enjoy an ice cream cone on the front porch or under the 100-year-old tree , grab a quick coffee or snack , or to inquire when the next batch of baby chicks will be available .
The current owners , Dr . Lani Newcomb and Dr . Kathy Broaddus , purchased the store in 2006 with the intention of moving their established equine veterinary practice to a more rural area . After practicing in Herndon since 1986 , they fell in love with the peaceful little village and the newly renovated building , but were conflicted about taking on the store . While they hadn ’ t intended to run a general store when they first bought the property , they also didn ’ t want to take such a long-running establishment away from the community . They have since implemented the perfect compromise — the general store remains on the main level of the building , while Broad Run Veterinary Service , Inc ., operates on the lower basement level . Practice leader Dr . Newcomb gleefully tells me the vet office is known locally as the “ groundhog hole ” because of its low ceilings . During our conversation , she is matter of fact about change , but it ’ s obvious she cares about preservation and conservation .
46 wander Chick I spring Delivery • Day summer at the 2023 Bluemont General Store
PHOTO : Dr . Lani Newcomb