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graduating classes and we have hosted parties, masks, and anniversaries with much success.”
A stroll through Elmwood is nostalgic and while quite grand there is also a feeling of unpretentious elegance. The couple curate many beautiful things on their and continue to do so. Anita loves china and the blue and white pieces that are found in the hand crafted china cabinets in the formal dining room attest to her love of collecting. It’ s the same with the gorgeous 18th century chandelier crafted of rock crystal and amethyst that hangs over the dining room table.“ We found it in Texas and it wasn’ t for sale says Chris but years later it became available. Things have just found their way to the home.”
Decorative woodwork like faux
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bois doors and faux marbre skirting boards by Chris and Michael Christie create an elegant back drop to period furnishings and artwork. The couple have diligently collected familial portraits and continue to source for the home.
“ The bar downstairs was fashioned from a cherry tree that fell on the farm, explains Anita. We live here so first and foremost it is a home. We collect books for the library from local sales and the time period is important as well. So many historical records have been discarded so we felt that it was vital that we gather them up.”
The couple is also involved with the local historical societies. It is these records that help them understand not just the historical significance of the house but also the actual day to day life in early
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Monroe County. Letters from the summer of 1860 written by Mary Caperton the 2nd eldest daughter of Allen Caperton speak of daily life at the manor. Military practice maneuvers, local politics and general goings on provide much insight into the early history of the place but also from a woman’ s point of view.“
“ That is important, states Chris, as the men were so often away.”
Certainly Elmwood reflects the couple’ s passion for gardening. Both are master gardeners and they are currently restoring a circa 1919 Victorian greenhouse. As for most gardeners, there is always a list of things to do.
“ I always see something that needs work, sighs Anita. I walk in the garden in the morning with my coffee but in the evening I can relax
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and sit on the porch. It’ s usually because I’ m tired but the beauty and tranquility are not lost on me.”
And everyone’ s question when you live in an old historical house,“ Unfortunately we do not have ghosts, laments Chris. Once we thought we saw something but we were tired from a long trip and it ended up being nothing. There appear to be no bad spirits here.”
“ It’ s a happy home,” Anita said, smiling.“ There are good feelings all around.”
“ A house is an evolution,” adds Chris,“ and history continues to be made here.”
For more information about Elmwood or to book an event, contact:
184 Elmwood Lane Union, WV 24983,( 434) 422-0258, or elmwoodestate @ hotmail. com
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