CLARENS ESTATE - #318 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria VA 22304

Situated atop a hill with commanding views, the Clarens estate offers a rare opportunity to own a part of history. The original structure was built between 1814 and 1816. During the 1850’s the reputed first graduate of Episcopal High School, the Reverend George Smith, operated “The Fairfax School” from the property. Two notable attendees were George Washington Custis Lee (Robert E. Lee’s son) and George M. Dallas (the eleventh Vice President of the United States). During the Civil War, Union troops constructed a fort and Clarens served as its hospital. After the war, James Murray Mason, grandson of George Mason and former United States Senator from Virginia, retired to Clarens. During Mason’s residence at the estate he was visited by Confederate President Jefferson Davis and Confederate General Robert E. Lee. After Mason’s death, Clarens became a school for girls before resuming its role as an elegant private home. The stately Nineteenth Century Federal-Style mansion includes seven bedrooms and nine working fireplaces. It has been completely wired for sound. Recessed lighting and wide-plank pine floors are present throughout and two staircases and an elevator provide access to the four floors. The estate is nestled behind a brick wall on Quaker Lane and accessible through a wrought iron gate hand-forged by Stokes of England for the property. Additional access exists from Clarens Street, which runs behind the property. On the north side of the home there is a large parking area and stables, which have been converted into a three car garage. Known for its plentiful springs and orchards, the three and one half acres in the heart of Alexandria are said to have served as George Washington’s hunting grounds and are adorned with several historic outbuildings now used as a guest house, potting studio and a well house. The guest house offers living quarters with a fireplace, full bath and a bedroom. To the south of the main house, the recently constructed pool house stands framed by brick walls and aesthetically situated among the outbuildings. On the first floor is a lovely space for entertaining with stone fireplace, kitchen, full bath and laundry. The second floor offers a bedroom suite and second full bath. A koi pond, trellised grill area, walled orchard, pool, hot-tub, fire-pit and beautiful brick walls complete this magnificent estate.