Francis York

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This Timeless Virginia Estate is One of America’s Great Homes

This property is on the market for $29,950,000, listed with Mclean Faulconer Inc.

Featuring fine period detailing throughout, North Wales Farm was built in the late 18th century and belonged to the Hooe-Allason family for over 6 generations.

In the 1920s it was sold and became the North Wales Club, a private sportsmans club for shooting, fox hunting and socialising.

In 1941, the palatial estate was purchased by Walter P. Chrysler Jr., son of auto magnate and founder of Chrysler’s Air-Temp division, who displayed one of the most important collections of Expressionistic art in the country, his collection of works by Picasso, Rodin, Degas, and Matisse, among others.

In addition to breeding racehorses, Chrysler also updated the property with a swimming pool, equestrian arcade, tennis court, and a small conservatory to house his mother’s orchids.

At this time, North Wales also became a destination for entertaining high society, with Chrysler hosting roaring parties and balls at the estate.

Sold in 1957 to the former Oklahoma Congressman Victor Wickersham, the fate of North Wales Farm was threatened with rezoning until the property was purchased by Michael V. Prentiss and his wife, Patricia in 1996, who placed the property under conservation easement.

The property is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.

The Georgian manor house is surrounded by pristine parkland, and comes with a 2-storey Georgian Revival-style stone carriage house, a guest house, as well as additional residences and a shooting preserve.

The stately residence is set in 1471 acres of rural countryside, just 1 hour from the nation’s Capital and 45 minutes to Dulles International Airport.

All photos belong to the listing agency.