This wild and beautiful 102.5 acre farm is steeped in history and local lore.
The old home on the property has seen better days but it is still a remarkable example of vernacular Virginia architecture. There is a stone basement with huge log beams supporting the first floor. Old wainscoting surrounds every room and the original mantels, millwork and flooring are intact. The home features four fieldstone fireplaces, four rooms, the typical two over two, and a large measure of historic ambiance. You must use your imagination when you view the pictures!
The main home is surrounded by a number of old outbuildings, many beyond repair. However there is an old log summer kitchen that may have been the original structure on Red Oak Mountain. It features exposed, hand-hewn logs, a large cooking fireplace, and a good-sized loft and it is still worthy of restoration.
The farm has two strong streams with a number of good pond sites. There is a broad saddle below the house that was originally farmed. It has grown up in the past 30 years but could easily be reclaimed for grazing, gardening or for an orchard. As the property rises toward the top of the mountain, it becomes more rugged and rocky. On this portion of the farm, there are several outstanding building sites that have fabulous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
From the early 1900s until the mid 1970s, Red Oak was home to some of the finest apple and peach orchards. During this time Rappahannock County was one of the top apple-producing counties in all of the eastern United States. Now much of the orchard land has grown up or been converted to pasture but one can still see vestiges of old orchards on Red Oak Mountain and throughout the farm.
In the mid 1970s many young people looking for a simpler, less frenetic life gravitated to Rappahannock County in what is sometimes referred to as the “hippie invasion.” The Farm on Red Oak became home to a few of these folks who were happy to live without many of the modern conveniences like indoor plumbing and central heat.
Now Red Oak is a hidden treasure. This property is unique in its outstanding location and its place in time. It has many possibilities for sportsmen, farmers, history buffs and people who just want a very special place in the country with amazing views.
