​In four decades of dealing with the world's most exceptional properties—from exotic automobiles to private jets, and now Virginia's finest real estate—I've learned to recognize true rarity when I encounter it. The historic Chamblin Mill estate at 36155 Chamblin Mill Lane in Purcellville represents something increasingly uncommon in today's market: a property where authentic American heritage, thoughtful preservation, and modern luxury converge in perfect harmony.

Dating to 1792, this remarkable estate began its journey as a working grist mill along the pristine waters of Beaver Dam Creek. The mill itself bore witness to America's growing pains, ultimately falling victim to Civil War flames, yet the Miller's residence endured—standing today as the historic heart of this extraordinary 3.21-acre sanctuary. With nearly 1,000 feet of creek frontage, the property maintains its deep connection to the waterway that once powered commerce and continues to provide natural serenity.
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As someone deeply involved in Middleburg's sustainability initiatives, I'm particularly drawn to properties that demonstrate responsible stewardship of our natural resources. This estate exemplifies that principle, having preserved both its historic structures and pristine creek ecosystem through more than two centuries of careful guardianship.

​The main residence showcases over 4,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, featuring five bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and five wood-burning fireplaces that create warmth and ambiance throughout. What sets this property apart is the masterful way two distinct additions enhance rather than compromise the original 1792 structure.

The first addition demonstrates remarkable foresight, incorporating a three-car garage alongside a completely independent guest house. This one-level residence features two bedrooms, full bath, kitchen, dining room, family room, and an inviting front porch—essentially a turnkey rental opportunity or perfect accommodation for extended family. In my experience with high-end properties, such versatility significantly enhances both lifestyle options and investment potential.
The second addition brings contemporary luxury to the forefront with an impressive stone foyer, convenient half bath, additional family room, and a generous primary suite with full bath. These spaces flow seamlessly from the historic core, creating a residence that honors its past while embracing modern comfort.

​The estate's outdoor amenities rival those of exclusive resorts. Expansive patio areas, a charming rear porch, and a peaceful dove house create multiple venues for both intimate gatherings and grand entertaining. The centerpiece is an in-ground pool with spa, where the gentle sounds of Beaver Dam Creek provide nature's own soundtrack for relaxation.

​Having represented properties from equestrian estates to commercial hangars, I appreciate versatility in outdoor spaces. This property delivers magnificently, offering everything from quiet creek-side contemplation to pool-side entertaining, all within the privacy of over three acres of pristine Virginia countryside.

At $2,248,000, this estate represents what I call "legacy value"—the kind of investment that appreciates not just financially, but in significance over time. Properties combining authentic historical provenance with natural beauty and modern amenities are becoming increasingly rare as development pressure continues across Northern Virginia.

The included guest house adds immediate income potential, while the property's unique character and creek frontage ensure lasting appeal. In my years representing luxury assets, I've learned that true rarity commands premium returns, and few properties offer the irreplaceable combination found here.

Through my work with Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty, I've had the privilege of connecting international buyers with Virginia's most distinctive properties. Our global network regularly brings qualified purchasers seeking exactly this type of historically significant, luxury country estate. The Sotheby's International Realty brand opens doors worldwide, ensuring maximum exposure for exceptional properties like Chamblin Mill.
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As current President of the Dulles Area Association of REALTORS® and a Middleburg Town Council member, I understand both market dynamics and the regulatory environment affecting unique properties. This dual perspective proves invaluable when navigating the complexities of historic property transactions.

My philosophy of "Clients come first" has guided me through decades of high-stakes transactions across multiple luxury markets. Whether representing a renowned equestrian estate or a distinctive historic property like Chamblin Mill, I bring the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence that has characterized my career in luxury goods.

For those who appreciate the intersection of history, natural beauty, and sophisticated living, the Chamblin Mill estate represents not just a home, but a legacy waiting for its next chapter.

​The Chamblin Mill estate is available exclusively through Hunt Country Sotheby's International Realty. Contact me directly to arrange your private appointment and experience this extraordinary piece of Virginia history firsthand. Click here to view the full MLS listing: 36155 Chamblin Mill Lane, Purcellville 20132

This Travel & Leisure article about my town, Middleburg, nicely sums up why I love it. Come and visit! ​

This Small Town in Virginia Is a U.S. Dupe for the English Countryside—Here's How to VisitMiddleburg's rolling green hills, charming shops, and country inns have all the old world charm of a Jane Austen novel.
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By Madeline Weinfield, Published on June 5, 2025

You don’t have to be Jane Austen obsessed to be dreaming of the English countryside in 2025. This year is the 250th anniversary of the Pride and Prejudice author’s birth and the idea of an idyllic, rose-scented, never-too-hot English countryside has permeated imaginations, bucket lists, and social media feeds seemingly the world over. While we cannot all swing a trip to Austen’s birth country this summer, we can visit somewhere a little closer to home—especially if your home is on the East Coast.

Middleburg, Virginia, about an hour from Washington, D.C., is the state-side answer to a Cotswold’s craving, and there has never been a better time to go. 

Known for its sprawling horse farms, rolling vineyards, historic country inns, and independently owned boutiques, Middleburg has the type of streets and scenery that seem directly pulled from one of Austen’s books. Yet the town has managed to fly under the radar for years, despite being located in the wealthiest county in America (Loudoun County) and despite being a favorite destination of numerous political and Hollywood icons.

Elizabeth Taylor called Middleburg home during her marriage to Senator John Warner, and the Kennedys owned a 166-acre farm here, which they used as a weekend home during their time in the White House. And although JFK famously disliked his weekends here, Jackie remained a local fixture in town even after her husband’s assassination and was a regular at The Red Fox Inn and Tavern. 
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“The unassuming lifestyle of the Virginia Piedmont,” is what charmed Jackie, says Matilda Reuter Engle, who runs Red Fox and whose family has been in Middleburg for seven generations. That lifestyle—with its tony pursuits of fox hunting, horse racing, and polo playing—adds to what Engle points out is Middleburg’s “old-world charm.”  

The old-world, Austen-esque charm is palpable in the postcard-sized downtown, with antique stores and independently owned boutiques like Crème de la Crème, which sells a highly curated selection of European homewares. Owners Tara and Ben Wegdam opened the shop 25 years ago, after successfully running a similar business in Holland. Middleburg proved to be a natural place to open their business after they left Europe. Tara Wegdam is quick to point out that it's Middleburg’s “European charm meets everyday living” that has made the shop such a success. They currently have a customer membership base of more than 100,000 people and run several other locations of their shop in Virginia and Maryland, although the Middleburg spot remains the biggest travel-worthy draw.

Many shops have followed in Crème de la Crème’s footsteps and have thrived in the town, whose population is just 700. Middleburg Books, which opened in 2023 by a local librarian, credits much of its success with those who travel here. “We've found that about 75 percent of our customers are out-of-towners,” says owner Mary Beth Morell. “It's been a delight to see our charming little jewel-box of a bookshop become something of a destination in its own right.”

Other small shops, such as Highcliffe Clothiers, which sells elegant country wear, Federal and Black, which offers home goods and gifts, and Knead, which bakes homemade pizzas, Virginia peanut cookies, and sells sommelier-selected wines, all have devoted fan bases.
Middleburg’s wineries have also helped to establish the area as a destination. And while the wine produced here may not be truly old world, it is a thing of beauty on its own. Virginia’s wine industry has grown substantially in recent years, and local producers, including Greenhill, Boxwood, and Cana are the perfect spots to take it all in. 
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Outside of town, visitors will find two country inns: Salamander and Goodstone. Both hotels are tucked away from town and on substantial parcels of land, and it’s easy to imagine any Jane Austen heroine wandering their grounds.