Locust Grove House (Photo Courtesy Don Kraper, Owner)

"A Garden Party" Purcellville Historic Preservation Association Celebrates Locust Grove House Restoration The Purcellville Preservation Association, together with homeowner and PPA member Don Kraper, held an old-fashioned "Garden Party" on Sunday, September 18, 2005. This event was in celebration of the restoration in progress of c. 1830 "Locust Grove House."

This property includes three acres of beautiful land aptly described as an "historic oasis" located within the Town of Purcellville. The secluded home is situated amidst lush and lovely teraced gardens, stone walls, and mature towering trees, and is surrounded by the contemporary neighborhood of Locust Grove.

Highlights of the event included a tour of the home, expressions of appreciation to homeowner Don Kraper, descriptions of the grounds and the significance of a Siberian Elm tree, and the presention by Mr. Kraper of a 1774 KING GEORGE III COPPER HALF-PENNEY to Loudon County. The coin was discovered on the property.

During the ceremony, Purcellville Councilman Tom Priscilla explained the significance of the 175 year-old Siberian Elm, noting that there was a possibility that the tree could be registerd as a "State Champion Tree." A partial botanical listing of over 30 species of trees on the property, including the Siberian Elm, has been identified by local horticulturist Mac Stiff.

Mr. Kraper, along with David Chicelli, also a resident of Locust Grove House, have begun the process of securing listings on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register. If successful, Locust Grove House would be the first such listing for Purcellville.

The "Garden Party" was coordinated by Purcellville Preservation Association members Susie Windham, Mac Brownell, and Meredith Thomas.