16119 Garriland Dr, Leesburg, VA 20176, United States

The Selma Mansion stands as a significant emblem of Virginia’s rich history, embodying the architectural grandeur and storied past of the state. Constructed in 1811 by Armistead Thomson Mason, a distinguished member of one of Virginia’s most influential families, the mansion was originally designed in the Greek Revival style. Over the decades, Selma witnessed the ebb and flow of history, adapting to changing times and circumstances.

Despite its historical prominence, the mansion faced numerous challenges as the years went by. By the late 19th century, the once-majestic structure had fallen into severe disrepair. To add to its woes, the mansion endured a devastating fire in the 1890s, leaving much of its original structure damaged. In 1896, Selma found a new owner in Elijah B. White, who envisioned a revival of the property. White enlisted the architectural firm Noland and Baskervill, renowned for their expertise in the Colonial Revival style, to design a grand new home. Their vision transformed Selma into a striking Colonial Revival estate, ingeniously incorporating a portion of the original structure as the kitchen wing.

For much of the 20th century, Selma retained its grandeur and served as a symbol of historical and architectural significance. However, the late 20th century brought a period of neglect. Sold to foreign investors in 1999, the mansion was left to languish, its impressive façade weathered by the relentless passage of time. The once-pristine property deteriorated, becoming a shadow of its former self and a symbol of lost grandeur.

It wasn’t until 2016 that Selma’s story took a hopeful turn. Sharon Virts and Scott Miller, driven by a profound appreciation for the estate’s history and significance, embarked on an ambitious restoration project. Their vision was not merely to repair the mansion but to honor its historical essence and breathe new life into its hallowed halls. The restoration was an extensive labor of love, involving meticulous research and an unwavering commitment to preserving the architectural integrity of the estate.

The project revitalized not only the mansion itself but also the spirit of preservation and community engagement. Today, Selma Mansion stands as a restored gem, blending its historical character with modern functionality while remaining a testament to its storied past. Visitors and historians alike can appreciate the dedication and effort poured into the revival, which serves as a beacon of hope for other historic properties in need of attention and care.

For those intrigued by the transformation of Selma Mansion and eager to delve deeper into its journey, more information can be found at selmamansionrebirth.com. This remarkable restoration reminds us that with vision, dedication, and respect for history, even the most weathered landmarks can regain their rightful place in the narrative of our shared heritage.