The Historic Manor in Glebe Harbor

In Westmoreland County, VA

I believe this is "The Glebe" mentioned on a historical marker in Mt. Holly. The marker describes it as "the home of the rectors of Cople Parish, one of whom, Walter Jones, married Washington’s parents, March 6, 1781. Here lived Thomas Smith, rector of the parish, 1764–1799... He entertained Washington, May 25, 1771. The house is possibly the oldest in the Northern Neck."

Some years back this home was for sale. I regret that we didn't tour it at that time, but it was out of our price range. It is situated on the Lower Machodoc Creek not far from the property we own in Glebe Harbor.

In Colonial Times it was common for a church to own a large tract of property called a Glebe which existed to support the church through farming or leasing. Thus we run into the name "Glebe" throughout Virginia. The business of supporting a church by these lands ended in 1802 when the Virginia passed the Glebe Act which authorized officials in each county to seize and sell church farmland acquired prior to 1777.