Historic Gardens of Virginia 



tary Lansing, which took place under Gunston trees." (Charles 

 Moore, Gunston Hall Sketchy P- 3-) 



From George Mason the Gunston estate passed to his eldest 

 son, George, of Lexington; thence to the third George Mason. 

 All three, with their families, lie in the quiet, tree-shaded grave- 

 yard at Gunston. This sacred spot, until recently sadly neglected, 

 is now enclosed within an appropriate brick wall. Here, beneath a 

 chaste marble sarcophagus, imported by George Mason from Eng- 

 land, lies his beautiful wife, Ann Eilbeck Mason. On this stone is 

 inscribed the following verse: 



"Once she was all that sweetens life, 

 The tender mother, daughter, friend and wife, 

 Once she was all that makes mankind adore, 

 Now view this marble and be vain no more." 



The widow of George Mason III sold the estate in 1867, and 

 thus the ownership passed from the Mason family. In 19 12, Gun- 

 ston Hall was purchased by Mr. Louis Hertle. The Hall was then 

 seriously impared by neglect. Various additions had been made 

 to the original building, sadly altering its character and appearance. 

 The once well-tended gardens had almost disappeared, only their 

 outlines remaining. The present owner, with the advice of a com- 

 petent architect, has made a thorough and careful restoration of 

 both house and grounds. 



Eleanor Hertle. 



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