Ever wish you could turn back the hands of time, to step into a life slower paced, quieter, an era of more genteel living? Unfortunately, for most of us, that's not possible, but last month I did the next best thing, I spent some time at Smithfield Farm Bed and Breakfast.
Turn off the road onto the half-mile drive that passes through an apple orchard and over a flowing stream, with idylilic views of distant mountain ridges, cattle grazing next to whitetail deer, and before you reach the main house you'll know you've come to a special place. The home, built in the early 1800's, has been maticulously restored to better than new. Electricity and modern baths are now included with no loss of the authentic 19th century charm. Several of the farm's other original buildings are still on the site. Some have also been fully renovated. Others are a work in progress. While I am not a student of architecture, the archway in the main foyer is a feature that impressed me as being truely unique.
Smithfield has belonged to the same family for eight generations and is set in the middle of a 400 acre working farm. Along with the exceptional scenery, guests enjoy meals made from the farm's bounty, with everything, the pasta, the bacon, the eggs laid by free-range chickens, all 100% organically produced.
For the history buff, the farm's location is near many places of interest. George Washington's home, Mount Vernon, is nearby, so is Arlington National Cemetery. Numerous Civil War battlefields are only a short drive includling, Manassas, Antietam, Winchester, Cedar Run, and others. Relaxing on Smithfield's porch after a day trip it's easy to imagine Mosby's Raiders racing by with Custer's Cavalry in hot pursuit or looking down the lane to envision a carriage coming, bringing cousin Scarlet for a visit.
For those planning a trip to the nation's capital and for those living near the District, a visit to Smithfield is only a short hour away. From my home in northern Michigan, the trip is a full eleven hours, but I'm planning to return. One word of advice, leave the Blackberry at home and turn off the cell phone. Give yourself a chance to decompress, you'll never have a better opportunity.



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