Venture

Commanding an 8.2-acre hilltop site in a valley of notable estates, c. 1904 “Venture” is enjoying a spectacular renaissance. Enjoying the sweeping vistas of rolling hills and verdant valleys of the Green Spring Valley from atop the knoll at 1718 Greenspring Valley Road, it is easy to understand why Edward Burke, on his return from a tour of duty with Teddy Roosevelt and his fellow Rough Riders after their charge up San Juan Hill, chose to create his dream home on this extraordinary vantage point. Designed by James A. Darrack of New York and built by Israel Owings of Mt. Washington on land that was once part of “Old Stoneton” (developed by Samuel Stone in the 1800s and passed on to the family of Alexander Hamilton Stump), Burke originally named this homestead “Bally Dugan.” In 1921, the property passed to Richard and Catherine Jackson who renamed the farm “Venture.”

Majestically sited to perfectly appreciate the incredible south facing views of the valley, the estate proudly showcases its stately American Colonial Revival architecture. While careful maintenance of this spectacular home was set aside for some time, the elegant bones, extraordinary detailing, and strong foundation remain fully intact. With the help of renowned Baltimore firm Vince Greene Architects, Venture is now poised for a renaissance, to reclaim its position of architectural prominence amongst the greatest estates of the Green Spring Valley and well beyond.

A meticulous restoration of the bright exterior of the grand estate has been newly completed. These updates include new high efficiency Lowen windows, custom milled shutters, new copper gutters, downspouts and chimney caps, new flue extensions and caps, restored exterior plaster finish, replaced bluestone front porch, and a painstaking restoration of the original Vermont green slate roof. The entire exterior has been newly painted and a beautiful 18’ x 36’ brick terrace was added to the east side of the house. On the interior, the magnificent main staircase and handrail system has been restored as well. While much of the house has been readied for an extensive built-out, many of the custom finishes as well as the seven fireplaces, each with beautiful and unique hearths, have been retained to ensure a continued historic feel throughout the home.

Architectural plans conceived and executed by Vincent Greene Architects include the renovation of the Main Level to restore the Grand Foyer, formal Living, Dining and Family Rooms and a beautifully reimagined Kitchen wing. Drafted to particularly highlight features such as the limestone Living Room mantel (rumored to have been brought from England in the 18^th Century) as well as the stunning exposed, decorated joists and large bay windows in the Family Room. The Second Level boasts an incredible newly designed Master Bedroom Suite with expansive walk-in closets and two Master Baths. The Second Floor also includes four additional large Bedrooms (each en-suite), a Laundry Room, and a Common Room shared space. The Third Floor offers two Guest Rooms (each en-suite), a Sitting Room/Office and an Exercise Room featuring breathtaking views of Green Spring Valley. The reimagined Lower Level features abundant storage, a Wine Cellar and a large Recreation Room.

A gallery connector from the main house would provide access to a proposed three-car Garage with an apartment above. New landscaping concept plans provided by Lothorian Pools, including a beautifully sited pool and pool house, layout beautiful greenspaces, stone accent walls, and a lovely Patio fit to accompany such a preeminent home. Exciting possibilities abound in the restoration of such an illustrious piece of Maryland history and the re-establishment of its rightful place of celebrated distinction within the Green Spring Valley community.