Five homes. Countless stories.

The property remained in the Dressler family until approximately 1948, when William Clark Sr. purchased the home and eventually divided it into four apartments. The Clark family owned the Evergreen Inn until 2019, when Jon and Laurie Fitzgerald purchased the property. Since then, they have worked extensively to restore and preserve the home, retaining as many of its original features as possible—including the wood floors, tile fireplace and wainscoting—while creating a comfortable and welcoming home for their family and many guests. Upon leaving their front lawn you are only a few steps from the famous Jackson River Scenic Trail. Among the Christmas decorations you will see is a tree adorned with crystals from a chandelier that once hung in the dining room. The large tree in the dining room features another special family collection: nutcrackers collected over the years by Jon and Laurie’s daughter, Kaylie Fitzgerald Johnson, who donated them for the display.

Today, Jon and Laurie share the Evergreen Inn with visitors throughout the year. Guests may reserve any of the Inn’s four apartments, meeting space or its charming little Shasta camper.

In 2023, the home’s story took an unexpected turn when a devastating fire forced the Morris family to leave. In March 2025, after nearly two years of extensive renovation and preservation, they were able to return. More than a century after P. P. Parrish called Riverview Farm home, the Morris family feels fortunate to be the current caretakers—preserving its past while continuing to make memories for generations to come.

The family’s Christmas style is rooted in tradition, with a warm, nostalgic feel that complements the history and character of the home. Each room is filled with greenery, warm white lights, vintage inspired pieces, rich wood tones, touches of brass and traditional red. Decorations chosen with love over the years create a look that feels collected, comfortable, and personal. “We want our home at Christmas to feel welcoming and timeless—a place that brings back the warmth and magic of Christmases past while creating new memories of our own,” John and Ashly said.

Originally established in 1903 as a literary club, the organization helped found Clifton Forge’s first public library and has continued to serve the Alleghany Highlands through charitable and educational programs for generations. As you tour this beautifully preserved clubhouse, imagine the countless meetings, celebrations, pageants, musical competitions, and community initiatives that have taken place within these walls. The club continues to put ideas into action, and with the 501(c)3 designation granted in 2026, encourages tax deductible donations.

Today, your visit not only celebrates our shared history but also supports our mission to preserve this historic building and continue serving our community for generations to come. Please enjoy refreshments today as well as our holiday decorations placed lovingly by club members. *enhanced photo

This picturesque home is distinguished by its striking asymmetrical design, soaring three-story tower, steeply pitched rooflines, projecting bays, and decorative shingles. Its slate-blue exterior is beautifully accented with crisp cream trim, deep blue details, and touches of warm brick red. Tall windows and varied architectural angles give the home the graceful vertical character and visual richness associated with turn-of-the-century Victorian design.

A welcoming front porch opens into a light-filled interior featuring high ceilings, polished wood floors, and a graceful, narrow staircase leading to four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The third level includes a walk-up attic and a charming cupola offering views in several directions. With its abundance of windows and interesting architectural angles, the home is filled with natural light throughout the day.

For the Holiday Home Tour, Jo Ann looks forward to opening the doors of her beautifully restored home and welcoming guests to enjoy its historic character adorned with Christmas trees, festive decorations, and plenty of holiday joy.

This stately Colonial Revival home, with strong Neoclassical influences, enjoys a picturesque setting framed by the surrounding mountains. Its crisp white façade is distinguished by a grand two-story columned portico, classical pediment, upper balcony, black shutters, and graceful symmetry. The circular drive creates an impressive approach and complements the home’s elegant Southern-inspired charm.

The Garten’s’ 425-acre farm includes approximately 10,000 feet of frontage along the James River and is home to a herd of approximately 350 registered angus cattle, adding to the pastoral beauty of this remarkable property.

For the Holiday Home Tour, visitors will find the home dressed for the season in a traditional Christmas palette, with multiple beautifully decorated trees and festive touches throughout.
(Note: Only approximately 2 miles to Glen Aerie Lane.)

Dating to 1790, Glen Aerie reflects more than two centuries of changing architectural tastes and family life. Its early American character is evident in its substantial masonry construction, tall windows, high ceilings, original woodwork, and gracious proportions, while later additions and renovations have created the distinctive, multi-section façade seen today. Inside, abundant windows fill the spacious rooms with natural light, while wood floors and historic details lend warmth and character throughout. The extensive restoration preserved important original features— including fireplace mantels, the staircase, and period woodwork— while thoughtfully incorporating modern amenities. Even later chapters of the home’s history are being preserved, including bathroom features dating to a 1920s remodeling.

In the 1970s, the property was known as the “Woodhouse Place,” when it was owned by Dr. Woodhouse and was home to his large family, including 11 children.

Today, Lisa and Brett are continuing Glen Aerie’s long story as its caretakers. They look forward to welcoming guests to experience this historic home, its beautiful mountain setting, and rooms classically decorated for the Christmas season.