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Our Story

Our Story

Ours is a love story, really. Walden Hall grew from a love for family, nature and the beautiful countryside of Central Virginia. Owners Dave and Julie settled in Madison after taking many scenic motorcycle rides through the area. They knew they wanted to leave the hustle and bustle of Northern Virginia and create a sanctuary and a home where they could rejuvenate after 30 years of working in international development.

After a beautiful wedding at a Culpeper winery, Dave and Julie made their home at the historic Woodbourne Estate in neighboring Madison County. They began to think of ways to share this wonderful region with the rest of their family and as they started to host visitors, they were reminded of the lack of specialty accommodations in the area. The idea to create a one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast became their mission, and the hunt began.

Dave and Julie found Walden Hall, then a private home, and instantly fell in love. They knew the location – close to Historic Downtown Culpeper, but surrounded by farmland – was the ideal escape from the city they wanted to provide. Dave’s parents moved to Virginia from Colorado to participate in the venture. Surrounded by family and talented friends and colleagues, the construction of Walden Hall began. They took possession of the property (appropriately) on Valentine’s Day, 2015, and over the next three months, oversaw an incredible renovation that included adding luxury bathrooms, knocking down walls, adding windows, and repainting, decorating and furnishing the 16,000 square foot home. A labor of love, you might say. 

The final product was revealed on May 1, 2015, and Walden Hall opened for business. 

Why “Walden Hall?”

The 10 acres of Walden Hall with its pond, woods and country views evoked the essence of Thoreau and his contemporaries. Walden was inspired by the transcendentalist’s famous work and his experience living with and connecting to nature. Hallwas decided on to represent the intention of the property to serve as a gathering place; for family, couples, and friends old and new.

We have found there are no accidents or coincidences in life – Dave actually used Thoreau’s famous quote “I went to the woods to live deliberately, so when I die, I know that I had truly lived,” to describe what he wanted for his life in his high school yearbook nearly 40 years ago.

Dave and Julie

Dave and Julie watch over Walden Hall (sometimes from abroad!) and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. They enjoy dropping by to join guests for happy hour and relish getting to know visitors from around the world. They look forward to spending more and more time in Central Virginia!

On the Road Again! Dave and Julie, together, have worked in more than 50 countries around the globe building basic infrastructure.

Julie and Dave in Banda Ache, Indonesia, where they helped rebuild the national highway after the deadly 2005 Tsunami.

We are lucky to be able to work with a wonderful team every day! Each member of the Walden Hall staff works to ensure our guests have the best possible experience. We are all happy to share recommendations for local attractions and look forward to greeting you during your stay.

From our family to yours, we sincerely hope you enjoy every minute of your time at Walden Hall. It is meant for each and every one of you – breathe deep, laugh loudly, and truly rejuvenate.

See you soon, Warmest Regards,
Julie and Dave