Walney Pond & Farm

 

We went for a walk this afternoon at a local Fairfax County park, once a farm and surrounding woods.

 

It was very still, so there were good reflections in the pond, despite the grey skies.

 

The stream above the pond had at one stage been diverted and dammed to create an ice pond, which enabled ice to be created and carved up in winter for use through the year in an ice house.  

 

The stream was also used to enable the processing  of milk, butter and cheese in the farm dairy.  Although little is left now it is still possible to see how the thick stone walls and running water would have helped to keep everything cool, especially on the steamier summer days.

 

 

The farmhouse itself, dating from the early eighteenth century and originally accompanied by a wooden house alongside, is now a visitor centre.

 

The only original wooden building is the smoke house..

 

 

It was an interesting walk and will be good to visit again when the trees are in leaf.