Richard Watson

Culturally, historically, and architecturally significant, Oakdale, circa 1838 and 1898, ancestral home of Maryland Governor Edwin Warfield, is a magnificent estate on a tranquil 180-acre tract only 20 miles from both the Washington and Baltimore beltways. On The National Register of Historic Places and sited on land acquired by The Warfield's in 1766, the main house boasts 12-inch thick brick walls and 12 fireplaces, with 24 rooms and 5.1 baths comprising over 9,500 sq. ft. Impressive, original detail and craftsmanship are prominent throughout, and the grand front porch, graced by 18' Roman Doric columns, provides a striking view of the property's fields and woods, bested only by the stunning vista from the rooftop widow's walk. An addition to the main residence, Oakdale Hall (2005), masterfully designed and artfully integrated, provides an additional 8,870 sq. ft. of space and a superb setting for grand entertaining or concerts. It is equally well-suited for use as additional residential space, guest rooms, or as a recreation facility along with the adjoining 60x30 pool. Uniquely, in conjunction with the county"s approval for operation of a winery on this property, it would also serve as an ideal site for wine tastings. The versatile design of this complex might also lend itself to other intriguing potential uses, such as a corporate retreat, meeting site, offices, or wedding venue. The combined structures are gracefully connected via a 120' covered colonnade merging into the main wraparound porch. Together, they encompass 35 rooms, with 16 bedrooms and 10.2 baths, and collectively, with the garage, represent 18,370 sq. ft. of enclosed space, with another 4,460 sq. ft. under roof. Other outbuildings include the Carriage House and Gardener's Cottage residences, as well as a brick smokehouse, pond-side gazebo, and tool shed. Additionally, a large 3-level stable supports substantial equestrian endeavors, and farming operations are supplemented by an additional barn, silo, equipment shed, 2-acre spring fed pond, and a stream. With remarkable visual impact and an evocative setting, Oakdale singularly connects the past and present, offering myriad possibilities on a grand scale for the discerning buyer.