EDEN TRY
“A Try at the Garden of Eden”

Recapture the romance of yesteryear as you wander the 12 magnificent acres of this architecturally stunning, Georgian Colonial reminiscent of the grand manors of the past. 

Eden Try’s Manor House was built in the Williamsburg style and upon arrival you will notice a resemblance to the George Wythe House.  All brick and four stories high, the Manor House stands as a proud tribute to a by-gone era.  The detail in the brickwork is reminiscent of old-world craftsmen.  Since a brick home was seen as more prestigious than a wood home (and interestingly enough, still is), the level of attention to detail in the brickwork was seen as the ultimate indicator of success and status in the period.   Shutters, porticos, and other less durable embellishments are noticeably absent as they would hide the meticulous attention to detail and would not stand the test of time.  Quality homes of the period were built for future generations.  (Think of Stratford Hall, the stately boyhood home of Robert E. Lee.)

But the Manor House provides only half the drama.  The Manor House is surrounded by the “Garden of Eden”.  Eden Try simply means “A try at the Garden of Eden”.  Eden Try was named by the original owner, who was a horticulturist.  He would tour the formal gardens and castles of old-Europe and lecture on his findings in the States.  He was an expert in the field and tried to recreate what he saw at his own estate.  Befitting its name, and carrying on its grand tradition, Eden Try has been on the Virginia Garden Tour.

As if that were not enough, Eden Try offers a glimpse into its past.  During clearing and construction of the Manor House, an abandoned gold mine was discovered.  You can still readily find “fool’s gold” in the many streams meandering through the property.  Civil War artifacts have also been found on site. 

A small footbridge takes you to what is rumored to be the largest specimen of rhododendron in the state, affectionately named “Grandpa” by the original owner.  It is 60’ around and is so large you may walk under it!  Many unusual flowering trees, bushes and flowers adorn the property – including an exceedingly rare “Flying Dragon”.  This is purportedly the tree that was chosen to guard prominent citizens’ gravesites (including Jefferson) because of its threatening but dramatic features intended “to scare off the evil spirits”.  Despite its outward appearance, it bears an exceedingly fragrant and edible fruit that was used in “the day” to scent linens, bedding, and clothing.  In season, it is still being used in the Manor House to that effect.

If you choose Eden Try as the setting for your wedding or special event, you and your guests may take pleasure in the manicured acres, walking paths and park-like setting that surround the Manor House and will certainly appreciate the exclusivity offered by the 90 acres adjoining the property on either side.  All this is just minutes from I-95, hotels, shopping, dining, and Fredericksburg’s fabulous historic district. 

Eden Try  takes pleasure in being able to provide a venue that can be completely customized to make your dreams come true.  We do not insist on a specific location on the property for your wedding or event and we do not insist that you use a specific caterer, photographer, florist, or entertainer because it is your day and we believe it is your dream. 

Your wedding, reception, or special event can be held on the grounds at the front of the brick Manor House with a dramatic horse and carriage arrival, amongst the beautiful tiered gardens at the back of the Manor, or beyond among the 5 acres of manicured lawns and mature landscaping.  You choose your style. 

For your memorable event consider Eden Try ...
and step back to a time when Elegance and Sophistication were a way of life.