Huntland’s Historic Kennels Restored

Middleburg Hounds leaving Huntland Kennel to go out hunting.

Story and photos by Joanne Maisano

After a century of being vacant, the kennels at Huntland were finally occupied by the Middleburg Hounds temporarily on March 9. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, Huntland was once owned by Joseph Thomas back in the early 1900’s when the kennels were established.

Jt. MFH Jeff Blue and Penny Denegre, and Huntsman Richard Roberts.

Dr. Betsee Parker purchased Huntland several years ago and started the renovations. Through her efforts and resources, Dr. Parker has brought the kennels back to their original 1920’s style. Not even the smallest detail was overlooked, and the result is impressive. Dr. Parker shared the completion with the members of the MFHA on what turned out to be an exceedingly cold Friday evening. Dr. Parker gave a tour of the kennels while Huntsman Richard Roberts did an exhibition with the Middleburg hounds.

The meticulously restored kennels at Huntland.

After the tour of the kennels and hound exercises, everyone retired to the beautifully decorated main house for a buffet dinner. MFHA director David Twiggs gave his thanks to Dr. Parker for all of her many contributions to the community, including the Allen House, now the new headquarters for the MFHA.

Middleburg Huntsman Richard Roberts with Dr. Betsee Parker.

The hounds stayed at the kennels and members of the Middleburg Hunt met at Huntland the following morning for their meet. The Middleburg hounds brought life back into those kennels that have been so thoughtfully restored. ML