Alexandria's Clarens Estate Sells For Record $7.5M, Highest City Sale Ever

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The historic Clarens Estate, located at 318 N. Quaker Lane in Alexandria, sold for $7.5 million last month. This transaction represents the highest sale recorded in Alexandria City history, Washington Fine Properties said in a news release.

The 1803 colonial home sits on nearly four acres with views of the Potomac River. Jaci Appel and Hadley Jones of Washington Fine Properties represented the seller in the transaction that close Jan. 23, according to a news release.

Before the estate's construction, the land is reputed to have been the site of George Washington’s hunting lodge. The home later served as a hospital during the Civil War and later as a school. Clarens was once the residence of James Murray Mason, a U.S. senator and grandson of founding father George Mason. The estate hosted notable visitors, including Robert E. Lee and Jefferson Davis.

Clarens later served as an all-boys’ school, attended by George Washington Custis Lee, George M. Dallas and others. Following Mason’s ownership, it transitioned into a girls’ school and eventually became privately owned.

According to a news release, the main residence spans over 10,000 square feet and includes seven bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, combining historical details with luxury living.

The home features original hardwood floors, nine fireplaces, and keystone arches. The French country kitchen includes a La Cornue range and granite countertops. The primary suite offers an 1806 Irish mantle, walk-in closets, and a luxurious bath with heated floors.

The property includes four carefully preserved outbuildings: a one-bedroom carriage house, a potting shed, an icehouse, and a well house. A modern two-story pool house features a heated 24-foot by 44-foot pool, Jacuzzi, fire pit, and sandstone decking. The pool house also has a living room with a fireplace, a full kitchen and bath, and an upstairs bedroom with estate views.