History of Bush Hill

Home of Richard M. Scott 

R.M Scott was a prominent merchant, banker, politician, lawyer who was heavily involved in real estate.The Fairfax County Deeds records shows Scott listing more than a dozen properties, including his primary and favorite residence, Bush Hill. Unlike many other he rarely purchased Western territory or massive undeveloped acreage but rather small farms which he enlarged, built upon and improved. 

Bush hill showed a devotion to horticulture in fruit orchards of apricot,peach and cherries, a variety of berry vines, and grapes, flower garden sets in squares bordered with trimmed cedar, or boxwood hedges. Trimmed cedar hedges apparently edged the avenue to the house. Hyacinths and tulip bulbs along with strawberries and asparagus were set garden squares. Every year lemon trees were brought up from the cellar and placed in the hallway. In 1950 two holly trees planted by Scott had reached incredible heights of 50 and 60 feet. 

A neighbor to George Washington, Scott frequently sold his Peach trees to Mount Vernon. After the death of George Washington, Scott employed the former German gardener of Mount Vernon; John C. Ehlers. 

Every part of interior of the house was painted, expensive furniture, and 238 bottles of wines and brandies.