Woodend

Woodend is a Georgian Revival mansion built from brick and stone that sits within 40 acres of natural land in Montgomery County. The property features walking trails throughout the grounds and a main residence designed by architect John Russell Pope.

Chester and Marion Wells commissioned architect John Russell Pope to design this residence in 1927, with construction completed two years later. The property was later repurposed as a center for conservation and environmental work.

The property serves as the headquarters for the Audubon Naturalist Society and functions as a hub for environmental education and conservation work. Visitors encounter the place as an active center for ecological programs and outdoor learning.

The location sits on Jones Mill Road and the walking trails are open from sunrise to sunset for free access. The mansion is sometimes reserved for events, so visitors should check ahead to see if the house itself is open for touring.

The grounds contain a pet cemetery where the Wells family buried their dogs and reportedly an alligator as well. These unusual burials hint at the family's distinctive connection to animals.

Location: Montgomery County

Inception: 1927

Architects: John Russell Pope

Architectural style: Georgian Revival architecture

Floors above the ground: 2

Made from material: dimension stone, brick

Address: 8940 Jones Mill Rd, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Website: https://woodendsanctuary.org

GPS coordinates: 39.00250,-77.06690

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:22