During the Country House Era (1890 – 1940), many American industrialists created extensive estates where they and their families could enjoy clean air, healthy food, and active leisure pursuits. The Reynolda estate, which was developed and remained under resident ownership between 1906 and 1924, was one of few such estates in the South. It is further distinguished by the fact that it was guided to fruition and managed by a woman, Katharine Smith Reynolds, who was the wife of Richard Joshua Reynolds. Much of the property was dedicated to farming and other commercial enterprises. The property that now comprises Reynolda Gardens includes important elements that were located at the heart of the estate.
Woods that were part of the farms purchased to create the estate were retained and enhanced when the estate was established. Small plantings of trees and shrubs framed large, open views. Sheep grazed on the nine-hole Golf Links, located near the entrance gate.
Fast-forward 100 years and you can enjoy caching a short way off the old golf links.