Mellon estate in Virginia listed on market for $70 million

The Rokeby Stables estate of the late Paul and Rachel "Bunny" Mellon in Upperville, Va., has been listed on the market at $70 million.

Paul Mellon, who died in 1999, was best known in U.S. racing for breeding and campaigning 1993 Kentucky Derby winner Sea Hero. He received the Eclipse Award as outstanding breeder twice and bred four North American champions as well as English and French champion Mill Reef. He was also a noted philanthropist and patron of the arts. Bunny Mellon died earlier this year.

The 2,047-acre farm, listed via Washington Fine Properties, is offered under conservation easement. It includes three primary residences, including a 10,000 square-foot home; 20 smaller homes and cottages; two stables numbering 43 stalls; multiple barns and shops; a pool house designed by famous architect I.M. Pei; several greenhouses; and an airstrip designed for private jets.

The listing excludes the Mellons’ residence and other property, which, according to Rachel Mellon's will, is to become the heart of a center for education and training in horticulture, botany, and landscape design. Proceeds from the sale of the rest of the property are to flow into foundations to support that center and other causes.