About

The Margaret Paxton Memorial Trust was created in 1922. Named for Rachel and Charles Paxton's daughter Margaret, who predeceased both her parents, the sprawling estate [50 acres were left to trust] was bequeathed to the Margaret Paxton Memorial for Convalescent Children Trust to benefit children in need. 

 

The Campus has served many children during its 100+ years. Following Rachel Paxton's death in 1921, her former residence, the Carlheim manor, housed children recovering from illness or injury. It then became an orphanage until 1980.  From 1980-2004, it served as the Margaret Paxton Memorial Learning and Resource Center. In 2008, the Arc of Loudoun leased 10 acres of the property to run the Aurora School for children with autism and to provide daycare services.   

 

Through the 100+ years, the Trust's focus has been to provide children in need with a space to be nurtured, protected, and given the opportunity to thrive. A critical aspect of the Trust's work is supporting organizations that help children feel safe and supported so they can grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals.  

 

The Paxton Trust contributes over $500,000 in-kind annually in the use of our beautiful historic Campus to The Arc of Loudoun to meet our mutual mission of serving children in need. The Paxton Trust has also collaborated with dozens of other organizations in Loudoun, focusing on health, safety, and education for all at-risk children and children in need. 

 

The Trust is in the process of building an even stronger community for children in need through initiatives like the recently announced Mosaic Campus. 

 

The Trust is governed by a three-member Board of Trustees and the Board of Visitors, consisting of the Rector and three female members of St. James Episcopal Church, consult with and provide advice to the Trustees regarding the management of the Trust.