History
The Meadow was established in 2014 by long-time Rockbridge residents Hunter Mohring and Karen (“KB”) Bailey. As one of the first natural burial grounds operating in Virginia, The Meadow served our community as privately-owned and operated business for its first ten years.
After months of collaborative planning, the founders donated their enterprise to a local non-profit in 2025, whose 15-acre woodland garden borders the preserve. As an established, environmental organization, Boxerwood Education Association (BEA) was thrilled to welcome The Meadow into its stewardship portfolio – and here we are.
The acquisition brings the story of The Meadow full circle. Back in 1999 and with assistance from Mollie Messimer, Hunter and KB were the visionary founders of BEA, whose mission is “to educate and inspire people of all ages to become environmentally responsible stewards of the Earth.” The donation of The Meadow brings both endeavors together, united in the land’s natural beauty and by care for all who call this place home.
To read Hunter’s first-person account of how the concept of green burial first took hold of her imagination and energies, click here.
To read a local press release about the 2025 Meadow donation, click here.