After the war's conclusion, Ladew returned home and withdrew from active management of the family business, instead indulging in pursuit of his own interests.
An ardent fox hunter since 1914, Ladew spent much time early in his life riding horses on Long Island.
He once set an international fox hunting record by riding to hounds on both sides of the Atlantic in a seventy-two-hour period.
[1] Among Ladew's many acquaintances were T. E. Lawrence, Richard Rodgers, Cole Porter, Noël Coward, Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable, Somerset Maugham, and various members of European nobility.
Leaving his home on Long Island, he purchased the 250-acre (101 ha) "Pleasant Valley Farm" located in Monkton.
Ladew embarked on an extensive restoration project, rebuilding sections of the house and including modern fixtures.