Long before European settlers arrived in Northern Virginia Native Americans traveled numerous waterways in the region.
The few paths around the area frequently followed high ridges between the rivers and creeks. In this area, the trail was commonly referred to as The Potomac Path by early provincials in the area, and they were charged by the General Assembly to keep their “highways clear of vegetation. “
By the end of the 17th century, this road was formally known as the Potomac Path, established to travel the most “convenient wayes to the Church, to the Court, to James Towne and from County to County.” As communities expanded, the route became the artery of Prince William County – Churches and Chapels were established along its way, as were public tobacco warehouses, businesses, and courthouses.
By 1755 the Fry & Jefferson Map identified the road as the “King’s Highway” and mail service was transported along the route. For generations, this road was little better than a rough path, wide enough for a few wagons. It connected rural estates and small homesteads, to small communities dotting the eastern seaboard.
During the Revolutionary War, the road in what today is eastern Prince William County would gain new significance. In 1781 the Comte de Rochambeau arrived from England with reinforcements of ground troops to support the American War effort.
The plan was to converge on Yorktown and end the war. Most troops traveled by boat, but General Washington and the Comte de Rochambeau, their staff, the artillery, and baggage begin to move south on the Kings Highway to Yorktown.
They would arrive in Yorktown in mid-October and lend a hand to the siege. A year later, having won the war, the French would travel the same route north to Boston on their way home.
Small sections of this road still exist through Prince William County and Northern Virginia and are undergoing preservation efforts from the county’s Historic Preservation Division and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
This route tells the story of our history beyond the travels of General Washington and the French during the Revolutionary War. It was traveled by Native Americans, ordinary citizens, and some of the most extraordinary individuals in our history.
And in the future, we hope that you experience these same pathways that our ancestors did.
Recent Stories
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”

Get More from your Fitness with IM=X® Pilates & Fitness King Farm!
Help us Celebrate our 5 Year Anniversary by joining our OPEN HOUSE
When: April 27th 11:45AM
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has