OCCOQUAN, Va. — On your next trip to Occoquan, you may see historic buildings and pretty scenes, but one thing you’re not going to see is the old Merchant’s Mill, which was once located in historic Occoquan. The mill burned down in 1924, but one resident of Occoquan, Dr. James Walbert, has found a way to revive the memory of Merchant’s Mill – he’s constructed a scale model of the mill for residents and tourists.
On Saturday, Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta and town residents gathered at Town Hall to hear Walbert speak on the history of Merchant’s Mill, and the arduous process he underwent to construct a scale model of the mill. Walbert shared the step by step process he used to construct the model, showing photos and dimensional drawings to further demonstrate the process.
The model, which can be seen at the Mill Museum on Mill Street, was the culmination of almost a year’s worth of work, and is an excellent replica of the mill, based on gathered photos and information found in records.
The model stands a quarter inch to one foot in scale of the original mill, was constructed using construction foam, wood, and other traditional materials, and is full of precise and immaculate details. While some parts of the mill were unable to be researched, requiring Walbert to use some skillful guesswork, with the help of the Historical Society, and Mayor Porta’s book in the Arcadia series on the town of Occoquan, Walbert was able to make a model that is the exact image of Merchant’s Mill.
Residents and patrons are able to see the model of Merchant’s Mill at the Mill Museum in Occoquan, daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Mill Museum is operated by the Occoquan Historical Society.
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If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family, look no further than Aria Mia, a sweet little kitten currently up for adoption at Prince William County Animal Services. This brave little one arrived as a stray with injuries to both of her eyes. Aria Mia has already undergone surgery on one eye and will need follow-up treatment for the other. Despite her challenges, she’s shown incredible resilience and is ready to start a new chapter with a loving family.
Aria Mia has already proven that she’s not just a cat lover but a dog lover too! During her recovery at Caring Hands Veterinary Clinic, she showed how well she gets along with dogs. So, if you’re looking for a kitten who can coexist with your furry canine companions, Aria Mia might just be the perfect fit for you.
Come meet Aria Mia today and see for yourself what a sweet, loving companion she can be. She’s eager to find her forever home and start the next phase of her life in a caring and compassionate environment.
Deuntay Diggs, Chair of Stafford County’s Board of Supervisors, indicated Tuesday evening that he is prepared to take legal action should some of his colleagues continue to ask for an amendment to the Code of Performance that “adversely affects my career, my calling,” reports the FXBG Advance.
A report from the Federal Railroad Administration requested by Fredericksburg City Council and Mayor Kerry Devine on this past summer’s freight car derailment blames human error for the mishap, reports the FXBG Advance.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is progressing toward finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Economic Development Authority (EDA) and the Department of Economic Development.
The draft MOU aims to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both entities in promoting economic growth and business attraction within the county. However, concerns raised by some Board members suggest that the document may need further refinement before it can be adopted.
During a work session on January 28, 2025, Liz Barber, the county’s Director of Economic Development, presented the draft MOU, highlighting the extensive process that led to its creation. The document was developed over the past year, with input from both county administration and EDA members. Its goal is to establish clear guidelines and expectations for the EDA and the Department of Economic Development, particularly regarding the administrative processes, division of duties, and collaboration between the two bodies.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
