DUMFIRES, Va. -- Jennifer Stringfellow likes Dumfries and its older houses. She ought to, as she is the head of the town’s Architectural Review Board (ARB), a volunteer commission charged with overseeing development, changes, and preserving the town’s historic district that includes an old street grid, something that resembles Old Town Alexandria’s layout.
The small town, Virginia’s oldest continuously charted town of 5,000 residents, wasn’t always known for its busy U.S. 1. When it was founded in 1749 it was one of the nation’s largest deep water ports, and water flowed right up to present day Main Street and the street grid. Many of the old homes and buildings are no longer there, but the Weems-Botts House, Williams Ordinary, the Anderson House that sits about a block away from the Weems-Botts House, Town Hall, and homes that are more than 50-years-old are all in the district.
On Tuesday, Stringfellow volunteered to come to a regular Town Council meeting where she thought she was going to get feedback from elected leaders on a new 13-page document that will better help residents living in the historic district understand what changes they can and can’t make to their homes without approval – everything from painting the outside walls to adding a new room. But instead, some on the council took aim at the historic district itself and questioned why if there are so few historical buildings remain, why have an historic district at all?
This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or Create a FREE Account. Thank you.
Recent Stories
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Stafford County offices, departments, and courts will open on a two-hour delay on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, as the region recovers from the recent winter storm.
OmniRide has announced adjusted operations for Tuesday, January 7, in response to anticipated inclement weather conditions. Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) has also confirmed the suspension of all transit services…
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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.
Featuring:
