The Prince William Committee of 100 on 1.9.2014 presented a distinguished panel of experts and an outstanding moderator for the January program, “Can You Rest in Peace in Prince William County?”
Charlie Grimes, a professor at George Mason and the Chair of Prince William Conservation Alliance ran a tight ship as five guests were allotted eight minutes each to summarize their positions.
Julie Langan, Acting Director and State Historic Preservation Officer, Virginia Department
of Historic Resources, stated she was glad to see a timekeeper to keep her on track and gave an overview of what services are provided by the Virginia Department of Historical Resources. Langan strove to explain what a small portion exhumation permits constitutes out of the broad scope of her organization. In fact, only 76 such permits have been issued since 1996. She also stated she was painfully aware of the shortcomings in existing legislation.
Joanna Wilson Green, Archaeology Stewardship and Easements, Office of Preservation
Incentives, from the same agency, further explained that change has come slowly to the burial laws in the state of Virginia. Green stated that since 1989, only four permits such as the one granted to Prince William County School had been issued in the entire state.
Coles District Supervisor Marty Nohe described an initiative by the Board of County Supervisors that will establish policy for development on public land begins with seeking and securing cultural and historic resources.
Bill Olson, President, Historic Prince William, gave a very concise timeline beginning in 2001 when a neighbor firs asked the county to help him locate a cemetery located at the site of what will soon be the 12th high school. The cemetery was not located at that time due to dense vegetation. Olson recalled the single notice of exhumation placed by Prince William County Schools in the Washington Post, and told of the disinterment begun on November 11.
Rounding out the panel was Don Wilson, Director of RELIC. Wilson explained that after obtaining the exact GPS coordinates he was able to trace that land back to 1790. Somewhere between the years 1890 and 1900 there was reference to a cemetery on that land and found an obituary dated 1899 describing the remains of Cordelia Lynn being returned to her home site near Independent Hill.
Absent from the C-100 forum was anyone from Prince William County Schools as the School Board had a meeting schedule conflict. Dave Cline, did send an email to C-100 President Denny Daugherty explaining notification that ran in the Post cost $1,000.00 a day and the notice was posted in the lobby at the Kelly Leadership Center for 60 days. That email was available for attendees to pick up at the forum, as was a handout with the Burial Laws of the state of Virginia.
Greatly missed at the event was Delegate Rich Anderson, who is in Richmond for the 2014 session, but he is patron of this bill (HB # 997) , described as:
Proceedings for the removal and relocation of human remains Strengthens the requirements for disinterment and relocation of human remains from a cemetery or graveyard by the landowner by requiring the institution of legal proceedings, heightened notice requirements to any heirs or descendants, and notice to the Department of Historic Resources and any local historical commission or organization.
Video of the entire PW Committee forum, including questions and answers that followed the speakers may be viewed on the Prince William Committee of 100 website as soon as that footage has been edited and posted.
Connie Moser serves as the publicity chairperson for the Prince William Committee of 100 and is also a weekly columnist for PotomacLocal.com.
Recent Stories
I’m very focused on growing our newsletter because it is the most direct method of communicating with you. Unlike social media, no algorithms stop you from seeing your local news. What I send is what you see.
The real estate market is competitive—are you equipped with the tools to stay ahead? At Fathom Realty Northern Virginia, we empower agents with industry-leading technology, seamless integrations, and real support to help you close more deals without the extra costs.
Cutting-edge transaction management – Stay organized and efficient from contract to close.
Built-in CRM – Keep your clients engaged and never miss an opportunity.
Seamless marketing & lead generation – Tools that help you attract and convert more buyers and sellers.
Tech that works. Support that matters. Success that’s yours.
Join a brokerage that puts YOU first. Message me today to learn more about growing your real estate career with Fathom Realty Northern Virginia!
A winter storm bringing snow and strong winds will force schools in Stafford County, Fredericksburg City, and Spotsylvania County to close on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
A new, towering sign has been installed at Central Park, the region’s largest and busiest outdoor shopping center.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
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:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
