May is Historic Preservation Month, a nationwide event that highlights the contributions that historic preservation has made in strengthening local communities.
Prince William County is lucky to have many organizations that help preserve our community’s history, including a County Historic Preservation Division. The Prince William County Historic Preservation Division is the caretaker of nearly a dozen historic sites and properties that interpret the history of all of Prince William County’s residents from the pre-colonial era to today.
The early history of our county is best showcased at Rippon Lodge Historic Site in Woodbridge. The 1747 estate of a colonial elite, Rippon Lodge was restored in 2007 and follows the history of the building and the county as new sections were added in the following 200 years.
The common day to day life experience of a county resident in the 19th century is shown at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre. The 4th county seat, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre interprets this past with the 1820s Courthouse, 1850s farmhouse, 1870s church, and 1920s school house, all of which have been painstakingly restored in the past 10 years.
The story will be expanded once the 1820s jail that is currently being restored is complete later this year. On Saturday May 7, the experience of a typical resident will be recreated at Brentsville with living historians in the farmhouse, a militia muster, mock trials, and some historic craftspeople on site.
The Civil War had an unusually heavy impact on our community, which can be seen, held, and smelled at Ben Lomond Historic Site. An 1830s mansion, Ben Lomond was used as a Civil War hospital after the First Battle of Manassas. Later passing soldiers ransacked and graffitied the house, some of which can be seen today.
Two battlefield parks, Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park and Cockpit Point Civil War Park explore the other lesser known battles that were fought in Prince William County.
One of the most recent restoration projects has been the Barnes House at the Montclair Community Library. A 1790s home, the Barnes house is currently being restored to help interpret the African-American experience in the post-Civil War South. Once it is finished, it will help strengthen our community’s connection to our past.
This post is paid for by the The Prince William County Historic Preservation Division
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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
