The “birthplace of aviation” is for sale.
Chopawamsic Island in the Potomac River, which runs through Stafford County has been listed on the Real Estate market for $4.9 million.
The 13-acre island is listed by Woodbridge-based Samson properties, listed as a private property that is a short boat ride to Washington D.C. and has a 1,500 square home.
According to the listing, the home was built in 1930 and includes three sections: The main house, a guest house, and the caretaker’s house and are all listed as part of the sale. The listing also states that those houses are in need of extensive renovation or complete rebuilding.
The listing also boasts notable visitors such as John Smith and Theodore Roosevelt and also claims that John Lennon of the Beatles once considered purchasing the property.
The listing for the island also mentions the flight of Aerodrome #5 conducted by Professor Samuel Langley. On May 6, 1896 Langley launched the pilot-less craft from a boat off the coast of Chopawamsic Island which predates the famous Wright Brothers flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina by seven years.
A picture of the flight taken by Alexander Graham Bell is kept in the archives of the Smithsonian.
The experimental flight has inspired Stafford County to lay claim to the title of “the birthplace of aviation,” and has led to officials looking into possibilities to use this claim to attract tourists.
Recently the Stafford Regional Airport Authority approached the county’s Board of Supervisors with a plan to exhibit a replica of Aerodrome #5 on their grounds. The idea would be to attract aviation enthusiasts for sightseeing as well as using the model for educational purposes.
The Aerodrome #5 model would be built by Warrenton-based company the Wright Experience who had also built replicas for the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum.
Samson Properties is currently considering all offers for the purchase of the property by corporate and non-profit organizations. As of now, the Stafford County officials are not considering purchasing the island.
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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
