After the Emancipation Act and the end of the Civil War, many freed slaves built communities across Prince William County.
One of those communities, known as “The Settlement,” within the triangle of Old Carolina, Carver Road and Lee Highway in Gainesville, remains, to this day, home to many descendants of those early County residents.
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, founded in 1877, anchors “The Settlement” and has been the center of the community’s life for more than a century hosting religious services, community events and its annual “homecoming,” which is typically held in August to reunite friends and family.
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church is recorded as a Virginia Historical Landmark and is nominated for listing on the National Register for Historic Places.
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors recently recognized “The Settlement,” with its stories and structures, as a historic African American Community in Western Prince William County.
Recent Stories
The City of Fredericksburg and Stafford County have both announced water main breaks on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop is currently on leave, the school announced Thursday in a message to families.
Prince William County Public Schools did not provide further details upon InsideNoVa’s request as it is a “personnel matter,” said Director of Communications Diana Gulotta.
Empower yourself and take the first step towards self-care and growth at the Commitment to Self: “I Do!” Women’s Empowerment Conference!
Topics include:
– Navigating power structures
– Women’s health issues
– Learning to A-D-A-P-T and tap into your power
– Discovering your best self today
Fredericksburg celebrated the grand opening of its new Visitor Center on January 10, 2025, with an open-house event that drew hundreds today at the newly renamed City Center government building, formerly known as the Executive Plaza. Community members gathered at 601 Caroline Street to explore the revamped space, enjoy light refreshments, and learn about the Visitor Center’s offerings.
The new facility, described as brighter and more accessible, provides an inviting hub for showcasing Fredericksburg’s artists and businesses. “The center is fabulous,” said Mayor Kerry Devine. “It has space for showcasing our artists and businesses, and we’re just so excited to welcome people to this new center.”
Rita McClenney, President and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation, emphasized the importance of the Visitor Center as a resource for wayfinding and discovering unique experiences in Fredericksburg. “A lot of people research before they travel, but there’s nothing like being on the ground and finding out about a place through the people who know it best,” said McClenney.
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.
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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:
