By Derrick Wood
Dumfries Mayor
This year marks a significant milestone for the Town of Dumfries, Virginia — our 275th anniversary. As the oldest continuously chartered town in Virginia, we have a rich history to celebrate and an exciting future to look forward to. This dual focus on our past and future is the cornerstone of our upcoming celebrations, including a gala at the National Marine Corps Museum and a vibrant community festival.
Our Historic Roots and Resilient Spirit
Founded in 1749, Dumfries once thrived as a bustling port town, serving as a critical economic hub in colonial Virginia. Our strategic location along Quantico Creek made us a natural choice for trade, particularly in tobacco. However, as the creek silted, the town faced economic challenges that necessitated adaptation and resilience.
Despite these shifts, our community’s spirit has never wavered. Over the centuries, Dumfries has continuously transformed itself, overcoming adversity and forging new paths forward. Our resilience has paved the way for a resurgence, setting the stage for transformative developments that promise a bright future for our residents.
A New Chapter of Growth
The present and future of Dumfries are as exciting as our historical past. Today, we are witnessing transformative developments that redefine our town’s landscape and economic outlook. The $500 million redevelopment of a former landfill into the Rose Gaming Resort is a headline example, promising to become a new entertainment and hospitality hub in the region.
Additionally, the future construction of two communities for residents aged 55 and older, and over 250 new residential units on Main Street, are reshaping our town’s demographics and boosting our local economy. The realignment of Route 1 and the revitalization of Main Street are also underway, enhancing accessibility and rejuvenating our historic downtown area.
Celebrate With Us
To commemorate our 275th anniversary, we are hosting a gala on May 10th at the National Marine Corps Museum, followed by a two-day festival filled with activities, fireworks, historical displays, and entertainment. These events are not only a celebration of our rich history but also an exhibition of the vibrant community spirit that defines Dumfries today.
We invite residents and friends from near and far to join us in these celebrations. Whether you’re a history buff, a local business owner, or a family looking for a weekend of fun and education, there’s something for everyone at our anniversary events.
An Invitation to Potomac Local Readers
To our readers at Potomac Local, your participation in these events would not only enrich the celebrations but also help in spreading the word about the positive changes taking place in our town. We encourage you to come and discover the historical charm and modern vibrancy of Dumfries as we honor our past and embrace our future.
We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and to continuing to write the story of Dumfries together.
Recent Stories
The Rose Gaming Resort celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in its newly built multi-story parking garage. Local and state leaders, including Mayor Derrick Wood, Virginia Delegate Luke Torian, and Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr, joined senior officials from Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI), the company behind The Rose.
President-elect Donald Trump (R) made major gains in Prince William County in the recent presidential election, making it one of the 124 counties in the Commonwealth that leaned more Republican than the 2020 election.
On November 3 at 1:22AM, officers responded to the intersection of Prince William Pkwy and Lynn St. in Woodbridge (22191) to investigate an unconscious man in the roadway.
The 2024 Fall Arts and Crafts Show in Occoquan, held from September 27 to September 29, wrapped up with positive reviews, high attendance, and valuable lessons learned.
Established transportation company has immediate part-time position open as a back-up driver transporting military personnel from the Woodbridge area to Baltimore and Richmond. No CDL required but must be able to pass DOT physical and drug test. Must good driving record and pass criminal background check. Send resume with references to [email protected] or call 606-594-7018
Job details
Employer: Bfs Transportation
Position: 15 Passenger Van Driver
Employment type: Part-time
Workplace type: Fully in-person (in Woodbridge)
Compensation: Not specified
Application deadline: Not specified
Contact for application questions: Not specified
Mozart’s Don Giovanni thrillingly explores the passions and perils of love, morality, and the inevitable fallout of reckless choices, all centered on the daring exploits of Don Giovanni. His seductive adventures ignite intense encounters and fierce conflicts with unforgettable characters like Donna Anna, Donna Elvira, and Zerlina. The electrifying drama pulls audiences into a world of intrigue, where every action has thrilling consequences. Join us at the Embassy of Austria, September 13th at 7:30 pm for what will be an exhilarating night of opera!
Maestro Julien Benichou, Conductor
featuring:
Sing a Song of Christmas!!!
Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise
Sell Your Home the Modern Way. Sell for More.
Bob Mathew, founder of Snapdoor, will show you how to sell your home the modern way and make more. Snapdoor’s platform incorporates top agent best practices and lets you sell your home directly to home buyers through an online, transparent, step-by-step