Stafford County is making history with the launch of the Stafford African American Heritage Trail, a new initiative designed to highlight the county’s rich African American history. The trail, developed in collaboration with the University of Mary Washington’s Department of Geography, local historians, and community members, officially debuts this week as part of Black History Month celebrations.
Chairman of the Stafford County Board of Supervisors, Deuntay Diggs, announced the trail’s opening at the board meeting on February 18, 2025. “This trail system is part of Discover Stafford’s commitment to sharing the complete story of the county’s history,” Diggs stated. “By walking this trail, residents and visitors can learn about the powerful contributions of African Americans to our community and honor their legacy.”
The Stafford African American Heritage Trail features centuries-old landmarks, stories of local African American leaders, and sites of historical significance. Among the highlights is the burial site of John DaBatiste, a Revolutionary War veteran who served aboard the Dragon, a ship known for employing more African Americans than any other vessel during the war. The trail also recognizes stories of resilience, including the founding of a volunteer fire department after a devastating house fire in 1963, which led to the creation of a thriving community rescue squad.
A special dedication ceremony for unveiling the Stafford African American Heritage Trail historical marker has faced multiple postponements due to inclement weather. Initially scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Stafford Hospital, the event was postponed to Wednesday, February 19, due to an upcoming storm. However, as another round of winter weather approached, organizers were forced to cancel the unveiling event again. They now hope to reschedule the dedication for sometime in March.
Preserving and Celebrating African American Heritage
Connie Hiker, President of Discover Stafford, emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing these stories. “At Discover Stafford, our mission is to research, document, and share Stafford County’s rich history through storytelling tied to specific locations. By honoring the labor, struggles, and contributions of those who came before us, we recognize the courage of Stafford’s Black community—both enslaved and free,” Hiker said. “We also celebrate the resilience of entrepreneurs like the Walkers, who created spaces of joy in challenging times.”
Visitors can explore the trail using resources on Discover Stafford’s website, which provides interactive maps, historical background, and video content. During the board meeting, a special video presentation showcased key locations along the trail, encouraging residents to explore and reflect on the history that has shaped Stafford County.
The project is a result of strong community partnerships. Xavier Richardson, Chief Development Officer of Mary Washington Healthcare and President of the Mary Washington and Stafford Hospital Foundations, acknowledged the collective effort in bringing this initiative to life. “This project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of many community organizations, including the Walker Family, Stafford Hospital, and Stafford County Board of Supervisors,” Richardson stated. “It is our honor to bring this important piece of history to light and to celebrate the rich heritage of our community.”
Vice Chairman Tinesha Allen echoed the importance of this initiative. “We encourage everyone to take the tour, share the stories, and remember the importance of honoring the contributions of African Americans in Stafford,” Allen said.
Recent Stories
Rappahannock Area Community Services Board will present its “Art of Recovery” exhibition from May 2 to 31 at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library in Fredericksburg.
MANASSAS, Va. — Residents packed City Hall on Monday, April 28, 2025, to speak out during three public hearings on proposed increases to real estate taxes, personal property taxes, utility rates, and the city’s $174 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026.
STAFFORD, Va. — Stafford County Public Schools officials are asking the Board of Supervisors to approve a $2.95 million property purchase for warehouse and training space currently used by the school division.
Triune Entertainment has announced its exciting 2025–26 season, showcasing beloved classics like Annie and The Prince of Egypt, the autobiographical Tick, Tick… Boom!, and a brand-new original musical, Into the Sun. Performances will take place at the Journey Stage in Warrenton, VA, starting in November 2025, promising a dynamic season of heartfelt storytelling and spectacular productions.
Empower Your Future: Leadership, Mentorship, Education, and Networking — Calling middle and high school students for FREE Educational Summer Programming!
LLT STEMpower Camp at Marymount University
Middle School Students | Two Sessions:
July 7–11, 2025
Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:
After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”
Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
