In this episode of the Potomac Local News Podcast, we sit down with Rob Orrison, Manager of the Prince William County Historic Preservation Division, to talk about the Buckland Historic Center, also known as Buckland Mill—one of the county’s most historically rich and least-known treasures.
Located just off Route 29 near the Fauquier County line, Buckland was once a bustling mill town dating back to the 18th century. Today, it’s the focus of ongoing preservation efforts aimed at restoring its historic charm and opening it up to the public.
Orrison walks us through the area’s history, from its industrial beginnings to its strategic importance during the Civil War, and shares the county’s vision for transforming the site into an accessible destination for locals, students, and visitors alike.
We also learn about:
- How the county acquired the property
- What’s being done to preserve and interpret the site
- Plans for public tours, signage, and community engagement
Watch the full interview below:
For more information about the Buckland Historic Center, visit the county’s official site here:
pwcva.gov/department/historic-preservation/buckland-mill
Potomac Local News brings you closer to the people and places shaping life in Northern Virginia. Subscribe to our podcast on YouTube or your favorite streaming platform for more local stories.
Prince William County’s Office of Historic Preservation is working to restore one of the county’s most overlooked historic homes — the Williams-Dawe House.
In a new episode of the Potomac Local News Podcast, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Paige Gibbons-Backus, Historic Site Manager at the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center, to talk about the home’s history, its many owners, and the extensive restoration work now underway.
Built in the 1820s, the Williams-Dawe House is believed to be the oldest surviving residence in Brentsville. Originally constructed for Jane Williams and her brother Philip Devereaux Dawe—both of whom were closely connected to the Prince William County courthouse system—the home sits directly across the street from the historic Brentsville Courthouse.
Although the house was once a stately structure known locally as the “White House,” years of vacancy and neglect left it overgrown and structurally damaged. In 2022, the county purchased the property to ensure its preservation and integration into the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center.
Restoration efforts include roof repairs, chimney stabilization, and a full historic structures report to determine which parts of the house are original and which were added in later renovations, including a major restoration undertaken during World War II by the Webster family.
The Office of Historic Preservation hopes to eventually open the house to the public. In the meantime, residents can follow along, donate, or even share their own connections to Brentsville’s past.
Learn more about the project here:
Prince William County purchases the Williams-Dawe House, the oldest building in Brentsville
\Watch the full interview and explore more local stories on our YouTube channel:
Potomac Local News Podcast on YouTube
The farmland, the small-town life, and the memories that built Prince William County are fading fast. But one effort is working to preserve those stories before they’re gone for good.
In our latest Potomac Local News Podcast, we sat down with Lauren Maloy, Historic Communities Coordinator at the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation. She shared the mission behind the county’s oral history project, which collects and preserves personal stories from longtime residents, government officials, and people who have shaped the community in unique ways.
From firsthand accounts of Prince William’s rural roots to reflections on significant moments like the proposed Disney theme park in Haymarket and the Lorena Bobbitt and D.C. Sniper cases, these stories offer rare and vital insight into how the county has evolved.
The Office of Historic Preservation is actively looking for:
- Residents with deep roots and stories to share
- Volunteers to help transcribe interviews
- Suggestions of communities or individuals to feature
You can listen to the full conversation and learn how to get involved by watching our interview with Lauren Maloy on YouTube.
To learn more about the county’s preservation efforts or read transcripts of past interviews, visit:
Know someone with a story to tell? Reach out and help ensure the past isn’t forgotten.
History buffs and curious minds, mark your calendars! The 10th Annual Prince William/Manassas History Symposium is set to take place on Saturday, March 22, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Manassas Museum. This all-day event is a must-attend for anyone interested in uncovering the stories that shaped our community.
What to Expect
The History Symposium brings together local historians and experts to dive deep into Prince William County’s fascinating past. This year’s engaging lineup of lectures includes:
- John Sidebottom – The story of an African American Revolutionary War soldier
- Dumfries Raid – An exploration of a key historical event
- Gustav Friebus – The architect behind the charming town of Annaburg
- Wellington Community – The rich heritage of a beloved neighborhood
- Rangers and Dragoons – Tales from the Old Stone House
Special Offers
Tickets for this full-day symposium are just $10 per person—a fantastic deal for an event packed with insights and expert discussions. Plus, attendees can purchase a special one-day edition of the Journal of Prince William County History for only $5!
SOLD OUT: Historic Homes Bus Tour
As an added feature of the symposium, a Historic Homes of Prince William County Bus Tour was offered on Sunday, March 23, taking guests on an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at some of the area’s most remarkable private historic homes. While the tour has already sold out, there’s still time to grab your seat at the symposium!
Be Part of History
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore and celebrate our county’s heritage. Register today at www.pwcparks.info/hptickets and immerse yourself in a day of historical discovery.
For more details, call 703-792-1731. Stay connected on social media for event updates:
- Facebook: facebook.com/pwhistoric
- X: @PWHPF
- Instagram: PWC History
Join us at the Prince William/Manassas History Symposium and bring the past to life!
Peter Rabbit has scrambled our eggs, and it’s up to you to find them, solve the puzzles inside, and beat the clock to win a basket full of toys and candy. Can your family complete the challenge in just 30 minutes?
Join us for a new Scrambled Egg Hunt at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre on Saturday, April 19 for a unique spin on a springtime classic.
Hunt Times:
- 10 a.m.
- 11 a.m.
- 12 p.m.
- 1 p.m.
- 2 p.m.
Tickets: $35 per group (up to six people)
Location: Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre
More Information: 703-365-7895
Spots are limited—reserve your ticket now at pwcparks.info/hptickets.
Nestled in the heart of Prince William County, the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Established in 1820, Brentsville served as the fourth county seat of Prince William County and remained a hub of legal, civic, and social activity for over 70 years. Today, the 28-acre site preserves the town’s legacy through restored historic buildings, engaging tours, and interactive programs.
Exploring the Historic Centre
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre features five significant structures that tell the story of the town’s evolution:
- Brentsville Courthouse (1822): Used for legal proceedings and civic meetings, the courthouse played a crucial role in county governance until the county seat moved to Manassas in 1893. Over the years, it also served as a school and a community center.
- Brentsville Jail (1822): Located just 30 yards from the courthouse, this structure housed inmates awaiting trial. The jail later became a dormitory for a teacher’s college before being restored as a museum.
- Brentsville One-Room Schoolhouse (1929-1944): This building educated local children in grades one through five during the segregation era. After its closure, it was repurposed as a community center, arcade, and office space before its restoration in 2012.
- Haislip-Hall Farmhouse (1850s): A restored example of middle-class farming life, the farmhouse was relocated to Brentsville in 2005 to preserve its history.
- Union Church (1880): Originally built to serve multiple Christian denominations, this charming historic church is now available for special events and rentals.
Interactive Experiences for Visitors
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre offers a variety of engaging activities for visitors of all ages:
- Self-Guided and Guided Tours: Explore the historic buildings Friday through Monday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Guided tours are available at 11 AM and 2 PM.
- Adventure Backpacks: Families can rent a Nature Backpack or History Backpack for interactive exploration. These backpacks include hands-on activities, scavenger hunts, and historical games for young visitors.
- Virtual 360° Tours: Tablets with virtual tours are available to provide accessibility for all visitors, offering narrated insights into the courthouse and other buildings.
- Brentsville Trail Guide: A mile-long nature trail offers a scenic walk along Broad Run, with a guide available for those interested in local wildlife and ecology.
Civil War and Brentsville’s Role
During the Civil War, Brentsville was a focal point for military activity. Confederate units formed here, and the town suffered damage from both Union and Confederate forces. The courthouse roof was partially torn off, and county records were taken as war souvenirs. Following the Battle of Bristoe Station in 1863, Brentsville served as a key location for Federal cavalry movements.
Visiting Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre
- Location: 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, Virginia 20136
- Hours: Open Friday-Monday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (grounds open from dawn to dusk)
- Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six. Special program pricing varies.
- Contact: (703) 365-7895
Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or family looking for an educational outing, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre offers an unforgettable journey through Prince William County’s past. Plan your visit today!
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Tin Cannon Brewing Co., 7679 Limestone Dr. STE 130, Gainesville, VA
The Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Prince William County Parks & Recreation invite you to a special evening celebrating the rich presidential history of Northern Virginia.
Join us at Tin Cannon Brewing Company for an engaging panel of historians as they delve into fascinating stories of presidents, landmarks, and pivotal moments in American history tied to this region. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an entertaining and educational night out, this event offers a unique way to blend learning with local craft beer.
Highlights:
- Insightful discussions led by expert historians
- Fun, casual atmosphere perfect for history lovers and newcomers alike
- No cost to attend – it’s FREE!
Bring your friends, enjoy a craft beer, and toast to the historical richness of our community.
For more information, contact 703-792-1731. Don’t miss this blend of history, culture, and local flavor!
Loch Lomond Elementary School opened in 1961 to serve the growing communities on the north side of Manassas. The land, once part of the historic Ben Lomond property, was donated by developer C.D. Hylton. Its design was unusual—a central main building connected to two circular classroom wings surrounding a courtyard, linked by open walkways.
In Prince William County, this architectural style became known as the “Bailey Building,” named after architect Earl B. Bailey. While Bailey had designed several schools in Fairfax and Loudoun counties, Loch Lomond departed from his typical designs. The concept quickly gained popularity, inspiring similar designs at Baldwin, Featherstone, Westgate, Elizabeth Vaughan, and Marumsco Hills elementary schools. These circular layouts were intended to maximize space while keeping construction costs low.
A significant chapter in the school’s history began in 1964 when Zella Brown, a all-Black Antioch-McRae Elementary School teacher, was reassigned to Loch Lomond. She was one of the “Courageous Four,” a group of Black educators who took positions at previously all-white schools, helping to integrate Prince William County Public Schools—ten years after the Supreme Court ruled segregation unconstitutional.
Over the decades, Loch Lomond saw shifts in its student population. The creation of the independent Manassas Park school system and severe flooding from Hurricane Agnes in the 1970s contributed to fluctuations in enrollment. Despite these changes, the school’s structure remained largely unaltered until the mid-1990s, when the open walkways were enclosed. A new classroom addition followed in 2013.
While Baldwin Elementary was replaced in 2016 by the City of Manassas, Featherstone, Westgate, Elizabeth Vaughan, and Marumsco Hills elementary schools have been modified but continue to serve students. Today, Loch Lomond remains a vital part of its community, representing both innovative school design and a significant moment in local history.
The Prince William County Historic Preservation Division sponsors this post.
Step back in time and experience history firsthand at Ben Lomond Historic Site in Manassas, VA. Built in 1832, this remarkable home once served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of First Manassas. Today, visitors can explore its preserved rooms, complete with Civil War-era graffiti left by Union soldiers, as well as the original slave quarters, smokehouse, and dairy that tell the story of the people who lived and worked here.
Stroll Through History – Don’t miss the fragrant Rose Garden, featuring one of the largest collections of antique roses in the region.
Engaging Tours – Open Friday-Monday, 10 AM-4 PM, with guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM. Admission: $5 per person, free for children under six.
Accessible Experiences – Enjoy 360° Virtual Tour tablets and foreign language guides in French, Italian, German, Chinese, and Spanish—available at no extra cost!
Volunteer With Us! – Love Civil War history or gardening? Join our team and help preserve this incredible piece of Prince William County’s past.
Visit us at 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, (703) 367-7872 or historicpreservation@pwcgov.org
Plan your visit today and experience history like never before!
