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Historic Preservation Events
The Office of Historic Preservation hosts a variety of events to introduce the community to Prince William County's rich historic and cultural past. Events are held at several historic properties including:
These events allow visitors to explore and discover the families homes events and the everyday life of Prince William past. We hope you will join us for a step back in time!
Click here to register for one of the events listed below. Fall Program Registration Opens August 4, 2026.
June
June 19
Juneteenth at Lucasville
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; free, donations welcome
Join us at Lucasville in honor of Juneteenth to learn about the celebration marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans throughout the South. Visit the one-room schoolhouse to learn about the development of freedmen communities throughout Prince William County and the progression of education throughout Prince William County throughout Reconstruction and the Jim Crow Era.
Lucasville School, 10516 Godwin Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-365-7895.
June 20
Batestown Exhibit Ribbon Cutting
4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.; free, donations welcome
Join as we step back in time and explore the history of Batestown, a resilient African American community that once thrived just a few miles away from the newly renovated Williams Ordinary in Dumfries, Virginia. Opening on Juneteenth weekend, this temporary exhibit is part of the broader effort to transform the 18th-century tavern into a vibrant cultural center and museum in honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The grand opening of the Batestown exhibit at Williams Ordinary in Dumfries marks a significant milestone in the preservation of Northern Virginia’s diverse heritage. This rotating exhibit provides an immersive look into the historic African American community of Batestown, established by free and formerly enslaved families. Light refreshments will be served.
Williams Ordinary, 17674 Main St., Dumfries, VA. 703-792-1731
June 22-26
Colonial Times and Revolution: Rippon Lodge Summer Camp
9 a.m. to 5 p.m., $240 per child, ages 9-12.
This five-day camp will explore Virginia’s colonial and Revolutionary War history through the eyes of the Blackburn Family, the original owners of Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Indoor and outdoor activities, crafts, foodways, field trips, and special guests included in this history camp. Children should bring their own snacks, lunch and beverages. Space is limited.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
July
Every 2nd and 4th Weekend May through October
Bristoe Station Battlefield Tours
Bristoe Station Battlefield staff and volunteers will provide guided tours of this hallowed ground that was a Civil War camp, cemetery, and battlefield. Learn about Camp Jones and the battles fought in 1862 and 1863. Tours begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. and depart from the parking lot on Iron Brigade Unit Avenue. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Insect repellant is encouraged.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049
July 6-10 SOLD OUT
Civil War Summer Camp
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $240 per child, ages 8-13.
Our Civil War Summer Camp takes a hands-on approach to studying the American Civil War. Campers will learn about the many parts of the life of a Civil War soldier, including drill, camping, cooking, uniforms and equipment, flags, artillery, cavalry, a field trip to local Civil War sites, and more.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
July 17
Walking Tours of Historic Prince William Towns: Buckland
6 – 7 p.m.; FREE
Learn about Buckland, one of the best-preserved 18th and early 19th century industrial towns in Virginia. Visitors will meet at Buckland Historic Center, which includes Prince William County’s Ned Distiller House and the Ashe House.
16210 Lee Hwy., Gainesville, VA 20155. 703-792-1731.
July 18
Ben Lomond Hospital Lantern Tours
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.; $10 per person, advanced registration is suggested.
Following the Battle of First Manassas, Ben Lomond was used as a hospital where surgeons treated the wounded throughout the night. Every inch of space in the house was used to care for hurt and dying soldiers. Tour the hospital in the dark and discover the aftermath of the Civil War’s first major battle through the words of those who experienced war’s horrors. Tours begin every 30 minutes at 8 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. Click here to get your tickets.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr, Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
Monday, July 20
Museum Family Monday: Rippon Lodge Game Day
10 a.m. - 11 a.m., $5 per person.
Bring the family to explore history through fun, historic games and activities at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Programs include outdoor and indoor experiences. Click here to get your tickets.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
July 20-24
PWC History Camp: Days Past
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $240 per child, ages 8-13.
Take a step back into the past and explore how life has changed in Prince William County over the last three centuries. Campers will explore a wide array of hands-on activities connected to Brentsville’s historic buildings including a farmhouse, school, courthouse, and jail, and enjoy trips to other local history sites throughout the week that will introduce them to the ways people have lived in Prince William County from Native Americans to the present day!
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
July 23
Prince William History Lecture Series: “Opening Manassas: The Iron Brigade, Stonewall Jackson, and the Battle on Brawner’s Farm, August 28, 1862” by Bill Backus
7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE
In the fading light of August 28, 1862, an untested Union brigade of Wisconsin and Indiana men fought an unexpected 90-minute stand-up clash with the Confederate veterans of Stonewall Jackson on the Virginia farm fields of John Brawner. Surprisingly, little has been said about this remarkable engagement. Join historian and author Bill Backus as he shares insight from the first full-length balanced study of this action. This lecture is a FREE program jointly sponsored by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.
Pat White Center at Ben Lomond, 10501 Copeland Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-792-1731.
August
Every 2nd and 4th Weekend May through October
Bristoe Station Battlefield Tours
Bristoe Station Battlefield staff and volunteers will provide guided tours of this hallowed ground that was a Civil War camp, cemetery, and battlefield. Learn about Camp Jones and the battles fought in 1862 and 1863. Tours begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. and depart from the parking lot on Iron Brigade Unit Avenue. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Insect repellant is encouraged.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049
August 3-7 SOLD OUT
Greatest Generation Summer Camp
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; $240 per child, ages 8-13.
The Greatest Generation Summer Camp introduces campers to the American experience during World War II through immersive activities and field trips. Campers will get to experience soldier life, including drill, boot camp training, and mock battles. They will learn about the Homefront civilian experience through activities and crafts, and field trips to nearby museums to see real artifacts from World War II.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
August 8
Tavern Night
5 p.m. - 8 p.m.; FREE
Take a sip of history while learning about Williams Ordinary, a historic tavern in Dumfries. Enjoy period music, meet costumed reenactors, and try your hand at 18th century games as you explore this local landmark. This year guests will be able to visit the new Revolutionary War memorial located behind Williams Ordinary, which honors Prince William County's role in America's fight for independence. Water's End Brewery will be on site serving historically-inspired brews. This is a free event; food and drink are available to purchase on site, and a portion of all proceeds will be donated to the Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation. Please note that there is no on-site parking at this year's program due to the new memorial; a free shuttle is located at Dumfries Town Hall at 17757 Main St., Dumfries, VA, a few blocks away from Williams Ordinary.
Williams Ordinary, 17674 Main St., Dumfries, VA. 703-792-1731.
August 17
Museum Family Monday: Farm Day
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.; $5 per person, ages 4 and up
Visit the Historic Haislip-Hall House to try your hand at some 19th century farm activities! Churn butter, crank ice cream, play historic games, and learn about what like was like on a farm before there was electricity. Adults must be able to participate with children. Click here to get your tickets.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
August 22
Rippon Lodge Bug and Bird Day
10 a.m. -1 p.m., $5 per person, kids under 6 free.
This event is a photographer, bird watcher and bug enthusiast delight! Join us as we explore the wonders of nature found at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Bring your binoculars and cameras to record the variety of insects and birds found every day at the historic site. Take a guided walking tour with our expert birder. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. Click here to get your tickets.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
August 22-23
Battle of Kettle Run Anniversary Tours
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; free, donations encouraged.
Join Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park staff and volunteers to commemorate the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Kettle Run. The August 26-27, 1862, battle, while small, was bloody and took a heavy toll on the soldiers who fought here. Visit the park for walking tours that will share the story of the first battle of the Civil War fought at Bristoe Station and the larger implications it had on the decisive Second Manassas Campaign. Battlefield tours will be offered at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
August 22
Battle of Kettle Run for Kids
2 p.m.; free, donations encouraged.
Immerse your children in the Battle of Kettle Run through hiking, toys, musket drills, artifacts, and more. Recommended for ages 6-15. Adults must be able to participate with children.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park. 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
August 27
In the Footsteps of the Excelsior Brigade: The Battle of Kettle Run, 164 Years Later
5 p.m.; free, donations encouraged.
Commemorate the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Kettle Run with a guided hike in the footsteps of the famed Excelsior Brigade as we explore their critical role in the battle. The tour will highlight the personal stories of soldiers who filled the ranks of the brigade, offering a human perspective on the experiences of those who fought there and the cost of battle. The program lasts approximately 90 minutes and includes about 1.5 miles of walking over uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park. 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
September
September 12 & 13
World War II Weekend at Rippon Lodge
11 a.m. – 3 p.m. daily; FREE, donations welcome.
Commemorate the Greatest Generation during this two-day event. See military equipment, armaments and historic military vehicles. Learn about medical care on and off the battlefield. Explore how citizens at home supported the war effort while viewing original WWII artifacts. Tours include information about Admiral Richard Black, WWII veteran, survivor of Pearl Harbor and the last owner of Rippon Lodge. Indoor self-guided tours are limited to 15 at a time. Families may enjoy crafts, music and more.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
September 19
Lucasville School Open House & Ice Cream Social
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Going to school was very different 100 years than it is today. Join the Prince William Office of Historic Preservation and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History for an open house to explore the one room school at Lucasville. Enjoy some ice cream, explore hands-on crafts and activities, and speak with local historians to learn about Northern Virginia’s African American history!
Lucasville School, 10516 Godwin Dr., Manassas, VA, 703-365-7895.
September 24
Cold War Virginia
7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
The Commonwealth played a central role in the United States’ involvement during the Cold War. Cold War historians Francis Gary Powers Jr. and Christopher Sturdevant tell these and other tales of espionage, heroism, and betrayal.
Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas, VA. 703-792-1731.
September 26
Brentsville Bluegrass Concert
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Bring your chairs, kick up your heels and enjoy some Bluegrass from Big Howdy at the Brentsville Courthouse public lot! Before the concert starts, self-guided tours of the grounds will be available. Food and beverages from Catfish on Wheels will be available for purchase.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd. Bristow, Virginia. 703-365-7895.
October
Saturday, October 3
Myths and Legends of Rippon Lodge Historic Site
11 a.m. & 2 p.m., $5 per person, audience over 12+
Join this special guided tour experience of the mysteries, myths, haunts and legends of Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Guest should be able to walk on uneven surfaces, grass, gravel, and stairs. Limited space and guests and advanced registration required at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
October 3
Battle of Bristoe Station Bus Tour
9 a.m.- 4 p.m.; $60 per person, advanced registration is required; lunch is included as part of the tour.
The Battle of Bristoe Station, fought on October 14, 1863, was the culmination of the last offensive campaign led by General Robert E. Lee in the Civil War. Portions of the battlefield have been preserved today, but the battlefield extends beyond park boundaries. Explore the entire battlefield and learn the details of the Battle of Bristoe Station from Historic Preservation staff and guides. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
October 10
163rd Anniversary of the Battle of Bristoe Station
Tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Join Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park staff and volunteers to commemorate the 163rd anniversary of the Battle of Bristoe Station, the climactic action of Robert E. Lee’s last offensive campaign of the Civil War. Take a walking tour of the battlefield and learn about the war’s last major battle fought in Prince William County.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
October 17
Bristoe Station Luminary
7 - 9 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Tour the Bristoe Station battlefield at night to see nearly 1,000 luminary candles placed for the soldiers who died at Bristoe Station during the Civil War.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10501 Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
October 23
Ghost Hunters Showing
7 - 8 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Did you know that Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre was featured on Ghost Hunters back in 2009? This Halloween season, bring your blankets and join us for a special outdoor screening at the very site where it all took place! Purchase tickets for the Ghost Tour of Brentsville Courthouse to dive deeper into the history behind the episode and learn what really happened here following the show. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
October 23
Ghost Tour of Brentsville Courthouse
$15 per person, advanced registration is required.
Following the viewing of Brentsville’s Ghost Hunters episode, tour the grounds and historic buildings of Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre. Experience the site by candlelight as you explore its past and hear chilling ghost stories that bring its history to life. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895
Oct 24
Road To Victory at Rippon Lodge
11 a.m.- 3 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome
Rippon Lodge Historic Site welcomes all to experience a day full of colonial living history demonstrations focused on the Revolutionary War. Witness historical vignettes, meet civilian camp followers, enslaved soldiers, and indigenous scouts. Enjoy making crafts, playing colonial era games, view other living history activities, and more.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
October 30
Ben Lomond Campfire Ghost Stories
7:30-9 p.m.; $5 per person, children 6 and under are free. Advanced registration is preferred.
Ben Lomond has a diverse and grim history as a Civil War hospital, a farm, and a private home. Over the years, many residents have claimed to see ghosts and other spooky happenings at the site. Is Ben Lomond haunted or not? Join us for an eerie evening around the campfire to hear some of the ghost stories associated with the historic site. Bring your own chair and flashlight. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
November
November 7
Drinks of the Revolution at Rippon Lodge
12 p.m., $20 per person, audience over 12+
Explore history through the flavors of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Learn about the history of tea, coffee and hot chocolate from the colonial period with this special foodways presentation. Samples of each will be provided. Limited space and guests and advanced registration required at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
November 14
Revolution on the Road: 250th Bus Tour
10 a.m. - 3 p.m., $50 per person, advanced tickets required.
In commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, join us for a trip along the old King’s Highway to learn about the role Prince William County played in the founding of our country 250 years ago! Meet at Rippon Lodge Historic Site where guides will take you along the route taken by George Washington and Comte de Rochambeau to Yorktown, that has become modern US 1, to see a variety of colonial and Revolutionary sites in our County. There will be several lunch options available on your own. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
November 19
1950s True Crime Prince William
7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
Prince William County has seen its share of murder cases that grabbed headlines in their day but have largely faded from the area's collective memory. In 1958 and 1959, two bizarre murder cases rocked the county. Join true crime author Zachary Ford in exploring these strange cases from Prince William’s past. This is a free lecture sponsored by Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.
Occoquan Town Hall, 314 Mill St., Occoquan, VA. 703-792-1731.
Saturday, November 21
Potomac People: Indigenous Tribes of Eastern Prince William
9:30 -10:30 a.m., $5 per person
Before Europeans came to the area, the Doegs inhabited the local region. For Native American Heritage Month, join us as we rediscover the Algonquian Nation during this boardwalk tour. The group will meet at the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk Parking Lot on Blackburn Road under the picnic shelter. Leashed pets are welcome to join, but not all parts of the hike are accessible for wheelchairs. Space is limited. Dress for the weather; bring water bottle; sunscreen and bug spray suggested. Advanced registration required at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Neabsco Creek Boardwalk, 15125 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA 22191.
November 21
Cook an Old Time Thanksgiving Meal Workshop
11 a.m.- 3 p.m.; $20 per person, advanced registration is required.
Prepare a Thanksgiving meal using techniques and equipment commonly used in the 19th century. From roasting meat and dressing with a reflector oven to baking bread and desserts, and boiling vegetables in cast-iron pots, learn how food was prepared in the days when wood fires and Dutch ovens were the norm for cooking, using authentic Victorian recipes. Come dressed appropriately for the weather. Tickets can be purchased at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
December
December 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 27-28
Holidays Through the Ages at Rippon Lodge
10 a.m. - 3 p.m., $5 per person, children under 6 are free.
Stroll through seasonal celebrations of the past at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. With interiors and exteriors richly decorated for the holidays, guests enjoy an in-depth exploration of seasonal festivities over the centuries. No groups larger than 15 at a time. Guided tour option at 11am. and 2 pm. Guests are advised to pre-purchase tickets at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.
December 4-7, 11-13
Gingerbread Houses at Rippon Lodge
11a.m. - 2 p.m.; FREE, donations welcome.
View and vote during a special contest of holiday gingerbread houses made by the community. Three categories for submissions are professional, amateur, and family. View and vote for one from each category on December 4 to the 7th, and winners will be announced on December 13th.
For rules, information and form to enter the contest, email Dan Goldstein at [email protected] by November 12, 2025. Guests are advised to pre-purchase tickets at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
December 11
Historic Holiday Concert at Brentsville Courthouse
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.; free, donations welcome
Ring in the holiday season for a special 20th anniversary with festive music performed by the Brentsville District High School Choir at the beautiful and historic Brentsville Courthouse. Doors open at 6:55pm for the concert, please plan on arriving early, this program typically fills to capacity. After the concert, join us around the bonfire to sing a few holiday songs yourself! Tickets are not required.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.