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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. Summer Program Registration Opens April 7, 2026.
Summer Camp Registration Opens March, 3, 2026. For more information and registration for PWC Summer Camps, click here.
February
February 1
Lucasville School Open House
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Free, donations welcome.
Join us at Lucasville School Historic Site to kick off African American History Month at Prince William County’s historic sites. Visit the reconstructed 19th century school used by the community of Lucasville and learn about Prince William’s African American history after the American Civil War.
Lucasville School, 10516 Godwin Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-365-7895.
February 14
Tastes of Home: African American Culture and American Cuisine
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; $20 per person.
Many Southern dishes have their roots in west and central African culture that enslaved workers brought to America. Participants will be able to prepare and taste African and Southern dishes in the historic slave quarter at Ben Lomond. Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the weather.
Click here to purchase tickets online.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr. Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
February 21 SOLD OUT
Prince William County African American History and Culture Bus Tour
10a.m.- 4p.m.; $50 per person, Reservations Required.
Join local historians on a daylong tour exploring the unique and powerful stories behind the African American history of Prince William County. We will travel the county, stepping back in time to the 1800s all the way through the 1960s. Stopping at many special, sometimes forgotten, sites to learn about the lifestyle, challenges, and the power of education in the African American community. The tour will stop for lunch but is not covered in the registration price. Click here to get your tickets.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
March
March 21
Prince William/Manassas History Symposium
8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $10 per person.
Join us for the 11th Annual Prince William/Manassas History Symposium! Each year local historians and experts explore the many facets of County history through a wide variety of lectures. Tickets are $10 for an all-day program. The Symposium also marks the release of the eighth issue of the Journal of Prince William County History, which will be on sale for the special one-day price of $5. Click here to get your tickets.
Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas, VA. 703-792-1731.
March 22SOLD OUT
Historic Homes of Prince William County Bus Tour
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $50 per person, advanced registration required.
As part of the 11th Annual Prince William/Manassas History Symposium, join us for the opportunity to tour private historic homes within Prince William County! Meet at Brenstville Courthouse Historic Centre for transportation to three historic sites that are rarely open to the public. Lunch is included in ticket price and pre-registration is required. One admission to the Symposium on March 21 is included in each bus tour ticket purchase.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-792-1731.
March 25
Take a Sip of History: Prohibition in Prince William
6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.; Free, donations welcome.
From 1920-1933 Federal law prohibited the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcohol in the United States. In an era of Prohibition, alcohol production and consumption did not cease in Prince William, but instead, went underground resulting in stills, shoot-outs, and more! Explore the stories and documents of Prince William’s dramatic distillation and prohibition history with local historians and members of the County Clerk’s Office while you sip your own cocktail at KO Distilling. KO Distilling at 10381 Central Park Dr STE 105, Manassas, VA 20110. Questions? Call 703-792-1731.
March 26
Prince William History Lecture Series: “Shipwreck on the Potomac: Disaster in Pursuit of Lincoln’s Killer” by Karen E. Stone
7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE
In April 1865, as the nation reeled from Lincoln’s assassination, the U.S. Navy scoured the Potomac River for John Wilkes Booth. Anchored near Blackistone Lighthouse, the barge Black Diamond waited in vain to intercept the assassin. That night, tragedy struck when the steamer Massachusetts collided with the vessel—sending the Black Diamond to the river’s bottom and leaving 87 men dead. Author Karen E. Stone reveals the story of a heroic pursuit turned tragic. This lecture is a FREE program jointly sponsored by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.
Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Ave, Manassas, VA. 703-792-1731.
Saturday, March 28
Rippon Lodge Easter Egg Trail
Timed hunts between 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.; $10 per person, kids under 4 only $5
The Easter Bunny made his fun activity trail for your enjoyment at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. Look for hidden objects, do physical tasks, see if you know US Presidents and more to receive your eggs as you walk through the historic home. Family members may join in the fun! Keep an eye out for those special prize eggs.
Bring your own basket. Timed walks for age groups, family units no larger than 4 allowed at one time. Walking along uneven surfaces and stairs. Parental supervision required. Hunt times are: 10:00-11:00 am for children 3 and under; 11:30 am to12:30 pm for ages 4-6; and 1:30 to 2:30 pm for ages 7 to 11. Space is limited. Click here to get your tickets.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.
April
April 4
Scrambled Egg Hunts at Brentsville Courthouse
10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m.; $35 per egg hunt.
Enjoy a unique spin on the usual egg hunt at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre! Peter Rabbit has been making trouble again at Brentsville. He’s taken all the candy and toys in our eggs, replacing them with tasks and riddles! He won’t give back the goods unless we solve the puzzles! Due to his mischievous nature, Peter made challenges tailored for each family who dares to try and solve them. He would like to include everyone and make it a fair and fun challenge for all! Can you find the all the eggs he hid, piece together the clues, and solve his puzzle?
Egg hunt areas are divided by family groups of six or less (purchase one ticket per group), with a time limit of 30 minutes for each egg hunt. Once your puzzle is completed, turn it in to receive a gift basket for each family to take home filled with treats, prizes, and more. For families who need special or individual assistance please contact Veronica Laughman, ADA Coordinator, at [email protected] or 703-792-8066 before April 4th so that staff may be able to make accommodations for your family. Click here to get your tickets.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
Saturday, April 11
The Women of Rippon Lodge
11 a.m. and 2 p.m., $5 per person
Explore this history of Rippon Lodge Historic Site and the Blackburn Family through the letters of their female members. This talk will focus on the primary documentation found for both the colonial and early federalist periods. Space is limited. Advanced ticket purchase recommended. Click here to get your tickets.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192, 703-499-9812.
April 14
Homeschool History Day: The Art of Government
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. & 1 p.m.- 3 p.m.; $10 per student; Advanced Registration is required
United States and Virginia government is shaped by experience. It is improved by learning from mistakes and injustices to make a better government of, by, and for the people. To commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution, for this year’s history homeschool day, students will examine and interact with the evolution of American government from the Revolution to the present day with activities at the historic fourth Prince William County courthouse in Brentsville. Discover how citizens of the past took action to shape the county’s history, and how students can do so today. Activities will include a mock trial, crafts, and hands-on activities. Click here to get your tickets.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
April 18
Civil War Drill Day at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre
11am-3pm, $5 per person, children 6 and under free.
In July 1861, Co. A 49th Virginia mustered into service at Brentsville. Join the 49th Virginia Living History Group for a day of living history as they practice the School of the Soldier. Interactive demonstrations with the public will be offered between 12pm-2pm including mustering in the courthouse (at 12pm) and drill on the lawn. Tours of Brentsville’s Civil War history will be offered at 11am & 2pm.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
April 25
American Battlefield Trust Annual Park Day at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Join the staff at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park and the American Battlefield Trust at Park Day 2026! Park Day is a nationwide event that encourages Civil War enthusiasts to help maintain, restore and preserve Civil War sites through volunteerism. Join us for a fun and rewarding day of work at Bristoe Station Battlefield. Projects will include litter pick up, cleaning cemeteries, and trail maintenance throughout the 162-acre park. Wear sturdy work shoes, bring gloves, and remember sunscreen. Tools and snacks will be provided. Meet in the parking lot off Iron Brigade Avenue. Please no pets.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park. The parking lot is located off Iron Brigade Unit Ave., Bristow, VA. 703-366-3049.
May
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.
May 2
Historic Preservation Month Bus Tour
11 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $50 per person, advanced registration required.
In commemoration of Historic Preservation Month, join staff on a special to explore our current preservation projects! Meet at Brenstville Courthouse Historic Centre for transportation to the Williams Dawe House, Woodlawn, and Ned Distiller House to learn out their history and preservation. Lunch is included in ticket price and pre-registration is required.
Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, 12229 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-365-7895.
May 2
Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Rippon Lodge
11 a.m., $5 per person
This historical hardhat tour takes visitors into spaces not available during the standard Rippon Lodge Historic Site tour. Learn a little more history from behind-the-scenes. Space is limited and no one under 18. Advanced ticket purchase required at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Rd., Woodbridge, VA. 703-499-9812.
May 15
Walking Tours of Historic Prince William Towns: Bristow
6 - 7 p.m.; FREE
Explore the historic center of Bristow, a small town integrally connected with the Orange & Alexandria Railroad and the nearby Bristoe Station Battlefield. Please note that this tour will include less than 1 mile of walking.
10710 Bristow Rd., Bristow, VA. 703-792-1731.
May 16
Ben Lomond Day
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.; FREE.
Ben Lomond's history spans centuries, from a Civil War hospital to a presidential retreat to a working farm. Experience the site's varied history all in one day through talks, demonstrations, activities, games, farm animals, tractors and more.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
May 28
Prince William History Lecture Series: “’Better Known than Acknowledged’: The Lees of Stratford and the Cause of Liberty” by Dr. Gordon Blaine Steffey
7 – 8:30 p.m.; FREE
Of Richard Henry Lee, John Adams famously observed that he was "better known than acknowledged," an observation that applies to the entire revolutionary generation of Lees reared at Stratford in the Northern Neck of Virginia. Dr. Steffey joins us to discuss the making of these Northern Neck radicals and the critical role they played in the founding, from the earliest days of dissent to the formation of a new political union of "free and independent" states and beyond.
This lecture is a FREE program jointly sponsored by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.
Williams Ordinary, 17674 Main St, Dumfries, VA. 703-792-1731.
June
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
June 12
Walking Tours of Historic Prince William Towns: Quantico
2:00 – 4:30 p.m.; FREE
Visit Quantico, a unique community located entirely within the Marine Corps Base Quantico. Due to base security restrictions, this tour has a limited capacity and will require attendees to pre-register with the Marine Corps Base prior to June 12th. Attendees will meet at the Marine Corps Museum parking lot to meet the shuttle bus for transport to the town. All attendees will receive emailed instructions about obtaining security access; space is limited and pre-registration for the tour itself is required.
1775 Semper Fidelis Way, Triangle, VA. 703-792-1731.
June 15
Museum Family Day at Ben Lomond: Games and Toys of the Past
10 a.m. - 11 a.m., $5 per person, ages 4 and up
Before television and computers, children and adults found entertainment in hands-on games and simple amusements. Ben Lomond Historic Site will host participants and provide instruction in some of the most popular pastimes of the era, including dominoes, cribbage, tops, graces, checkers, Shut the Box, Captain’s Mistress, and more. Participants will also make a simple toy to take home. Adults must be able to participate with children. Get tickets at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets.
Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Dr., Manassas, VA. 703-367-7872.
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 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
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.
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. Advanced ticket purchase required at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets.
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
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 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. Get tickets at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets.
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 at https://pwcparks.info/hptickets.
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.