Residents in Fairfax County, Virginia, can step back in time for free with guided tours of historic sites and a new challenge that lets visitors explore the county’s past at their own pace.
The Fairfax County Park Authority announced that it will offer two free ways to explore local history as part of Fairfax250, the county’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The September Sundays Free Tour Series brings guided programs to seven historic sites on Sept. 13, 20 and 27. For those who prefer to explore on their own schedule, the Fairfax250 Adventure Patch offers a self-guided experience across the county.
September Sunday tours will be offered at Colvin Run Mill, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Green Spring Gardens, Historic Huntley and Sully Historic Site.
The series also gives visitors access to two buildings that are not typically open for regular public tours.
The Spindle Sears House in Historic Centreville is a Sears, Roebuck & Co. kit home built in 1935. Visitors can also tour the more-than-200-year-old Frying Pan Spring Meeting House at Frying Pan Farm Park.
Each stop highlights a different piece of Fairfax County history.
“Visitors can experience working mills, historic homes and gardens, archaeology and farm life while hearing stories of freedom seekers and others whose lives connect Fairfax County to the nation’s larger story,” the county said.
Even though the tours are free, space is limited and you have to register in advance.
The Fairfax250 Adventure Patch gives visitors another way to discover the county’s history, and they can do it on their own schedule.
Participants complete six activities centered around three themes: learning, sharing and doing. Those who complete the challenge earn a commemorative Fairfax250 patch.
The September Sundays Free Tour Series and Fairfax250 Adventure Patch are sponsored by the Fairfax250 Commission.
More information, registration for September Sundays and details on the Fairfax250 Adventure Patch are available on the Fairfax250 webpage.
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