Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Crime & Punishment: Lashes for Girl Thief (1899)

Washington Post (DC)
17 April 1899

Lashes for Girl Thief
Special to the Post

Manassas, Va., April 16 -- In the Mayor's office here yesterday afternoon there was a scene enacted which revived recollections of the whipping post law of this State, long since repealed, when Mary Ball, colored, by consent of her father, Tom Ball, received ten lashes on the bare back, well laid on by Sergt. B. N. Merchant, as the penalty for the larceny of  lot of wearing apparel. The Legislature, at its last session, passed an act authorizing the administration of stripes as a penalty for misdemeanors in the case of minors, with consent of the parent or guardian.


Tuesday, February 25, 2020

PWHPF: March 2020 Events

March 2020
March Events and Programs
Including the 6th Annual History Symposium
The grounds of the historic sites are open daily from dawn until dusk and the sites are open for tours during special events and by appointment. Call (703) 792-4754 to schedule your tour today.
Upcoming Events at Ben Lomond Historic Site
10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas, VA
(703) 367-7872
History and Science of Cooking:
Traditional St. Patricks Day Meal
March 14 | 10am–1pm | $10| Ages 8+
Help prepare a St. Patrick's Day meal consisting of Ham, Potatoes, and Cabbage, Irish Coddle, and Soda Bread prepared in traditional cookware over open fire. We will be in the slave cabin using the indoor hearth, however the building does not have environmental control so dress for the weather. Once the food is prepared participants can sample if they wish.

Women's History Tours of Ben Lomond
March 14 | 11am–12pm & 1pm-2pm | $5| All Ages
Celebrate Women's History Month with two exclusive tours of Ben Lomond Historic Site focusing on the female personalities of the property. Tours are $5 per person and will last approximately one hour.
Upcoming Event at Rippon Lodge Historic Site
15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA
(703) 499-9812
Girl Scout Badge Days
March 7 & 14 | 9am–12pm & 1pm-3pm | $10 | Ages 6-11
Come and earn a Brownie or Junior Girl Scout Badge at a historic site! Brownie badges held in the morning and Junior badges conducted in the afternoon. Two Saturdays only! Sessions will run rain or shine and space is limited. Girl Scouts are required to bring additional materials or clothing depending on badge.
Advanced registration required. Contact (703) 499-9812 for details.
12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA
(703) 365-7895
Open Hearth Cooking at the Haislip Hall Farmhouse
March 14 | 1pm–4pm | $40 | Ages 10+
Explore the lives of African Americans in 19th century form the perspective of Brentsville Courthouse. As we tour the site, learn about how they lived, their experiences and how they were treated in the community. Hear about the hardships they faced, such as enslavement and a lack of rights, and the triumphs they achieved before the county seat moved in 1893.

Women's History at Brentsville Courthouse
March 28 | 11am–12pm & 1pm-2pm | $5 | Ages 6+
Explore the role women played in the 19th Century from the perspective of Brentsville Courthouse. As we tour the site, learn about the woman’s role in the family, in society, how they lived. Hear about the different types of hardships they faced, such as during childbirth, a lack of rights, and more.
Upcoming Events at Old Manassas Courthouse
9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA
(703) 792-4754
6th Annual Prince William - Manassas
History Symposium
March 21 | 8:30am–6pm | $10 | Ages 10+
Our community has a long and rich history. Founded in 1731, Prince William County is one of the oldest counties in Northern Virginia. Join several local historic organizations as we celebrate this history at our Sixth Annual Prince William-Manassas History Symposium. Topics include:
  • Freedman’s Bureau in PWC by Bill Backus
  • The Legend of “Stonewall” by Dr. Chris Mackowski
  • Prince William County’s Frontiersman: Simon Kenton by Mark Wilcox
  • The Life of Robert Carter III, Virginia’s First Emancipator by Robert Teagle
  • WWII Lady Spies of the OSS by Ellen Butler
Release of the second edition of the Journal of Prince William History followed by a reception with Manassas Museum Curator with refreshments and drinks. Co-sponsored by the Manassas Museum, Prince William County Historic Commission and Historic Prince William. Reservations required, for more information contact (703) 792-4754.

Historic Homes Tour of Prince William County
March 22 | 10am–4pm | $50 | Ages 10+
Join us for a special day of visiting historic private homes in Prince William County. Get a rare and exclusive look at some of our most unique historic homes.

Historic Preservation Division Lecture Series:
The Women's Sufferage Movement and The 19th Amendment
March 26 | 7pm–9pm | FREE | Ages 10+
Join us as we host National Park Ranger Lauren Devore for this Special National Women's month program. This August marks the 100th anniversary of passage of the 19th Amendment. This struggle for women to obtain the right to vote took several generations of diligent work. People like Alice Paul, Alva Belmont, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Harry Burn and Fredrick Douglass forever have their names etched in the legacy of this struggle for women to obtain this monumental civil right. Ranger Devore will present a timeline of Women's Suffrage Movement.
Historic Preservation Spotlight
Old Manassas Courthouse

Since its creation in 1731 Prince William has had six different courthouses, the first five of which have been in separate locations across the county. Typically, the decisions to move the county seats were hotly contested and cloaked with controversy. In 1892 after a third referendum in twenty years, and amongst the growing importance of the nearby railroad and allegations of corruption, Manassas citizens won the debate to relocate the fourth courthouse in Brentsville to the young city of Manassas. Completed in 1893, Prince William’s Romanesque revival-style fifth courthouse was the site where President Taft attended the 1911 Peace Jubilee to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas. This month the Old Manassas Courthouse hosts the 6th Annual Prince William – Manassas History Symposium.

Image courtesy of Smithsonian

9250 Lee Ave, Manassas, VA 20110

Monday, February 24, 2020

Deed: Bill of Sale: Macrae to Webster (enslaved person/emancipation)

In November 1815, Daniel Webster left a Will that stated that he left his "wife Lucy Webster (whom I purchased from the late John Macrae esq.) and to my child James Webster -- their freedom and enfranchisement forever, excluding all claim or right to them of any persons whatsoever."


Daniel was a free man of Color who purchased Lucinda from her master, John Macrae, for $60 as recorded in PWCo Deed Book 4, pg. 258.



PWCo Deed Book 4, pg. 258

Know all men by these presents that I John Macrae of Prince William County for & in consideration of the sum of sixty dollars & fifty-five cents paid by the note of Betsey Tebbs & Thomas Chapman of Dumfries due on the 20th of January next the receipt where of is hereby acknowledged hath bargained sold aliened & confirmed & by these presents doth bargain sell alien & confirm unto Daniel Webster a mulatto woman Lucinda to him the said Daniel Webster his heirs Executors & administrators or assigns forever & the said John Macrae his heirs Exrs & admrs warrants & defends that the said Lucinda to the said Webster his heirs Exrs Admrs & assigns against the claim or claims of all & every person or persons whatsoever.   In Witness whereof the said John Macrae hath hereunto set his hand & seal this fifth day of October 1810.

Jno. Macrae {seal}

Witnessed by 
Wm. Smith
Thomas Chapman

B. It is understood by the parties to the above bill of sale that the woman Lucinda therein mentioned is not to leave the service of sd. Macrae until Xmas next.

Daniel [X his mark] Webster

Witness
Wm. Smith
Thomas Chapman

At a Court held for Prince William County FEbruary 4th 1811
   This Deed from John Macrae to Daniel Webster was acknowledged by the sd. Macrae and ordered to be recorded.

Teste, J. Williams

---------------


After purchasing Lucy, Daniel petitioned the Virginia House of Delegates to emancipate her.

To the Honorable the Speaker and House of Delegates of the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

Your Petitioner Daniel Webster humbly represents that he is a freeman of Colour now in the decline of life being fifty eight years old. That while a Slave he connected himself with a Mulatto Woman as his wife by whom he has Several Children and who is nearly as old as himself. That lately he purchased his said wife (whose name is Lucy) and being unwilling to hold in bondage one thus connected with him and the mother of his children and especially fearing the Consequences of dying she still remaining a Slave - he is exceedingly Solicitous to emancipate her. That where they are known & have made some Patrons they are able to live in comfort, but to be turned out into another and Strange State where they are unknown at their time of life would be to cloud their last days with Misery and want and perhaps to throw them in their old age upon the Charity of the World. This must be the consequence of his wifes Emancipation unless your Honorable body will under the Peculiar Circumstances of the Case relax the rigor of the law and permit his wife after her liberation to remain in her native Country. This indulgence your Petitioner humbly prays and as in duty bound will ever pray &c [etc.]. Daniel Webster Prince Wm. County Nov. 18

Cite: Webster, Daniel: Petition, Prince William County, 1812-12-11, Legislative Petitions Digital Collection, Library of Virginia, Richmond, Va

Sunday, February 23, 2020

Sunday's Obituary: Capt. Robert H. Tyler

Daily Dispatch (Virginia)
28 January 1902

Esteemed Resident of Prince William

LEESBURG, VA., January 27 --(Special)--Captain Robert H. Tyler, of Haymarket, Prince William county, died on Friday night, and his funeral took place yesterday.

Captain Tyler was one of the most gallant soldiers of the Confederacy, serving during the war in the Eighth Virginia Infantry, in Hunton's Brigade.

While a prisoner of war he was at one time with General W. H. F. ("Rooney") Lee put into solitary confinement, to be executed in case certain prisoners held by the Confederate authorities were put to death. But as this did not occur, they were eventually exchanged.

Captain Tyler served at one time in the Virginia House of Delegates, and had all his life been prominent in the affairs of his part of the State. He leaves a widow and a large family of children, all of whom are grown. He was about 63 years of age, and was a son of the late Bailey Tyler, farmer and lawyer, and was born in Leesburg, the family removing about fifty years to to "The Shelter," their beautiful farm in Prince William county.


Friday, February 21, 2020

Will: Daniel Webster (emancipation)

Will of Daniel Webster
PWCo Will Book K, pg. 502

In the name of God amen I Daniel Webster of the county of Prince William & state of Virginia, feeling weak of body but of sound mind mind and intilect do make and ordain this my last will and testament hereby revoking all others.

Item. I will and bequeath to my wife Lucy Webster (whom I purchased from the late John Macrae esq.) and to my child James Webster -- their freedom and enfranchisement forever, excluding all claim or right to them of any persons whatsoever.

Item. I give and bequeath to my wife Lucy Webster every thing I have claim to or possess in this world, property of every description, real, personal, or mixed and I further more make and appoint my said wife Lucy, the executrix of this my last will and it is my wish and desire that some friendly citizen, should aid and assist her in the execution hereof; In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 23rd day of November, 1815.

Daniel [X his mark] Webser {seal}

Signed, sealed & delivered in presece of
Wm. S. Colquhoun
Fra. Sd. Dunnington
C. W. Colquhoun

At a court held for Prince William county,. February 5th 1816

This last will and testament of Daniel Webster deceased was presented to the Court and being proved by Wm. S. Colquhoun, Fra: Sd. Dunnington and C. W. Colquhoun is ordered to be recorded.

Teste,

Phil. D. Dawe   Cl Cur


Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Wedding Wednesday: McKinney/Wright (1900)

Democratic Advocate (Westminster, MD)
1 December 1900

A Virginia Wedding
Reported for the Democratic Advocate

The most beautiful home wedding witnessed for many a day was that which united the hearts and hands of Miss Minnie E. McKinney and Mr. S. Elbert Wright, at the home of the bride's sister, Mrs. G. W. Flory, near Nokesville, Prince William county, Virginia, on November 21.

More than an hour before the appointed time the parlor, which was tastefully decorated with evergreens and white chrysanthemums, was filled to overflowing with friends who had gathered to witness the ceremony.

Promptly at 5 o'clock p.m. the bridal party entered the parlor, preceded by the bridesmaid and groomsman, Miss. M. Katie Wright, sister of the groom, of Bridgewater, Rockingham county, Va., and Mr. A. B. McKinney, brother of the bride, of Sykesville, Md., and were met by Rev. S. H. Fory, who performed the ceremony. The bride was attired in a beautiful costume of pure white organdie, trimmed with white satin ribbons, with slippers and gloves to match, and carrying a bouquet of Bride's Roses and white chrysanthemums. The bridesmaid was dressed to match the bride. The tall and handsome groom wore the conventional black with white tie and black gloves.

After receiving the best wishes and congratulations they retired to the diningroom, where  delightful wedding supper was served.

Among those present were Mr. R. C. McKinney, father of the bride, a popular and retired farmer of Carroll county, Md., and Mr. H. L. Bushey, of Maryland; Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Flory, Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Flory, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Flory, Mr. and Mrs. Noah Garber, Mr. and Mrs. Harpine, Mr. William Hale and daughter, Miss Fleta, Mrs. John Baker, Mrs. Lillie Baker; Misses Laura and Iva Kane, Mollie and Sallie Hederick, Vernie Flory, Bertha and Rosa Holsinger, Maly, Minnie and Edna Flory; Messrs. Ben Hederick, Ira and Heacott Flory, George Nichols, Roy, Jacob and Johnny Flory.

The bride received many useful and handsome presents, consisting of silver and queensware, linen, etc.

On Thursday morning the happy couple were driven to Manassas, wher ethey boarded the 9:30 train for Harrisonburg, Va.

The bride wore a travelling suit of blue with white trimmints.





Saturday, February 15, 2020

Newspaper Tidbit: Impeachment of Judges

Alexandria Gazette
24 January 1876

IMPEACHMENT OF JUDGES

The Richmond Enquirer of this morning says: A sensation was created in the House Saturday, where Mr. Purcell, Delegate from the county of Prince William, arose from his seat with a formidable-looking document in his hand, and said:

"Mr. Speaker: There has been placed in my hands a petition and affidavit as a part thereof of a respectable member of the bar and citizen of Prince William, asking that charges of a grave character against Aylett Nicol, Judge of the County Court of Prince William county be investigated. As a very humble representative of that county, it is my solemn duty this to present, and ask that it be referred to the proper committee, and in so doing so I desire to say that I am prompted by no feeling akin to the partisan, but by a desire to afford every opportunity for vindication and exoneration on the one hand, and on the other to forever preserve the judicial ermine in this Commonwealth in its spotless purity."

Mr. J. J. Davies, of the Prince William bar, brings these charges against Judge Nicol, and they are of the gravest possible nature. It is alleged, among other things, that through his court he has speculated in Carboro lots in Potomac City, that he has bought claims from his clients while holding their funds in his hands as judge, and that he agreed to accept a bribe of five hundred dollars to influence him in the appointment of commissioners to condemn certain lands. Judge Nicol is a native of Rappahanock county, but has resided in Prince William for thirty years. This is the first time in our journalistic experience that a Virginian judge has been accused of corrupt practices. The paper was referred.

The Whig, in alluding to the affair, says: -- The paper presented in the House of Delegates on Saturday, by Mr. Purcell, in regard to Judge Aylett Nicol, of Prince William county, is the affidavit of James J. Davies, charging Judge Nicol with being interested in certain lots in the town of Carbero, which were condemned for the use of the Potomac and Manassas Railroad, and damages assessed by commissioners appointed by him; that in co partnership with another person he fraudulently obtained assignments of the interests of other parties in the condemned lots; that having obtained a judgment for over $1,600 for a female client in the Circuit Court, he obtained an assignment of her right to the same for $300, one third of which was to be his fee for services, when he had in possession funds exceeding $1,600 subject to the said judgment; that as a judge he agreed to accept a bribe of $500 to appoint a new commission to assess damages for land belonging to a certain party which had been condemned for the use of a railroad, when the owner of the land and the attorney for the railroad company compromised the matter and the $500 bribe was not paid, etc. Upon this recital Mr. Jas. J. Davies prays an investigation, and gives a list of persons and papers that he desires to be sent for, including himself.

The Dispatch says: The impeachment of Judge Stevens, of Nelson, who won a considerable amount of money from Delegate Fowle at draw-polka, is talked about.  Friends of Stevens intimate that if such proceedings are commenced Judge Stevens, by summoning members of the House as witnesses in his behalf, can put those members in an embarrassing position.


Friday, February 14, 2020

Inventory of Jesse Barron (partial/enslaved persons only) (1811)

Inventory of Jesse Barron (partial/enslaved persons only)
PWCo WB K, pg. 128

Pursuant to an order of the worshipful Court of Prince Wm. Cty. bearing date the 4th of March 1811 we the undersigned commissioners therein named met at the house of the late Jesse Barron on the 12th inst. and after being first sworn proceeded to view and appraise the personal property of the sd. Barron and do make report thereof as follows viz.

Negroes

James about the age of 30 years - $350
Cyrus about the age of 25 years - 350
Dick about the age of 12 years - 228
Cloe about the age of 60 years - 50
Mary about the age of 50 years - 150
Amy about the age of 20 years - 266.67
Lucy about the age of 15 years - 266.67
Dolly about the age of 17 years - 250


... Recapitulation

Valuation of Negroes - $1911.34


... Signed
Gerard Alexander
Philip Alexander
Alexander Compton

Countery signed
Hendley Barron, Administrator

At a Court held for Prince William County Dec. 2d 1811

This Inventory and appraisement of the Estate of Jesse Barron Dec'd was returned to the Court and ordered to be recorded.

Teste,
J. Williams  Ct. Cur.



Monday, February 10, 2020

Will: Moore Hooff (1825)

Will of Moore Hooff
PWCo Will Book M, pg. 506

In the Name God Amen I Moore Hooff of the County of Prince William and State of Virginia being old but of sound mind and memory Bless God for the same calling to mind the Mortality of my body and knowing it is appointed for all Men once to die do Constitute and ordain this my last will and testament, that is first and principally of all I recommend my Soul into the Hands of Almity God and my body to the earth to be buried in a decent christian burial at the discretion of my Executors, not doubting but at the General Resurrection I shall receive the same again by the Mighty power of God. And as touching my Estate wherewith it hath pleased God to Bless me with in this Life, I give and bequeath in the following Manner.

Viz: Two Feather Beds and Bedsteads, two sheets to each Bed, one cotton counterpane to each Bed, two blankets to each bed, also two yarn bed covers to each bed, likewise, two pillars and one Boulster to each Bed, also one Table and four chairs one pot and one oven six plates and a dish and half dozen knives and forks and also one cow which was my loving wife's Property before our marriage contract.

Second I give also to my loving Wife Nancy Hoff two choice horses and one side saddle three choice cows and also half my stock of sheep and hogs, half of my household and kitchen furniture except two beds and furniture and also the half of my crop that is made growing, and to have full and peaceable possession of my house kitchen and garden and a reasonable supply of firewood until she can get her full part of the Property I have given her.

Thirdly I give to my daughter Pamelia three Negroes namely Eliza, Lucy-Anne, and Harrison, one choice bed and bedstead two sheets and two blankets one cotton counterpane one quiilt and two yarn bedcovers two pillars and one boulster one tea kettle one table one cupboard one bureau and twenty five dollars in cash as soon as it can be raised out of the sale of my Property.

And fourthly, all my lands and the balance of my property that I have not will'd to be sold and equally divided after my just debts are paid with this exception I give my daughter Frances Cornwell one hundred dollars more than her equal part of the sale of my Property, and my son Cornelius Hoff fifty dollars more than the equal part of the sale of said property and my desire is that my old Woman Winney should be given this indulgence by my Executors to let her live with any part of my family she choses or chose a master.  Lastly I do hereby constitute and ordain my son Thomas Hoff and M. James Fewell Executors of this my last will and Testament.   In Witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal this 24th of May 1825.

Moore Hoff's {seal}

Signed sealed and delivered in presence of
George Bradfield
Orpha [X her mark] Bradfield

At a Court held for Prince William County December 3rd 1827.

This last will and testament of Moore Hooff deceased was returned to the Court and being proved by the oaths of the Witnesses thereto the same is ordered to be recorded.

Teste,
Philip D. Dawe  Ct Cur.

Sunday, February 9, 2020

Manassas News: Investigation of Prince William Jail... (1912)

Alexandria Gazette
23 March 1912

MANASSAS NEWS ITEMS

Investigation of Prince William Jail
Enthusiastic Good-Roads Meeting at Nokesville

(Special to the Gazette)

Manassas, Va., March 23. -- The State Board of Charities and Corrections have called on the Prince William county committee for their annual report as to the conditions of the county jail and almshouse. This committee consists of Dr. H. M. Clarkston, of Haymarket and Mrs. Emily C. Round and Dr. J. Mayre Lewis, of Manassas. Information as to any case of indigent, crippled or deformed children needing hospital treatment is specially called for, by the secretary of the Commonwealth in order that the board may endeavor to have such subjects treated free of cost. The board urges that the county make better arrangements for its poor, and especially the feeble minded children and advises that the "Poor Farm" be sold and arrangements provided which will be more in accord with the present ideas of twentieth-century civilization.

At a meeting of the Manassas Rod and Gun Club a committee was appionted to petition Commonwealth's Attorney Thomas H. Lion, for an enforcement of the law with regard to the obstruction at Occoquan creek.  Last spring the board of supervisors of Prince William and Fairfax counties appointed committees to investigate and report upon such obstruction, which has done, but so far as ascertained no further action of the respective boards in relation to the matter has been taken.

There was a large and enthusiastic good roads meeting at Nokesville, Wednesday at which Melvin C. Hazen of Washington, presided. A committee was appointed to canvass Brentsville Magisterial district in the interest of a bond issue for public highway improvement. The committee will recommend a bond issue for the district of $36,000 to be apportioned as follows: $12,000 for the Quebec-Miami Highway; $9,000 for road from Nokesville to Greenwich; $8,000 for roadway from Nokesville to Aden; $7,000 for roadway from Brentsville to intersect with the proposed international highway.

The bi-county convention of the W.C.T.U. embracing the counties of Fauquier and Prince William were in session here yesterday with a large attendance of delegates. Mrs. Sarah Hoge, state president of the association, and noted for her ability as an oratorical and forceful speaker delivered a very interesting address in the Presbyterian Church last night to a large audience.

Governor Mann has appointed Mrs. Emily C. Round to represent Virginia at the Southern Sociological Congress to be held in Nashville, Tenn., on May 7-10.

A valuable horse belonging to Harry Tyler was killed by train No. 13 on the Manassas branch of the Southern, Thursday.  The animal was appraised at $230.



Saturday, February 8, 2020

Lost (but ever found?): Esther Edmonson search for her Father (1881)

Plain Dealer (Cleveland, OH)
3 February 1881

Esther M. Edmonson, fifteen years old, writes from Nokesville, Prince William county, Virginia, to Police Superintendent Schmitt inquiring for information of her father, Tyler B. Edmonson, formerly a printer, in the government printing office at Washington and supposed to be living in Cleveland. He ran away with Mary J. Kimball, of Iowa, on account of religious differences of relatives and married her. She died when Esther was eight months old and the babe was given to a family in Virginia to raise.  For two years the father corresponded with the family and then ceased writing.  The daughter desires to find her father.



Friday, February 7, 2020

Inventory of Henry D. Hooe (partial/enslaved persons only) (1807)

Inventory of Henry D. Hooe
PWCo Will Book I, pg. 340

Agreeable to the annexed order of Prince William County Court we the Subscribers have inventory'd and appraised the Estate of Henry D. Hooe decease'd after being first sworn in manner following to wit:

One Negro Man Peter - $334.34
One Negro Man Henry - $400.00
One Girl Martha - $150
One Girl Sidney - $100
Milly and Child Betty - $350
One Girl Cate - $150
One Girl Ann - $250
One Woman Milly - $80
Hanna & Child Danl - $300
Pall & Child John - $250
One Man Nace - $300
One Man John - $150
One Boy Edmund - $150


... In obedience to an order of the Court of Prince Willm Cty bearing date the 4th day of May 1807 we the undersigned being first sworn, did on the 7th day of May inst. proceed to view and appraise the personal estate of Henry Dade Hooe dec'd of which the above is an accurate statement.

Gerard Alexander
Wm. Foote
Wm. Stuart
Rd. Foote

The above is a true and perfect Inventory of all the Goods and Chattels of Henry D. Hooe dec'd to the best of my knowledge.

William Shaw  D. S. for Charles Ewell

At a Court held for Prince Wm. County July 6th 1807

This Inventory and appraisement of the Estate of Henry D. Hooe dec'd was returned to the Court and ordered to be recorded.

Teste, J. Williams Ct. Cur.



Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Will: James Rose (1816)

Will of James Rose
PWCo WB K, pg. 532

In the name of God Amen, I James Rose of the county of Prince William and state of Virginia being very sick & weak but of perfect mind and memory, and knowing the frailty of human nature, do commit my body to the Earth to be buried in a decent manner and my soul to my beloved Jesus who gave it me, to dispose of as he may see fit.  Item, I give and bequeath to my well beloved wife Jane Rose all my property that I may die possessed of, to dispose of as she may think proper, after first paying all my just and lawfull debt. Also, I appoint my well beloved wife Jane Rose my whole and sole Executrix to this my last will and testament revoking all others. In witness whereof I have affixed my hand and seal this Twenty Fourth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and fifteen.

James Rose {seal}

Teste
H. Barron
Ann {X her mark} Babb [?]
Elizabeth {X her mark} Petty

At a court continued & held for Prince William county April 2nd 1816

This last will and testament of James Rose decd was presented to the court and being proved by the oath of Elizabeth Petty is ordered to be certified. AT a court of Quarterly sessions continued and held for said county June 4th 1816, This last will and Testament of James Rose decd was fully proved by the oath of Hendly Barron and ordered to be recorded.

Teste
P. D. Dawe Ct. Cur.


Monday, February 3, 2020

PWHPF: February 2020 Events

February 2020
February Events and Programs
Plus 6th Annual History Symposium Save the Date
The grounds of the historic sites are open daily from dawn until dusk and the sites are open for tours during special events and by appointment. Call (703) 792-4754 to schedule your tour today.
Upcoming Event at Lucasville School
10516 Godwin Drive, Manassas, VA
(703) 365-7895
Open on Weekends in February
Feb 1-2, Feb 8-9, Feb 15-16, Feb 22-23, Feb 29 | 11am–4pm | FREE | All Ages
Join us as we celebrate African American History Month as historic Lucasville School during our open house weekends in February. Visit the reconstructed 19th century school used by the community of Lucasville. Learn surprising facts of African American history in Prince William County and throughout the Northern Virginia region. Each weekend enjoy a different activity in the schoolhouse, including activities, crafts and exhibits.
Upcoming Event at Ben Lomond Historic Site
10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas, VA
(703) 367-7872
Everyday Full of Work:
The African American Experience at Ben Lomond
Feb 15 | 11am–4pm | $5 | All Ages
We are proud to present special guided tours in recognition of African American History Month. Visitors can explore the historic home and the original slave quarter to learn about the enslaved population living at Ben Lomond in the years before the Civil War. Visit spaces not ordinarily open to the public and participate in hands-on activities to learn about some of the chores the enslaved were expected to complete, as well as the lives of the enslaved community. Additionally, join us for the unveiling of a new interactive virtual reality experience.
Upcoming Event at Rippon Lodge Historic Site
15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge, VA
(703) 499-9812
Second Virginia at Rippon Lodge
Feb 15 | 11am–4am | $5 | Ages 6+ 
Learn more about the Second Virginia and the Revolutionary War during this special President's Day weekend event. Living history interpreters, encampments, period, cooking, drilling, tours and more for the whole family to enjoy.
12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA
(703) 365-7895
African American History at Brentsville Courthouse
Feb 22 | 11am–12pm & 1-2pm | $5 | Ages 6+
Explore the lives of African Americans in 19th century form the perspective of Brentsville Courthouse. As we tour the site, learn about how they lived, their experiences and how they were treated in the community. Hear about the hardships they faced, such as enslavement and a lack of rights, and the triumphs they achieved before the county seat moved in 1893.
Upcoming Event at Old Manassas Courthouse
9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA
(703) 792-4754
Espionage in Prince William County: Preparation for D Day
Feb 27 | 7–9pm | FREE EVENT | Ages 10+
Join us as representatives from the Cold War Museum located at Vint Hill Farm outside of Gainesville introduce the secret story of the formation of the Ghost Army with General George S. Patton it's fictitious commander, and communications originating from Vint Hill in Prince William / Fauquier County code named Operation FORTITUDE, a deception that was instrumental in fooling the German High Command leading to Allied success at Normandy in World War II.
Upcoming Event at Barnes House Historic Site
5049 Waterway Drive, Montclair, VA
(703) 499-9812
Barnes House Open House
Feb 29 | 11am–3pm | FREE EVENT | Ages 4+ 
Visit one of Prince William County's newest "old" buildings! The Barnes House has seen a lot of change in its history, from tavern, to private home and now a museum. Learn about the Barnes family's amazing history during the Reconstruction-era and about the restoration of the building. Tours will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
6th Annual History Symposium
Save the Date: March 21, 2020
View Symposium
Details Here
Historic Preservation Spotlight
The Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation
 
The Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation is a 501(c)3 that proudly supports Prince William County's efforts to preserve the County's past and fund projects that restore county-owned historic properties and structures.
Join the Foundation on Friday, February 7, at Sweeny Barn in Old Town Manassas, for the Foundation's First Annual Fundraising Gala, A Valentine Mardi Gras! Tickets are $60 each (advanced tickets only) and include dinner, a welcome drink, a great photo op spot, some light entertainment, and a raffle. The event is a perfect way to brighten a mid-winter's night and support the preservation of Prince William County's History. Read more...

Feb 7 | 7:30-10:30pm | $60 (advanced tickets only)

Historic District, 9310 Discovery Blvd
Old Town Manassas, VA 20109