5 Historic Sites in Prince William County That You Shouldn't Miss

Ben Lomond and its outbuildings were constructed for Benjamin Tasker Chinn in 1832. Confederate forces used Ben Lomond as a hospital following the 1861 Battle of First Manassas. Signatures of Federal soldiers who occupied the property in 1862 are still visible inside the house. Tour the Civil War hospital, where you can see, smell, touch, hear, and taste history. Then see the restored slave quarter, smokehouse and dairy and enjoy the fragrant Rose Garden. The site is open for tours May-October. Grounds are open year round from dawn-dusk. Tours November-April are available with advanced notice.

Visit one of the oldest homes in Prince William County. Built circa 1747 by Richard Blackburn, the historic house is situated between Neabsco Creek, the Potomac River, and the historic King's Highway (present day Route 1). The original owners, Richard and his son Thomas, had extensive land holdings in the county where they grew tobacco, wheat, and other commodities. By 1842, the Atkinson Family called Rippon Lodge home for about 90 years before the property was sold to Wade Ellis in 1924. Mr. Ellis, and his wife Dessie, purchased 500 acres, renovated the home, turning it into a Colonial Revival residence, and are regarded as being responsible for preserving much of the history. Admiral Richard Blackburn Black, the last private owner, purchased the home in 1952, and continued to preserve the home and history as Mr. Ellis had. Admiral Black is linked to many important historical events, including exploration of Antarctica with Admiral Richard Byrd and Pearl Harbor.