Area History, Austin Ridge


*The historic 18th century Barlow-Tolson House is located in the heart of the Austin Ridge Community.*

Stafford County, Virginia was established in 1664 by the Brent family as the first Catholic settlement and first church in Virginia. Native Americans lived here as early as 1000 B.C.. George Washington spent much of his youth growing up in Stafford, and the area was active during the Civil War.
	Barlow-Tolson House: This 18th century historic house is reminiscent of homes of its era. The house is being partially restored, and will be a park and picnic area for residents of Austin Ridge and the public.
	Ferry Farm: George Washington grew up at Ferry Farm, and it is here that the legend of the cherry tree is believed to have begun. Archaeological digs continue to research the original buildings and to search for Native American artifacts. Open daily to the public.
	Civil War: follow the Civil War Trails throughout the area and state, or visit the Fredericksburg/ Spotsylvania National Military Park where four major Civil War battles, the Battle of Fredericksburg, Wilderness, Spotsylvania Courthouse and Chancellorsville took place.
	Historic Buildings & Landmarks: Stafford's rich heritage has left a number of historic treasures to be discovered including: Aquia Crucifix and Brent Cemetery--tombstones in the family cemetery date back to the late 1600's, and the Crucifix was erected in 1930 to commemorate the first English settlement in Stafford County. Chatham Plantation was built in the 18th century and was occupied by Union troops during the Civil War. Clara Barton and Walt Whitman treated wounded soldiers here. Aquia Church was built in the 1750s, one of the most significant Colonial Churches in America. It was occupied by Union Troops during the Civil War, and its original 3 tiered pulpit still stands. Stafford County Courthouse--several courthouses existed between 1665 to the present location and structure built in 1922, including one occupied by Union troops during the Civil War. The Magistrate's Office, built in the early 1800's is Stafford County's oldest standing municipal building. Aquia Landing was a major transportation hub in the 1800's. Union ships and Confederate shore batteries engaged in battle here in one of the first Naval engagements of the Civil War. White Oak Primitive Baptist Church--built in 1789, the church served as a hospital during the Civil War. Many of its early members had been slaves at Chatham Plantation. Hartwood Presbyterian Church was built in 1858. Both Union and Confederate armies occupied the church and destroyed the beautiful wooden interior during the Civil War. The interior was rebuilt after the war.
Austin Ridge has its very own piece of history on site and is central to many other historic sites and landmarks throughout Stafford, Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas. History buffs will not be disappointed!