You probably know Quantico, Virginia, because of the mighty Marine Corps that calls the base home. It’s true; the facilities and museum are certainly something to see. But did you realize that the areas surrounding MCB Quantico are filled with American history?
Even if you aren’t a history buff, these sites should be on your MCB Quantico bucket list simply for their beautiful settings and easy access. However, a little bit of American history never hurt anyone!
Early American History Near Quantico
There’s no better way to start than to explore the sites related to the father of our country, George Washington. Multiple buildings bear his family’s name.
Ferry Farm was the president’s home starting at age six. The family originally named the property Home Farm, but it's best known as Ferry Farm because of its location near a crossing on the Rappahannock River that visitors use a ferry to traverse.
George Washington's Ferry Farm aerial view - photo from Virginia.gov
Mary Washington was George’s mother. He bought her a home in 1772, where she lived for the last seventeen years of her life. Mary's lovely possessions are cared for and displayed inside, including a teapot and her “best dressing glass,” otherwise known as her personal mirror. Mary ultimately willed the mirror to George after her death from breast cancer.
The Rising Sun Tavern was not originally used as a tavern but as a home to George’s brother, Charles. It was only later, through another family, that the building became a popular tavern. The tavern no longer serves weary travelers but offers a glimpse of what tavern life would be like through docents and costumed interpreters.
If you’re a George Washington fan, don’t forget to visit his beloved home on the Potomac River. Read our Insider Tips for Your Visit to Mount Vernon.
African-American Heritage Sites Near Quantico
When learning about American history, it's essential to recognize the effects of enslaved labor introduced into Virginia. These African-American Heritage Sites give additional perspective to the location’s history.
The Historic Barnes Home photo from Prince William County, VA
The county government of Spotsylvania and the National Park Service commissioned the African-American Heritage Trail to research and document the general history of the enslaved African-Americans who lived and worked in the region. The work culminated in 2010 with a seventy-five mile driving tour through the countryside. Visitors can expect to visit eleven sites that detail twenty-three historic African-American events, people, and places.
The Historic Barnes House was the property of freed slave Eppa Barnes and his family. Initially built in 1797, officials had to move the Historic Barnes House in 2004 and again in 2014 when they restored the structure. From a historic preservation context, the white, beaded clapboard siding on the front of the home is iconic of the time frame of the post-Civil War area.
Learn more about Civil War history and Take a Tour of 6 Civil War Sites in Virginia.
Ruins and Historical Buildings near Quantico
It's nearly impossible to explore Quantico without coming across ruins from the Civil War or colonial era to explore.
Rippon Lodge photo from Prince William County, VA
The Stafford Civil War Park offers a depiction of what life and battle were like during the winter of 1863, when Generals Burnside and Hooker encountered over 135,000 Union Army troops. The encampment shows well-preserved artillery forts, living areas, and much more.
Government Island is a Colonial Era quarry that workers later mined to furnish Aquia sandstone for some of the country’s well-known monuments and buildings, such as the White House and the U.S. Capitol Building. The site is recorded on the National Register of Historic Sites for its contributions to Washington, DC, and because the island’s original inhabitants date back to the Paleo-Indian period. Hiking through the island is a popular activity.
Virginia’s contribution to the country’s history is often in the form of historic buildings left behind by wealthy landowners.
Rippon Lodge is one of those examples. It’s one of the oldest homes in Prince William County, dating back to around 1747. Richard Blackburn was the original builder and owner. The Blackburn family grew tobacco and wheat to amass their fortune. The families Atkinson, Ellis, and Black were the follow-on owners of the restored Colonial Revival residence, which you can visit today.
Feed your sense of adventure with these 5 Easy Day Trips Near Quantico, Virginia.
Stafford County, Spotsylvania County, Prince William County, and Fredericksburg have more historical sites to discover. There's enough to keep any family occupied for a fraction of the price and minimal tourist aggravation compared to our capital city to the north, Washington, DC.
Plus, the quick commute from MCB Quantico can’t be beat! It's possible to explore multiple historical sites in just one day.
Is the military taking you to an assignment at MCB Quantico? Our free guide below fills you in on everything you need to know!
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