Coming Soon

Centuries of American Significance

In the mid-1700s, the James River intersection of the Great Western Road and the Great Wagon Road embodied the crossroads of America. Abolitionist and Quaker John Lynch began a ferry service, and in 1754, the area became Bedford County. The county seat in New London welcomed Patrick Henry for his famous “Beef! Beef!” speech. Thomas Jefferson built a home nearby in 1808 and enrolled his grandson in New London Academy, chartered in 1795 and still in operation. The county has since seen tales of farm life, American music, industry, and heroism. The National D-Day Memorial, dedicated in 2001 by George W. Bush, was placed in the town of Bedford to honor the unequaled sacrifice made on June 6, 1944. Author James Siddons chronicles notable moments and lesser-known sagas in the annals of Bedford County.

Capturing its founding as a welcoming area of Virginia where people of all backgrounds could plant roots, Reston demonstrates the definition of community, from its beautifully constructed buildings to its array of people.

Reston, Virginia, was named utilizing the initials of its founder, Robert E. Simon Jr. In 1961, Simon purchased over 6,000 acres of wooded farmland between Washington, DC, and the soon-to-be opened Dulles International Airport to build a planned community where all could live, work, and play. Since its founding, Reston challenged the norms of the day by establishing an open community, fighting for affordable housing, and building a sense of belonging through its Restonian-led community organizations like Reston Black Focus, Common Ground Foundation, and more. This collection of vintage images portrays the people, places, and events that have built Reston into the thriving community it is today. Its unique architecture and design both inspire and evoke nostalgia. 

Alexandra Campbell and Ava Smigliani are George Mason University history graduates, museum professionals, and historians of American history. Both have also presented and contributed to publications on various topics of American history. Founded in 1997, the Reston Museum is a community 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that preserves the past, informs the present, and influences the future of Reston through its exhibits, educational public programs, and events. Most images are provided by the Reston Museum, and photographs are overwhelmingly captured by Restonians. 

From farmers to pastors, teachers to sailors, and everything in between, the Black history of Hanover County reflects the dedication and values of the community.

Freedwoman Betsy Hogg Tinsley, in time, became one of the largest landowners in Ashland. Founded in 1870, Brown Grove Baptist Church has been the center of its neighborhood for more than 150 years.

During the time of segregation, Lucian Hunter of Mechanicsville worked to make sure that Black students could get to school. The Barksdale Theatre in the Hanover Tavern produced Virginia’s first professional play based on the African American experience. Tracing their history back to 1796, the Brooks family boasts military service across five generations.

Author and local social studies teacher Joe Gorman celebrates the rich history and proud heritage of Hanover County African Americans.

History You Didn’t Learn in School

Discover powerful stories left out of most history books. Author Jeffrey Bennett reveals the hidden legacy of Black Virginians. From 1865 to 1877, over 80 Black politicians served across the state. Learn about a brave Black woman who spied on Confederate President Jefferson Davis while disguised as an enslaved worker.

See the history of more than seventy Black communities lost in Virginia. Read the story of a 135-year-old church and the meaning behind land passed down through generations. These stories show the strength and impact of Black families before and after slavery. Perfect for history lovers and older readers, this collection brings forgotten voices back to life.