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The area around Manassas, Virginia, is steeped in history and played a significant part in the Civil War. Here are some of the important historical sites in the City of Manassas and the surrounding area.
Manassas Battlefield Park
The Manassas Battlefield Park commemorates First Battle of Manassas in July 1861, which was the first major battle of the Civil War, and the Second Battle of Manassas in August 1862. These are also known as the First and Second Battles of Bull Run. At the time, the area wasn’t much more than a railroad crossing, but it was considered a strategic location.
The park covers over 5,000 acres and serves to preserve the history of the battles and offers many outdoor activities. Ranger tours are available seasonally, or you can take a self-guided 20-mile driving tour. For those interested in nature, the park features woodlands, meadows, and streams providing habitat for many animals. Over 40 miles of trails enable you to visit key areas of the battlefields.
Mayfield Fort
In 1861, Confederate soldiers began the construction of 12 fortifications to defend the strategic railroad lines at Manassas Junction. Mayfield Fort was occupied by Confederate soldiers until March 1862 when they were withdrawn to aid the defense of Richmond. Subsequently, the fort was taken over by Union troops.
At the site, you can see the remains of the earthworks and replicas of the Quaker guns the Confederates left to disguise the removal of their artillery. Eight interpretive markers provide information along the Civil War Trail. Educational and living history events are held at the fort.
Hopkins Candy Factory
Located within the Historic District is the former Hopkins Candy Factory. It was constructed in 1907 to replace the previous factory which was destroyed by a fire. You can see a free exhibit detailing the history of the building and its architect and visit the Center for the Arts there.
Liberia Plantation
The plantation house known as Liberia was referred to simply as the Brick House by the Weir family who built it. The family grew grain and vegetables for commercial sale with the labor of 90 slaves. They also raised cattle, sheep, horses, and hogs.
During the Civil War, the house was used as a Confederate headquarters and military hospital. With the advance of the Union troops, the family was forced to flee south, and the house fell into Union hands. After the conflict, the Weir family returned but couldn’t regain their previous prosperity. The house is undergoing restoration and is now open for tours and special events.
The Manassas Local Historic District
The historic district of the City of Manassas covers around 2.5 square miles of the downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods. It features more than 300 buildings which are of architectural or historic significance. Architectural styles vary from Italianate, Queen Anne, and Second Empire styles to American Foursquare and Craftsman styles.
A little exploration around the Manassas area will uncover many historic markers and provide a sense of life in the past.
Image by David is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0
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