Historical Marker

Thoroughfare Gap

Historical marker location:
17504 Beverly Mill Dr, Broad Run, Virginia
( Marker is on John Marshall Highway (Virginia Route 55) 0.1 miles Beverleys Mill Road (County Road 600), on the right when traveling west.)

A "Dark, Gloomy Cleft". Mosby's Confederacy and Second Manassas Campaign

In 1619, the Virginia House of Burgesses became the first representative assembly in the Americas. It was the beginning of a tradition of representative government that would later influence the creation of the United States government.
Virginia random facts
Fauquier County, located in the Piedmont region of Virginia, has a rich and diverse history that spans over three centuries. Named after Francis Fauquier, the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 1758 to 1768, the county was officially established in 1759. However, it was inhabited long before by Native American tribes such as the Manahoac and Iroquois.

During the American Revolutionary War, Fauquier County played a significant role as a transportation hub and supply center for the Continental Army. The Battle of Thoroughfare Gap in 1862, which occurred during the American Civil War, took place within the county's borders. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Fauquier County's economy shifted from agriculture to commercial activities as the arrival of the railroad allowed the area to connect to wider markets.

Today, Fauquier County boasts a thriving rural community and a vibrant historic district. The county's agricultural heritage is still visible, with numerous farms and vineyards dotting the landscape. Fauquier County is also home to several significant historic sites, including the Old Jail Museum and the Sky Meadows State Park, which offer visitors a glimpse into the county's past.

Overall, Fauquier County's history is characterized by its agricultural roots, its involvement in pivotal events during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and its subsequent transition into a modern and diverse community. Through the years, the county has maintained a strong sense of heritage, attracting both residents and visitors alike to explore its fascinating past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Fauquier County, Virginia.

  • 1759: Fauquier County is established, named after Francis Fauquier, Lieutenant Governor of Virginia.
  • 1775: Fauquier County residents participate in the American Revolutionary War.
  • 1791: The Town of Warrenton is established as the county seat.
  • 1812: Fauquier County residents serve in the War of 1812.
  • 1861-1865: Fauquier County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War, with both Union and Confederate forces occupying the area at different times.
  • 1870s: Railroads reach Fauquier County, boosting economic growth.
  • 1898: Fauquier County experiences a small gold rush.
  • 20th century: Fauquier County becomes increasingly suburbanized, with significant population growth and development.
  • 2007: The National Sporting Library and Museum opens in Middleburg, highlighting the region's equestrian heritage.