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FIRST TO FIGHT
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PRINCE WILLIAM ON PARADE
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KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE
prince william living July 2011
The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William 4and Greater Manassas
PATRIOTISM IN PRINCE WILLIAM
PAGE 4
A Salute to Our Veterans PAGE 7
Manassas National Battlefield Park: Journey Through History www.princewilliamliving.com
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table of contents July 2011 Vol. 1 No. 7
FEATURES A Salute to Our Veterans ....................................2..4 Manassas National Battlefield Park: Journey rough History ....................................2..7
4
DEPARTMENTS from the publisher....................................2..............3 postcards from prince william ..............................3 destinations First to Fight—National Museum of the Marine Corps Tells History of U.S. Marines ....................12 family fun Prince William on Parade ....................................14 local flavor Philadelphia Tavern—Serving Up a Heaping Helping of Philly in Manassas ..............................16
7
giving back Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation— Preserving History in the County ........................18 going places Nokesville Singer Making a Difference ................20 on a high note Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps— Keeping History Alive ..........................................22 tambourines and elephaents :-) ........................................................................25 advertiser index ....................................2..............26
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calendar ....................................2..........................27 Photo courtesy Lori Gomez
distribution sites ....................................2............29 prince william livieng July 2011 | 1
The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William 4and Greater Manassas
Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher Elizabeth Kirkland ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com Contributing Writers Rebecca Barnes, Maria Bosack, Carla Christiano, Olivia Overman, Linda Ross Pugel, Jennifer Rader, Casey Rives and DeeDee Corbitt Sauter Copy Assistant Marya Wright Unrath Photography Lori Gomez, Jeff Owen, Jennifer Rader, Ken Sapp Graphic Design and Production Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio Senior Advertising Account Executive Eileen Classick-Terry Advertising Account Executives Yahaira M. Stewart Patty Tracy Prince William Living, the premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. e opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. © Copyright 2011 by Prince William Living, Inc. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced or translated without written permission. Visit the Prince William Living website at www.princewilliamliving.com for reprint permission. Subscription rate is $12 (U.S.), one year. International subscribers add $12 each year. Change of address notices should be sent to Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes. Reprints and Back Issues: To order article reprints or request reprint permission, please visit the Prince William Living website: www.princewilliamliving.com. Order back issues by calling Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1. For further information about Prince William Living, visit2011 www.princewilliamliving.com, or contact 2 | July prince william livieng Prince William Living at (703) 232-1758.
Prince William Living 4491 Cheshire Station Plaza, PMB 55 Dale City, VA 22193 Phone: (703) 232-1758 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Editorial offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 2 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Advertising offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 1 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Editorial Have a story you’d like our staff to cover? Contact Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher Elizabeth Kirkland, either by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 2, or by email at ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com. Advertising Prince William Living accepts display advertising. For complete advertising information, please contact Rebecca Barnes, Prince William Living president, either by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1, or by email at rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com. Distribution If you are your business’ decision maker and you have a waiting room or other place your customers and employees would appreciate finding a copy of Prince William Living, please call Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes and ask about how your business can become a free distribution site for Prince William Living. Rebecca can be reached by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1, or by email at rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com. By becoming a distributor of Prince William Living, your business will be mentioned on the Prince William Living website and in future issues of Prince William Living. Social Media
Prince William Living can be found on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
from the publisher
ank you!
i
t’s great being the editor in chief and publisher of Prince William Living magazine. People come up to me frequently when they hear what I do, just to say thanks for providing them with the only lifestyle magazine in the county. But providing such a great magazine to the people of Prince William and Greater Manassas wouldn’t be possible without the help of so many people behind the scenes. I’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you to my business partner, Rebecca Barnes, who serves as the president of Prince William Living, to our writers, to our photographers, to2 our designer, and to everyone who’s helped us along the way. It’s not easy doing what we do, but you make it so worthwhile. ank you so much for your hard work and for your support.
And thank you, readers and advertisers. Without you, we wouldn’t be here. We appreciate all of you so, so much. Sincerely,
Elizabeth Kirkland Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher
postcards from prince william Events Commemorating the 150th Anniversary of Civil War will be Held throughout the Prince William County This month, Prince William Living brings you even more information about the events that will be held throughout the area to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Corey A. Stewart, chairman atlarge of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors, wrote to Prince William Living to remind us that a number of Civil War battles took place not just in Manassas but all over Prince William County. Tours of several historic sites in Prince William County are available for the general public. The Historic Preservation Division will interpret Civil War history at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Site and at Bristoe Station Battlefield, and a new Civil War medicine exhibit is now being shown at Pringle House/Ben Lomond Manor House. Admission is $5 per site or less in a package price. “In 1861, Prince William County was the site of the first major land battle of the American Civil War—the Battle of First Manassas/Bull Run,” wrote Stewart, in an email to Prince William Living dated June 13. “Both the Union and the Confederacy realized that the balance of power shifted with the control of Prince William County, and throughout the war, efforts were undertaken to secure position within Prince William. Because of Prince William County’s strategic location, a number of battles took place on our soil, and it is incumbent upon us to allow others to experience that history firsthand.”
Remembering Manassas City Police Sgt. John D. Conner, III Thank you for the 1 By Youth article in your April 2011 issue by Casey Rives. This year’s event was dedicated to Sgt. John D. Conner, III, a Manassas City policeman who was killed in the line of duty July 24, 1988. I was able to attend the project and was amazed; what a wonderful community concept. Also thanks for the event listing for the Manassas City Police Association 5K Run held May 7. This is also dedicated to Sgt. Conner and I am grateful that the community continues to honor his memory. — Det. Cindy van Noppen, Manassas City Police Editor’s note: City of Manassas Police Chief Douglas Keen, along with the Manassas City Police Honor Guard, will, at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 18 at Quantico National Cemetery, place a wreath at Sgt. Conner’s gravesite to commemorate life, career and ultimate sacrifice.
Submissions to Postcards from Prince William may be emailed to ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com; mailed to Prince William Living, ATTN: Postcards, 4491 Cheshire Station Plaza, PMB 55, Dale City, VA 22193. Questions? Call (703) 232-1758.
prince william livieng July 2011 | 3
A Salute to Our Veterans By Olivia Overman, Contributing Writer
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He was also hit in the shoulder while in combat in Saipan, and after being released from the hospital was transferred to the 1st Marine Division (C/1/5) in Tangu, China.
ith more than 25 million veterans living in our nation today, America’s heroes can be found in virtually every town throughout the country. Some may wonder why it is that veterans, having dedicated their lives to serving their country, would not want to shout from the rooftops about the sacrifices they’ve made. But this is not the case for many veterans, some of whom even play down their heroism.
While defending the division’s ammunition supply point in Hsin Ho, China, on April 5, 1947, the company was ambushed by the Communist Chinese 8th Route Army. Herb lost five of his comrades that day and 19 others were wounded. After this, Herb was spot promoted to staff sergeant.
In fact, right here in Prince William County, there are thousands of veterans, active and retired, from every branch of the service. Here are some of their stories.
Herb was awarded the Purple Heart with two gold stars for his service in Saipan and Iowa Jima, and a third Purple Heart for wounds he received in Hsin Ho, China, on that day.
Herbert B. “Herb” Newman
“I was 16 years old when I enlisted in 1943,” said Newman. “I had to stay home for a month and a half for boot camp until I turned 17. My mother wasn’t too happy when I enlisted but she couldn’t do anything about it. It was the thing to do in those days.” Newman, who was born on January 15, 1926, in McKees Rocks, Pa., to Marion and Ruth Newman, wasn’t the first in his family to go to war; his father served in the Marine Corps during World War I. When asked what it was like to enter combat as a young man, Herb only hesitated for a moment, then said simply, “I was pretty gung-ho. e first time (going into combat), I was 17, so I had no fear.” Herb was involved in the invasions of Roi-Namur, the Marshall Islands, Saipan, Tinian Island, the Marianas and Iwo Jima. “I was hit pretty bad in Iwo Jima on the third day,” Herb said. “I was evacuated and was in the hospital for a year on a ship, then in Pearl Harbor. I ended up in Bethesda.” 4 | July 2011 prince william livieng
Photo courtesy Olivia Overman
After serving 21 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, Herbert B. “Herb” Newman retired as a 1st Sgt. of the 4th Marine division (B/1/24).
Herb held numerous ranks and positions in the Marine Corps until his retirement from active duty on July 30, 1963. Since then he has played a significant role in supporting and promoting veterans’ affairs. He was one of the original founders and organizers of the Potomac Region Veterans Council (PRVC) in 1972 and the National Marine Corps Council (NMCC) in 1974. He served as commander, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1496 in 1973, and of the American Legion Post 28 in 1978. After 20 years of service, Herb has received medals and ribbons too numerous to mention.
Hazel S. Jackson ere are also many women who were and continue to play an active role in the armed forces. Hazel S. Jackson’s story is one of thousands. Jackson joined the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC), an organization that eventually became the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War II, in the 1940s. “I wanted to go to Europe—to France,” said Jackson. “I had French in high school and I wanted to see Paris and I wanted to speak French. “In the U.S., I worked for a medical group ‘cause I could sew. I didn’t go to the hospitals; I went to work as a seamstress to take care of the uniforms in that battalion.” at was in Fort Riley, Kan., said Jackson, and it was there that Jackson completed her
While in Europe, Jackson was part of the postal battalion, taking care of the mail for the American soldiers. “In Europe there were 366 in the postal battalion,” she said. e Women’s Army Corps (WAC) Mothers Association was founded during World War II by mothers of women in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC). e WAC Mothers’ purpose was to help both men and women by serving in hospitals and USOs, selling bonds, mending clothes, sending comfort packages to the WACs and doing anything they could to make life more comfortable for the men and women serving their country. “I enjoyed all of it,” said Jackson, when asked about her two years of service in the WAC. Jackson was in France when World War II ended, and she admits she may have stayed there, too, had it not been for a letter from her brother, which said, in part, “you come home—the world is not your playground.” It was that letter which led Jackson to change her mind and go back to the U.S. After her time with the WAC, Jackson began a long career working for the IRS in New York, from which she has now retired. Jackson still keeps in touch with some of her comrades from the WAC. “One called me recently because she couldn’t find me since I had moved,” she said. “She was saying ‘where is she?’ She found me through a friend of mine. She called him and got my information.” Jackson now resides in Potomac Place, an assisted living facility in Woodbridge, Va., close to family members.
John Logue John Logue began his story saying, “It’s a rather strange story. Not spectacular at all.” As a U.S. Air Force reservist, Logue’s career spans both the civilian and military legal worlds. His full-time career was in general practice law and he was, at one time, an assistant U.S. attorney. He was also “a partner in a prestigious law firm,” Logue said. As a U.S. Air Force reservist, he traveled to France and Russia with his battalion and retired a lieutenant colonel. “In 1943, I had just graduated from high school and I volunteered and tried to get in the Air and Navy Forces,” Logue said. “But I had an overbite and a couple of other things, and when I went up for my physical they said I was not cleared for duty.” It was then that Logue was classified 4-F and subsequently left for college. He graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1950. After his graduation from college just after the Korean War had begun, Logue went to visit his brother in California. It was then that he decided to apply for the position of intelligence officer with
the Air Force Reserves. He passed the physical for this position at Moffett Federal Air Field in San Francisco. Photo courtesy Olivia Overman
basic training before being sent overseas. Her dream of going to France was realized when she was sent to work in both England and France.
But when Logue returned to his then home in Indiana, there was a draft notice waiting for him. Once again, he took another physical, which he passed, and because, as he put it, he was “the oldest fella who went out to take the physical,” he was made corporal. He was never officially drafted after his marriage on August 17, 1950. On November 1, 1950, however, Logue received notice that he had gotten the intelligence officer position and was assigned to Fort Wayne, Ind. So while Logue was practicing law as a civilian, as a reservist he was also anxiously awaiting a call to active duty. As the months went by, nothing transpired with the U.S. Air Force Reserves, so Logue eventually transferred to the Air National Guard. With them, he spent two weeks on active duty and served one weekend a month. “ey changed my work from intelligence officer to legal officer in the Guard. I never did serve as an intelligence officer but became a legal officer instead,” Logue said. “In 1961, the Russians started building the wall in Berlin and our Guard unit was called to active duty, and I went with them to France and served as staff judge advocate in the unit.” His work, while on active duty, included working with the local French authorities, monitoring criminal trials, and convincing the local authorities they could handle the work there. His position also entailed being chief legal advisor to the commander who was in charge of American troops. “I served as investigating officer, defense counsel, trial counsel (prosecutor) and we took our troops periodically into Berlin just to show we could do it,” said Logue. “We went through Checkpoint Charlie and to East Berlin and I even had my picture taken by the wall. “at was the extent of my service. I went back to the (U.S. Air Force) Reserves and served two weeks at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Ind., on active duty.” Logue was eventually transferred, in 1976, to the Pentagon to be first attorney in charge of a unit. It was at that time that Logue and his family made their home in Prince William County. “I retired after 28 years, but it was nothing spectacular, really,” said a modest Logue. When asked why he enlisted in the Reserves, Logue said, “I felt obligated to serve. I wanted to because I missed WWII; because they said I had a back problem. I was glad to serve and I retired as a lieutenant colonel. ere was nothing significant.” ese are just a few of the amazing stories from the veterans living in our community. ey all have different stories to tell, but their mission was the same: to serve and protect our United States of America. A graduate of American University’s School of Communication, Olivia Overman has written articles for a number of online and print publications. She lives with her husband and son in Woodbridge. prince william livieng July 2011 | 5
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Manassas National Battlefield Park:
Journey rough History
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By Carla Christiano, Contributing Writer
t’s easy to forget while driving the rolling green hills of Route 29 through Manassas National Battlefield Park in northeast Prince William County that it was the scene of horrific fighting not once but twice in less than 2two Photo courtesy Jeff Owen
years.
On July 21, 1861, thousands of Union and Confederates soldiers clashed in the fields and woods during what became known as the First Battle of Manassas (or Bull Run), in the first major engagement of the Civil War. During that battle, more than 900 were killed and 2,600 were wounded. Such carnage had not been seen before and it shocked a divided nation. irteen months later, on the days of August 28, 29 and 30, 1862, the soldiers met there again in the Second Battle of Manassas—a battle even more brutal than the first. More than 3,000 men would die and 15,000 would be wounded during that battle. Created as a national park in 1940, Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the historic landscape of the two battles. And though the area around the park has boomed with tract housing and suburban shopping centers, the park remains a 5,000-acre oasis
filled with the past. Hills that were once crawling with soldiers and booming with musket and artillery fire are now largely quiet. “It’s so similar to what it was like during the battles,” said the Young family, visiting the park from Cumberland Plateau, Tenn. “We’re feeling the quiet and trying to imagine it.” Although they did not have ancestors who fought in either battle, they were excited about visiting the battlefield and learning its history. (continues on page 8) prince william livieng July 2011 | 7
(continued from page 7) With this year marking the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, it is the perfect time to take your own journey to the past and visit Manassas Battlefield.
Henry Hill Visitor Center: Begin Your Journey Your first stop at the park should be the Henry Hill Visitor Center on Route 234. An entrance fee of $3 per adult gives you access to the center and the park for three days. While there, grab a park brochure and map, and take in the 45-minute film, narrated by Richard Dreyfuss and included in the admission fee, to get an overview of both battles.
In preparation for the 150th anniversary of the First Battle, the park will be expanding the center’s exhibits. According to Ray Brown, chief of cultural resources and interpretation at the park, “We are working on a number of exhibit projects this year, to coincide with the Sesquicentennial of First Manassas. One exhibit that will be in place this summer will be a video presentation of three-dimensional historic photographs of the battlefield, taken in 1862 and showing the aftermath of the battle.” e park has also partnered with Prince William County Schools and the Journey rough the Hallowed Ground Partnership in an educational project involving sixth grade students from Manassas’ Stonewall Jackson Middle School. e students developed short videos interpreting First Manassas, and these will be available online on both the park’s and the Journey’s websites, he said. You can also use the center to help you in your genealogy quests. For a fee that ranges from about $30 to $115, you can request your ancestors’ records from a service offered through the bookstore. (Fees depend on the records you request and whether your ancestors were Union or Confederate soldiers.) And if your ancestors fought in either First or Second Manassas and you know their regiments, park staff can show you, on a battlefield map, where they fought, and you can follow in their footsteps.
Brawner Farm Interpretive Center If the Second Battle of Manassas is more your interest, you should drive to the Brawner Farm Interpretive Center, located just a few miles from the Visitor Center. Housed in a restored farmhouse (part of which was built around 1868), the center has a battle map that shows the troop movements during the second battle and gives you a sense of how much bigger it was than the first. A mannequin clad in the bright red trousers and cap of a 5th New York uniform stands at the ready nearby. ree-hundred and 8 | July 2011 prince william livieng
To truly gain an understanding of the battle, though, you should head outside with park staff for a tour. It was here on Brawner Farm that men from Stonewall Jackson’s army and what would become the Union’s Iron Brigade faced off 70 yards apart and fired volley after volley at each other. When you pace off the distance, you realize just how close that is.
Photo courtesy Jeff Owen
e Henry Hill Visitor Center, which was built in 1942 and expanded in 1999, also houses the bookstore, where you can buy souvenir T-shirts and caps as well as books on the battles and the Civil War, and the museum, which focuses mainly on the First Battle. One of the most poignant exhibits in the museum is the uniform of a 17-year-old VMI cadet who was shot and killed leading his company into battle. e uniform still has a hole in the shoulder from the bullet that felled the young cadet.
thirty-seven men of the 5th New York were killed or wounded in 15 minutes on the last day of the Second Battle.
Living History Programs On many weekends in the park, you may see a Civil War re-enactor dressed in a soldier’s uniform walking through the grass over by the Henry House or by Brawner Farm. No, you are not seeing ghosts. ese folks dressed in period garb are part of the living history program at the park. According to ranger John Reid, who coordinates the program, the living history program gives visitors a glimpse of Civil War life through “soldier and civilian life demonstrations, historic weapons demonstrations of musketry and artillery firing, and encampments with demonstrations of military music, medicine, maneuvers.” He said, “Such demonstrations are popular with those who perform them for the sense of the past they convey, and to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers; and for the audience, the demonstrations offer a precious and rare glimpse into the past. Living history reveals an impression of the past to modern eyes, and echo of the rattle of musket and cannon fire to modern ears.”
Equestrian Trails “People think of it as an ideal destination,” said Joan Ferguson, of Vienna, who is a member of the Battlefield Equestrian Society (BES), which helps maintain the more than 18 miles of equestrian trails in the park. Ferguson feels that the battlefield and the horse are closely linked. “We do feel that horses were key during the Civil War,” she said. By riding horses, Ferguson said, people can get a good idea of what soldiers and civilians experienced during that time period because just about everything moved by horse. “It was the way transportation moved,” she said. When people ride the trails, they get a sense of those who came before them. “When we are riding around the park, we are riding with ghosts,” she said. e trail with the best view, said Ferguson, is the Main Loop, which winds past the New York monuments (one of which is for (continues on page 10
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(continued from page 8) the fated 5th New York), parallels Route 66 at the southern end of the park, heads north and east of Henry Hill, across Route 29 and Youngs Branch, and across Route 234. Even though there are crossings over two busy roads at Route 29 and Route 234, she noted that there have not been any problems with horses and the crossings. (e park does not rent horses for horseback riding. If you want to ride the trails, you must bring your own horse and park your trailer at the designated areas at Groveton or Portici.) Photo courtesy Jeff Owen
Hiking Trails One of the best and easiest ways to see the park is on foot. e park has approximately 20 miles of hiking trails that take you through fields, forests, creeks and historical sites. If you do not want to hike the trails alone, park staff lead walking tours around Henry Hill and Brawner Farm as well as other historic areas such as the Stone Bridge and the Unfinished Railroad. Each Saturday in April and October, park staff lead five- to six-mile hikes alternating between the First and Second Battle. Starting this summer, the park will also offer History at Sunset tours to highlight different areas of the park. For Beverlyn and Justin Silberbauer, of Gainesville, who were visiting the park with their family and English bulldog Gemma one Saturday, the biggest attraction in the park was the trails. ey noted that the Stone Bridge area was their favorite place to walk because of its peacefulness. “It’s a place to enjoy nature, serenity, to get away from the hecticness of day-to-day life,” Beverlyn said. Justin said that when they hike through the park, “we’re walking through history.” For six-year-old Kevin Zhang and his mom, Emily Zhang, of Centreville, the park is a frequent stop. One of their favorite places in the park was also the Stone Bridge trail. “For me, it is so beautiful here and so quiet,” Emily said. “I want (Kevin) to know the history.”
What You Should Know Park Hours
Park is open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk
Henry Hill Visitor Center Hours
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 da4ys a week from dawn to dusk except for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Brawner Farm Interpretative Center Hours
Memorial Day to Labor Day: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. November through February: closed Rest of the year: 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Weekends only, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., April through Memorial Day weekend, and Labor Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Memorial Day through Labor Day: daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Stone House Hours
Park Fees
$3.00 per person (16 years or older) - good for 3 Days Children under 16 - FREE $20.00 - Manassas Annual Pass $80.00 - Interagency Annual Pass
Park Web site
www.nps.gov/mana/index.htm
Connecting to the Past No matter whether you visit the museum at the Henry Hill Visitor Center or are just walking through the park, Manassas National Battlefield Park connects you to the past. “To stand on Henry Hill at the heart of the battlefield of First Manassas and gaze on the same setting where a generation of Americans went to war with itself, over fundamental issues concerning the nature of our government, our rights, our freedom, is a potentially powerful experience for any visitor wishing to connect with the past,” Brown said. “Visitors to the battlefield can gain a sense of how the events of the battle unfolded and what its participants experienced far more readily by walking the very ground where the fighting occurred than through reading a book or article alone.” Carla Christiano, a native of Prince William County, works as a technical writer and editor for Unisys. She holds an M.A. degree in English from George Mason University. 10 | July 2011 prince william livieng
Something You May Not Know Manassas National Battlefield Park allows fishing. 4Of course, you must have a valid Virginia fishing license and ha4ve paid your entrance fee first before you can tackle any fishi4ng spots in the park. According to Ranger John Reid, ponds are t4he favored fishing locations, as well as from the bank of Bul4l Run. He noted that small ponds are located near Stuart’s Hill, Portici, and on the ridge of the historic Dogan Farm.
Other Places to Visit in the Park Henry House Rebuilt in the 1870’s by the family of Mrs. Judith Henry, who was the only civilian killed in either battle, the curre4nt house served as a stop for Civil War veterans visiting the battlefield.
Photo courtesy Jeff Owen
Portici Site Portici was the headquarters for Confederate Gen4eral Joseph E. Johnston during First Manassas and used by th4e Confederates as a field hospital after the battle. Fire destroyed 4the house after Second Manassas. Robinson Family Home Site The home of James Robinson, a free Africa4n-American, and his family was taken over by Union troops during Se4cond Manassas for a field hospital. Stone Bridge The Stone Bridge was the scene of a diversio4nary attack by Union troops during First Manassas. The original brid4ge was burned by Confederates in 1862. The current bridge4 was rebuilt in 1884. Stone House Built before 1848, the Stone House se4rved as a temporary aid station for Union troops during both First and 4Second Manassas.
Stuart’s Hill This hill overlooking the Warrenton Turnpike (now Route 29) was Robert E. Lee’s headquarters during the Second Manassas. Unfinished Railroad The cuts and fills of the unfinished railroad lin4e of the Manassas Gap Railroad were used by Confederate General4 Stonewall Jackson during Second Manassas.
! DAY O T ETS K C I T ASE H C PUR
Be a part
of History
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the action during the commemorative events & reenactment for the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of First Manassas/Bull Run – July 21 - 24, 2011.
Discover Prince William & Manassas – Where America’s Story Becomes Yours.
For tickets & scheduling, visit ManassasBullRun.com/pwl prince william livieng July 2011 |11
destinations
FirSt tO Fight
National Museum of the Marine Corps Tells History of U.S. Marines By Maria Bosack, Contributing Writer
P
Photos courtesy National Museum of the Marine Co4rps
assing the Quantico exit on Interstate 95, it’s hard not to notice the impressive and unique structure that towers over the trees. at structure is the National Museum of the Marine Corps, which is located on a 135-acre site adjacent to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico. “It’s more than just another museum; more than just a place to get out of the heat. It’s a tribute to our Marines, and it really is the perfect place for families to learn about patriotism and our history,” said Gwenn Adams, public affairs chief of the National Museum of the Marine Corps. “e National Museum of the Marine Corps is American history as told through the eyes of the Marines.”
e phrase “Semper Fidelis” means always faithful, and is a phrase directly associated with the Marine Corps. Visitors to the National Museum of the Marine Corps see how that phrase as well as the Marines’ core values—honor, courage, and commitment—have been a valuable and integral part of our nation’s history, as the Marine Corps has evolved over the past 200 years. ere are three things that make the Marine Corps different from the other branches of the military. First is their mission: “First to fight.” e second thing that makes the Marine Corps different from other U.S. military branches is the training, and the third is the history of the Marine Corps. After a day at the Museum of the Marine Corps—after seeing first-hand the lives and history of the Marines—you will realize how truly lucky we, the public, are to have these brave men and women defending our way of life. From the parking lot of the National Museum of the Marine Corps, one’s eyes are drawn upward toward the magnificent architecture, visible from the highway. e museum’s focal point—the tilted mast, sitting atop the 160-foot glass atrium, which soars 12 | July 2011 prince william livieng
over the trees—was designed by architect Curtis Worth Fentress, whose inspiration for the museum’s design came from the famous image of the raising of the American flag on Iwo Jima. Upon entering the museum, there are a variety of Marine-related vehicles and uniforms, and more than 1,000 artifacts on display. Each item was selected by the museum’s curatorial staff for display. And what a display it is! eir fascinating artifacts cover 118,000 square feet. Planned future phases are already in place to expand the facility to more than 200,000 square feet to include more exhibits, displays and classrooms. Volunteers and active duty Marines greet visitors upon entering the facility. Just let them know what you would like to do (for example, join a tour), and they will help you. “In addition to all the artifacts, families can participate in Family Learning Days,” said Dennis Hostetter, public affairs assistant with the National Museum of the Marine Corps. “ese are usually held on one Saturday per month, and are designed to have some interaction and hands-on activities for patrons—especially families with children—but are open for all.” ere is also an
education department whose primary focus is to implement educational programs for area schools and residents about the Marines and their history. Hostetter encourages families to check the website at www.usmcmuseum.org to see what family learning event is scheduled during the time they plan to visit. On Saturday, July 9, participants during the Family Day will learn about Civil War Marines and make candles just as they would have during that era. Another Family Day on August 6 will include colonial craft-making. In addition to the museum’s indoor activities, there are also activities that can be done outside. “ere is over a mile and a half of Americans with Disability trails, and a playground and an outdoor picnic area,” Adams said. “Families can picnic outside or have lunch in our mess hall.” Nancy Burns, a Prince William County teacher with more than 35 years of teaching experience, loves taking her middle school students to the museum for field trips. “ere is a whole lesson plan that we can use in conjunction with the Virginia Standards of Learning guidelines,” she said. “Many of our parents who volunteer to chaperone have told me how much they enjoyed the museum, and have returned with their own families to share the experience with them.” Tours are given throughout the day. “Volunteers and docents and active duty Marines provide the tours, but it doesn’t have to be arranged ahead of time,” said Hostetter. “One can call ahead of time and arrange a tour, or just join in. Basically, anyone who wants to join a tour is more than welcome.” When available, free tours are lead by docents at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. You don’t need a reservation, but you will need to check at the Visitors’
Center when you arrive to see if the tours are operating on that day. Hostetter pointed out that the volunteer docents have each completed a 10-week training program, and are there to provide as much information as possible. “You don’t have to be a former Marine to volunteer,” said Hostetter. “Upon completion of the program, you are worked into the schedule. Our volunteer docents devote at least eight hours a month to the museum.” Trained volunteers and docents are stationed throughout the museum to answer any questions you may have. ere are also educational activities and handouts available at the visitors’ information desk as you enter. “Just ask at the front desk,” said Hostettler. “ese handouts relate to the monthly theme and are free for everyone.” Sometimes, given the graphic nature of the exhibits, the questions arise: Is this museum appropriate for young children? Is it too graphic and gory, since it includes scenes of combat and war? If you have young children, check with a docent when you arrive at the Visitors’ Center. e museum uses very realistic photographs, figures and movie footage to describe and depict the lives of Marines, so young children may be frightened by these images. e National Museum of the Marine Corps is located at 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway in Triangle, Va., For more information, phone (866) 635-1775, or visit them on the Web at www.usmcmuseum.org. As a freelance writer, Maria Bosack has written for a variety of websites as well as for several newsletters. She makes her home in Manassas. prince william livieng July 2011 | 13
family fun
Prince William on
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Photo courtesy Ken Sapp
By Rebecca Barnes, Prince William Living President
s the temperature rises this summer, you may be tempted to stay inside, but one thing worth coming out for is the Dale City Independence Day Parade. For more than 40 years, this celebration has been attracting record number participants, and this year will be no different. “is year we expect to have somewhere between 150 and 200 units in the parade—one of our biggest to date.” said Dale City Independence Day Parade Chairman Ernestine Jenkins. “e theme of the parade is ‘Dale City Celebrates America’s Independence Day,’ and we draw visitors and participants from around the state.” is year’s parade, which will begin at 10 a.m. on July 4, will include participants include church and civic groups, businesses and local elected officials; past parade participants have included sitting governors and other state elected officials. e 2011 grand marshal of the Dale City Independence Day Parade is USMC Lance Corporal Josh Himan. Himan, a Dale City resident, was injured in September 2009 when his Humvee hit an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. As a result, he is paralyzed from the chest down. His sacrifice reminds us all what the Fourth of July is really about—those who sacrificed so much so that we can be free. Other participants in this year’s parade are the United States Marine Corps Marching Band and Honor Guard, the Gar-Field Senior High School Marching Band, Hylton High School Marching Band and Freedom High School Marching Band. Dale City Volunteer Fire Department will also be in the parade. e parade starting point is at Dale Boulevard and Kirkdale Road. 14 | July 2011 prince william livieng
As Virginia’s largest Fourth of July parade, residents and visitors alike bring their lawn chairs and water and line Dale Boulevard to watch the parade. Float participants throw candy and trinkets to those watching the parade while many take pictures and wave as the many floats go by. “Every year people get excited about the parade as early as May, and ask about participating as early as January,” said Jenkins. “e parade brings us together as a community of families.” e parade, which is covered by Comcast Communications, ends at the commuter parking lot at Center Plaza. ere they hold an after event, Family Fun Day, which is overseen by the president of the Dale City Civic Association (DCCA). “is is my second year as chairperson for Family Fun Day,” said current DCCA President Connie Moser. “Last year, we had 28 vendor booths with food, information and crafts, plus another 10 booths with games for all ages. We expect this year to be even bigger and better!” ose participating in this year’s Family Fun Day can set up their tents, tables and chairs on Sunday, July 3—a big improvement over trying to negotiate traffic to get set up on parade day, Moser said. Families will find games, entertainment, displays, crafts and food at Family Fun Day. Vendors include local businesses, nonprofit organizations and craft vendors. For more information about the Dale City Independence Day Parade or Family Fun Day, contact Ernestine Jenkins at (703) 670-6907.
Photos courtesy Lori Gomez
Sunday, July 3 Potomac Nationals Game Gates open at 5 p.m. Sunday, July 3, and Monday, July 4, and the games begin at 6:35 p.m. G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium | 7 County C4omplex Ct. Woodbridge Just $25 for adults, $24 for chi4ldren ages six to 12, and $10 for children five and under covers a ticket to the 4game and an all-youcan-eat picnic on Sunday or Monday. Call (703) 590-2311 for more information.
Monday, July 4 Dale City Independence Day Parade and FBamily Day 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Dale Blvd. and Kirkdale Rd. | Dale C4ity This annual parade, with more than 150 ent4ries, will start at the corner of Kirkdale Road and Dale Boulevard an4d will run along Dale Boulevard to the commuter parking lot at Cent4er Plaza. After the parade, join the president of the Dale Cit4y Civic Association, Connie Moser, and others, in the commuter parking lot for games, entertainment, displays, crafts and food at Dale City Family Fun Day. Admission is free. Call (703) 6740-6907 for more information. Celebrate America! in Manassas 4–10 p.m. 9101 Prince William St. | Manassas Come out to the Manassas Museum for a beach 4party with live music by Latitude at the Harris Pavilion on t4he Manassas Museum lawn. Boardwalk games will be set up offering4 prizes, along with rides, carnival foods, face painting and a re4d, white and blue hayride. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets 4for one of Northern Virginia’s largest fireworks displays, which will begin at 9:15 p.m. Parking is available at Baldwin Elementary Schoo4l and Metz Middle School. For more information, call (703)4 361-6599, or visit www.manassascity.org.
Fourth of July at Signal Hill Park B 5–9 p.m. Signal Hill Park 9300 Signal View Dr. | Manassas Park Signal Hill Park will be holding the City of Manassas Park’s July 4 celebration. The celebration, which will include 4kids’ games and rides, musical entertainment, food and fireworks,4 is sure to be fun for the entire family. Admission is free; parking is $5, but on-site parking is limited. Shuttles will run to the 4VRE station, City Hall and OmniLink stops along Manassas Drive. Fireworks 4will begin at dark. Call (703) 335-8872, ext.4 5962, visit www.visitpwc.comor email t.thomas@manassasparkva.gov for more information. Potomac Nationals Game Gates open at 5 p.m., and the game 4begins at 6:35 p.m. G. Richard Pfitzner Stadium | 7 County C4omplex Ct. Woodbridge Just $25 for adults, $24 for chi4ldren ages six to 12, and $10 for children five and under covers a ticket to the 4game and an all-youcan-eat picnic on Sunday or Monday. Call (703) 590-2311 for more information.
Saturday, July 9 Stars & Stripes An Old Fashioned Street Party and BBQ, Presented by the Town of Haymarket 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; evening concert from 46–9 p.m. (Rain date July 10) Washington Street Admission, free. Washington Street in Haymarket will be closed to traffic, but will have booths, a kids’ area, great music, 4delicious food and more. Then, from 6– 9 p.m., enjoy a free concert (part of Haymarket’s summer concert series) featuring Karl Stoll and 4the Danger Zone. For more information, call (703) 2014-2098.
prince william livieng July 2011 | 15
local flavor
PhilADelPhiA tAVerN Serving Up a Heaping Helping of Philly in Manassas
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By Casey Rives, Contributing Writer
any restaurants in the area offer on their menu a version of Philly cheesesteak subs. And with hoagie roll that’s been loaded up with thinly sliced meat and melted cheese, what’s not to love? “It’s easy to make a Philly cheesesteak but it’s hard to make it taste like the real thing,” said Mike Groden. Originally from Pittsburgh, Groden, who moved to Manassas Park three years ago, said he hadn’t had a cheesesteak quite like what his hometown offered until he discovered Philadelphia Tavern, located at 9413 Main Street in Manassas. Now, he said of Philadelphia Tavern’s Philly cheesesteak, “I’m addicted!” A neighborhood favorite in Manassas, Philadelphia Tavern looks a lot like Philadelphia’s own old storefront taverns, so of course their cheesesteaks have to be remarkable. One of Philadelphia Tavern’s cheesesteak ingredients that sets it and the other subs on their menu apart from others in the area is the roll. “e roll is what makes a good sandwich and our rolls are shipped in from the Amoroso Bakery in Philadelphia,” said Keri Leporatti, owner of the Philadelphia Tavern. “We also give our customers a choice of either provolone cheese or Cheez Whiz; both are classic traditions in Pennsylvania.” Leporatti and her husband Mark purchased the tavern from the original owner in March of 2009. 16 | July 2011 prince william livieng
“Mark has always been in the restaurant business,” said Keri. “He used to own a bakery and a rib place over the years. Now that our kids are older we wanted to do it again. We love it.” Many of the employees have been there longer than Mark and Keri, so the atmosphere and food remain consistent. “e original owner, Carl (Joseph), still comes in to shoot the breeze with customers and to have a bite to eat, so this truly is the original Philadelphia Tavern,” said Keri. e atmosphere of the restaurant takes patrons back to a time when worries were few and far between. Customers are encouraged to relax, enjoy a conversation and satisfy their appetites. e classic rock music that plays throughout Philadelphia Tavern complements the antique woodwork, stained glass decorations and saloon-type feel of the building. e bar, which Joseph brought back from Philadelphia, was built in 1890, and still bears the original plaque on the back. And t2he neon signs, Joseph said, are probably more than 100 years old. “Everything is original, so it feels like the corner bars we have in Philly,” Joseph said. Joseph opened the tavern in the late 1990s after he and his wife, Mary, who, sadly, in 2002, died of cancer, retired from their
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work in the field of psychiatric health. e building that now houses the tavern was originally used as a liquor store, but Carl and Mary redesigned the entire inside to match the décor of a traditional Philadelphia tavern. e seating areas, bar and decorations are all original and brought in from Philadelphia. “We wanted to open something that was family friendly and my wife always told me she wanted to have a place were a lady could come to have a drink without being harassed,” said Carl. “It’s very family friendly. Kids used to come in all the time to get a root beer float.” e tavern’s visitors sit amid a wall of FBI hats, donated by an FBI agent in Quantico, while enjoying dinner. “Our friend who taught in Quantico started having his friends send us hats because when Mary found out she had cancer she refused to wear scarves or wigs; only hats,” said Carl. Carl said the tavern has exceeded his expectations and its current status serves as a tribute for what he and his wife originally set out to do. While the tavern may be famous for its Philly cheesesteak, they also have many other delicious menu items. Buffalo wings, Yuengling-steamed shrimp and South Philly hoagies are only a few options. One entire section of the menu is dedicated to
traditional Philadelphia favorites and includes such choices as Prince Edward Island Mussels and baked brie. Brunch is also offered on Sundays, starting at 11 a.m., but even at that hour, the Philly cheesesteak is a popular menu item. For brunch, many opt to indulge in “e Big Daddy” cheesesteak— thin-sliced steak and onions, topped with two e2ggs and a choice of cheese. “We also offer a great bloody Mary drink that is made by hand and without any pre-made mixers,” said Keri. Keri and Mark try to keep the atmosphere comfortable and fun, so events are plentiful. Karaoke is offered the first and third Friday of every month and live music can be heard from local bands on most Saturdays. “It reminds me of the Cheers bar from the television show.” said Jan Heppler, a bartender at the tavern. “Everyone knows everyone, the atmosphere is great and the food is amazing.”
Writer Casey Rives, who resides in Haymarket, Va., is a graduate of George Mason University. She can be reached by email at crives@princewilliamliving.com.
prince william livieng July 2011 | 17
giving back Prince William historic Preservation Foundation
Preserving history in the County By Linda Ross Pugel, Contributing Writer
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ome of Prince William County’s historic venues may, to its residents, be the place’s best known secrets. Eight historic properties fall under the care of the Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation (PWHPF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that raises funds for the restoration, programming and promotion of historic properties owned by Prince William County. According to Brendon Hanafin, the county’s liaison to PWHPF, the foundation dates back to 2001, when it became apparent that the county should begin to restore historic properties. “When the board adopted the preservation in 2001, they felt that public input was needed; particularly fundraising,” said Hanafin. “So a group of people formed a nonprofit to raise funds specifically for projects relating to the historic sites in the county.” He explained that the foundation supports the county’s efforts to preserve its past and fund important work that restores the properties. Saturday, May 21, marked the grand reopening of one of the county’s eight historic properties: the Ben Lomond Historic House, built in 1832 by Benjamin Tasker Chinn and Edmonia (Carter) Chinn. e inside of the house, which is located on Sudley Manor Road in Manassas, has been restored to its former glory, as have several outbuildings, including the dairy, smokehouse, and the slave quarters. Bill Backus, historic interpreter at the property, explained that the slave quarters were fixed to look how they appeared in 1861. “e buildings are all 18 | July 2011 prince william livieng
being transformed as closely as they looked in 1861,” he said. “We are not just limiting our folks to the main house.” Hanafin said more than 500 people were in attendance for May 21 event, and that within a week, nearly 900 visitors from all over the country went through the house. Backus, couldn’t have been more pleased with the amount of people who came out for the event. He explained that several of the items at the house are available for visitors to touch. “ey were able to explore history with their hands,” said Backus. “People are actually touching and making a connection to history.” e slave quarters of the Ben Lomond Historic House attracted a great amount of people, and were well received at the grand reopening, according to Backus. He explained that a veteran costume interpreter from Petersburg, Va., interpreter Emmanuel Dabney, was in attendance to talk about slavery in the county and in the state of Virgina. Dabney specializes in African American history from the 19th century. “It was eye-opening for a lot of people,” said Backus regarding Dabney’s interpretations of slavery. “What he was saying was challenging people’s preconceptions about their view of slavery.” He added that it gave people a better understanding of slavery during the Civil War era. “ey had a real-world connection with slavery today in Africa and Asia. It still made it relevant, even 150 years later.”
Courthouse, and William’s Ordinary, a structure that is believed to have been built in the 1760’s which now serves as the home of PWHPF’s main office. William’s Ordinary has been used for several things over the last few centuries, including a tavern, hotel, boarding house and a private residence. e foundation offers memberships in several categories, including donors, family, individuals, students and patrons. Contributing and sustaining memberships are also available. “ere are many committed and supportive (members),” said Hanafin, but noted that the foundation is always striving for more. Photo courtesy Prince William Historic Preservation 4Foundation
Interested in becoming a member of PWHPF? Visit the foundation’s website at www.pwchf.org. ey can also be found on Facebook, which is regularly updated with various programs at the historic sites, pictures and more.
Linda Ross Pugel is a 30-year resident of Prince William County, and currently resides in the Lake Ridge area with her husband and son. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Virginia Wesleyan College.
According to Hanafin, who has been with the nonprofit since 2001, 2007 was a great year for PWHPF. He explained that the Rippon Lodge, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center, and Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park were all opened up, followed by Lucasville School, which opened in February, 2008. Hanafin noted that the Brentsville Courthouse is the most attended site as far as programs are concerned. ere are several buildings on the property to visit, including the Brentsville Union Church, built in 1874 and the two-story jail, built in 1822. e grounds and natures trails at the site are open year-round. While the Brentsville Courthouse may be the most attended site as far as programs go, though, Bristoe Station has the most visitors, said Hanafin, as it is a recreational niche. “Bristoe Station has not only the history, but it appeals to the folks who like to hike and do bird walks,” he said. “You’ll always see folks on the trails.” e largest of PWHPF’s current projects is the restoration of the Rippon Lodge, which was built in 1747. “At 45 million dollars, it’s our biggest long-term project,” said Hanafin. e venue was built by Richard Blackburn, and is one of the oldest standing houses in Prince William County. e house is located on Blackburn Road, in Woodbridge, and overlooks the Neabsco Creek and Potomac River. e county also owns two preserved sections of King’s Highway, which run adjacent to Rippon Lodge, the Old Manassas
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prince william livieng July 2011 | 19
going places
Nokesville Singer Making a Difference By Olivia Overman, Contributing Writer
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t the tender age of 10, Allison Short sang in front of her church group with her sister; now, 17 years later, you can find her album and two singles on iTunes and watch her perform at many events around the country.
A Family Affair e Christian pop singer has made grown men cry with her singing. “I’ve seen 80-year-old men weep listening to the words of Allison’s songs,” said Margaret Short, Allison’s mother and manager, or “momager,” as Allison calls her. e business of singing is a family operation in the Short household. “My dad runs my sound and my mom is my ‘momager,’ and she also runs my merchandise table,” said Allison. “She kind of takes care of everything, like if my throat is froggy she’s ready, right there with garlic vitamins, water and cough drops. It’s kind of like she has a little tool belt that has everything in it. So I don’t really have to worry about anything. I’ll just have my songs ready to sing and she takes care of everything else. “It’s a family operation,” continued Allison Margaret said, “She just has this way of connecting with people of all ages.” Allison explained, “I talk to people through the words of my songs. It’s not that I want to be famous; people in Christian music are not that famous. at’s why I’m so poor. But it’s worth it to do something that you love.” Allison receives bookings through her booking agent, Mid Atlantic Christian Artists, as well as through her mother, and has performances booked for numerous dates throughout the rest of the year. In 2010, Allison performed for the wounded warriors at Malogne House at Walter Reid. She also performed for soldiers at Fort Meade who were being deployed. Margaret said Allison’s performance at Malogne
Photo courtesy Mid Atlantic Christian Artists
“I’m really bad at promoting myself,” said Allison. “Some of my closet friends don’t even know about what I do. I don’t know how it would come up in a conversation; ‘Oh yeah, well, I sing.’” Photo courtesy Allison Short
But singing isn’t her only talent. She also co-wrote a song that is with a publishing house out of Nashville. “Nobody has recorded it yet, but it is out in the universe to be presented to artists to see if they want to record it,” she said. She has also written songs of her own but believes they are not yet ready to be debuted publicly. House was one of the most anticipated. She is booked to sing there again this August. “is will probably be the last time she will perform there since they are closing it,” said Margaret. Allison sings without backup singers. Her latest single, “Believing,” was released in July 2010. She also released an album titled Only for a Season in 2007 along with the Christmas single “Believe.” In addition to singing, Allison also plays the guitar, although she claims not to do so well. “Sometimes I do that (play guitar) to mix it up a little bit,” she said. “I can play a little bit of piano, too, but again not well. Voice is something I excel at.” Margaret said she and Allison are “in the process of working with a band.”
Allison’s dream is to influence teenage girls in a positive way, just like Christian music has done for her. “I speak at teenage girl conferences sometimes and would like to do more with that,” she said. Along with this she would really like to record and tour more and hone her songwriting skills. For more information on how Allison is succeeding in her career, fan her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. Her music can be found on iTunes.
A graduate of American University’s School of Communication, Olivia Overman has written articles for a number of online and print publications. She lives with her husband and son in Woodbridge.
“Singing with a band is always something I wanted, but I was never was able to orchestrate it,” said Allison. Allison quit her full-time job at Pottery Barn in 2007 to pursue her singing career on a full-time basis. Now her days are filled with performing, rehearsing, and writing, and, on a part-time basis, managing a hair salon in Manassas. Keeping her voice in good condition through exercising it is also very important to her.
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“It actually does make a difference if you warm up first; it saves you from damaging your voice,” said Allison. “I make lots of funny noises but I have to be by myself because you look really stupid doing it,” she said with a laugh.
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A Rising Star and Teenage Role Model Even though she just turned 27, “I still feel like I am 14 on the inside,” said Allison “My dad says he feels like a 21-year-old trapped in a 54-year-old’s body, and I’m the same.” In fact, Allison, like a lot of teenagers, loves anything Disney. “I watch all the Disney shows; I have season (TiVo) passes to all the Disney T.V. shows,” said Allison. “I’ll do a concert geared just toward teenage girls so I’ll throw in a Disney song they’ll know,” she said. Recently, while performing at a girls’ event she sang a song from the new Disney movie Lemonade Mouth—that really helped her connect with her audience. Allison has traveled all over the country singing and has had singles released in places as far away as Guam, Fiji, Europe and Asia. Even so, though, she remains extremely modest—so much so that even some of her closest friends do not know the extent of her talent.
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prince william livieng July 2011 | 21
on a high note
Keeping history Alive By Jennifer Rader, Contributing Writer
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ust as there is almost nothing more soul-stirring and heartpounding as seeing a Veteran’s Day parade, there is simply no more proud a moment than to see your child perform a musical instrument in that parade!” exclaimed Anita Dantzler, Linton Hall School Board chairperson and parent of three Linton Hall School alumni. Performances by the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps are certain to arouse feelings of patriotism and pride. e Fife and Drum Corps, or “Corps,” to which it is referred, was founded in the fall of 2000 by Georgia Graves, Linton Hall parent of then fourth grader Anneliese and drum major of the professional and world-renown, American Originals Fife and Drum Corps. e purpose of the Corps follows closely to the mission of the American Originals, with a concentration to teach the children a traditional type of music skill and pride in the heritage of the 22 | July 2011 prince william livieng
United States. “(Being involved in the Fife and Drum Corps) allows the kids to engage in something historical,” said Georgia. “It defines what it means to be an American.” e rise of the concept of the Fife and Drum Corps evolved from the 16th through the 18th century, where their role became significant through military precision exercises. Most commonly associated with the Revolutionary War, armies trained drummers and fifers to cue alerts, signals and accompany marches. Historically, there would be two fifers and two drummers assigned to 100 or more men in a company. e Benedictine Sisters of Virginia founded Linton Hall School on its current site in 1922 as a residential military boys’ school. While the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia community has been in residence in the Bristow area since the 1860’s, the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps, with its music representing that era,
Photo courtesy LHS Fife and Drum Corps
linton hall School Fife and Drum Corps
began only in the fall of 2000. e military school had a marching band, as it was more common at that time throughout the military. But, the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps almost brings the school full circle in a way. “I love how it echoes the history of the school as a military boy’s school,” states Elizabeth Poole, Linton Hall School’s Principal. Photo courtesy the Giraldo family
e Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps had 10 student participants this year. ey have had up to 25 in a year with 15 to 18 musicians being a typical number for the private school’s corps. Boys and girls from second to eighth grade can join, committing to weekly two-hour after-school rehearsals and daily home practice. e students meet throughout the summer for new students to learn the basics with returning members refreshing what they learned the previous year. e Fife and Drum Corps includes three instruments: 18th century replica fifes, snare drum and bass drum. Linton Hall currently uses plastic fifes but Georgia is looking to convert to authentic wooden fifes if funds can be raised. e drums used by the Linton Hall Corps are handmade by a Pennsylvania artisan. All children learn to play the fife and drum, understand the meaning of a color guard, march in military precision and twirl flags and replica rifles.
start on the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps has gone on to study percussion at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, Department of Music.
“Everyone involved with this unique corps is truly dedicated to inspire the students to be patriotic, contributing, actively good citizens,” says Dantzler. is can be seen through the high level of professionalism within Linton Hall’s instructor base. As previously mentioned, Georgia is a drum major and member of the American Originals Fife and Drum Corps. She has been playing patriotic music since the age of 16 and is Linton Hall’s director, choreographer, marching and color guard instructor.
When asked why they enjoyed participating in the Linton Hall Fife and Drum Corps, second grader Olivia Giraldo, a first year Corps member, exclaimed, “I like to play the drum and I like to perform. We get to learn lots of music too.” Giraldo has also walked with the color guard that proudly displays the American flag, state, county and school flags. Another member of the Linton Hall Fife and Drum Corps said, “is is one of the most important things I have ever done!”
John Marshall became the drum line instructor in 2001. Marshall studied under the master, John Bosworth. Bosworth was considered a top drummer when recruited by the Air Force in the 1950s to lead as drum sergeant for the U.S. Air Force Pipe Band. He spent 32 years as a White House drummer for ceremonial duties and is the founder of American Originals.
Perhaps best demonstrating the true meaning of a Fife and Drum Corps is the students’ interest to be the carrier of the American Flag in at least one performance. A second is the determination with which the children work to learn their musical pieces for the shows. “e Fife and Drum Corps is a great way to build a child’s selfconfidence and to teach them how to work in a group, “said McCawley Giraldo. “e kids love the music but they also have a real sense of pride when they have a good performance.”
“Georgia and John are phenomenal with the kids and amazing at what they do so the kids really learn a lot and are always being challenged,” offered Tessa McCawley Giraldo, parent and Corps cocoordinator. From 2000 until last year, Greg Hernandez, master fifer, instructed Linton Hall’s Fife Line. Hernandez can be seen as a re-enactment fife player in the motion picture, Gods and Generals (2003). Due to a career move out of state, Hernandez was unable to continue with the Linton Hall Corps this year, but Anneliese, who has played the fife since the age of five and is an accomplished member of the American Originals, stepped in. e level of talent on instruction team, which is made up of volunteers, and the level of commitment from the young students and their families results in a number of benefits. is Corps has, over the years, turned out a number of students who have become part of adult groups. ey have gone on to professional status and work within touring companies. Anneliese is a good example of this unique and transforming passion. Another student who got his
Linton Hall School sOtudents Olivia Giraldo (Oleft) and Patrick BazOaco, are members of the LinOton Hall School FifeO and Drum Corps. The drums they use are handmOade by a PennsylvaniaO artisan.
Poole added, “I think the Corps teaches commitment and dedication. I (also) like how the Corps teaches the students patriotism and cooperation.” Over the years, the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps have performed for a number of televised, meaningful and distinguished audiences. ey have played engagements for the 275th Birthday of Prince William County as well as for the Smithsonian UdvarHazy Museum honoring scientists and local citizens, and the Diocesan Institute at Bishop O’Connell High School. Being in such close proximity to the nation’s capital has provided the ultimate experiences for the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps. ey have presented at venues such as Mount Vernon, the Washington D.C. St. Patrick’s Day Parades, and the Memorial Day and “A Capitol Fourth” programs that aired on PBS prime time. In 2009, the Corps marched, for the first time, with the American (continues on page 28) prince william livieng July 2011 | 23
(continued from page 27)
Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sean Connaughton has always been a fan of the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps. Just as he supported their work in his capacity as Prince William County Board of Supervisors chairman, he continues to invite the Corps to perform for various functions hosted by his new oďŹƒce. And in April 2010 the Corps bid a farewell performance to Gen. Gero Schachthofer, the commander of the German Armed Forces Command for the U.S. and Canada. In celebration of his leadership, retirement and return to Germany, Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps students and alumni joined to give what could perhaps be one of the best recitals of their history. For all these dignitaries and distinguished audiences, Linton Hall School has hosted a patriotic presence. As Dantzler described it, all recipients of these performances were spellbinding, leaving members of the audience in tears. “And our children were there performing those patriotic songs that we were raised with,â€? said
“It is diďŹƒcult to say how meaningful this endeavor has become,â€? said Dantzler. â€œî “e work that produces the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps is a labor of love for our heritage, our country and our wonderful school.â€? For more information about Linton Hall School or about the Linton Hall School Fife and Drum Corps, their upcoming performances or about booking them for an event, contact the school’s main oďŹƒce at (703) 368-3157.
A nonprofit development director for 10 years, Jennifer Rader now works as a freelance writer and consultant. She lives with her son and husband in Manassas.
NN
I E LAN D
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î “e Linton Hall Fife and Drum Corps is representative of what is a special and a rare opportunity for our youth to, as Georgia points out, tie the past to the present.
I
î “e Corps has performed for the likes of former President George H. Bush, former Vice President Dick Cheney, former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, former Secretary of State and retired four-star Army Gen. Colin Powell and Bishop Loverde of the Catholic Diocese of Arlington.
Dantzler. â€œî “e children themselves were proud of their accomplishment, because they worked so hard to perfect (each) song.â€?
M
Originals Fife and Drum Corps in the First Veterans Day Parade in Old Towne Manassas.
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tambourines and elephants :-) By DeeDee Corbitt Sauter I am not sure how the emoticons came into being. :-) I am also uncertain of how the emoticon is supposed to assuage the feelings of disappointment or mitigate the rough edges of anger. That is a great deal of power given to a parenthesis and a colon, and to a semicolon, if the author is feeling especially flirty. ;-) I personally enjoy the dash as a symbol for the nose. I like the fact that all emotions are lying on their sides as if they had just been run over by a truck. In reality, I don’t like emoticons at all. They are annoying and seem to have been invented so something rude can be written but then if it is followed a face made entirely by punctuation, you can’t get mad. It’s all in the keystroke. Long ago, when I was young, girls who had the letter “I” in their names could make some fashionable hearts, faces, squiggles or even use a different pen color to dot that “I.” Those girls later grew up and not only stopped using the dressed up dot but changed their names entirely. Katie became Kathleen. Cindi went back to Cindy. Annie shortened her name to Ann. No I’s. No décor. Emoticons are for people who seem to have always wanted an “I” in their name. And they are out of control. Everyone now gets to add randomness to their written musings. I remember the days before texting; it wasn’t too long ago. As it became a popular form of communication, it was theorized that civilized people would forget how to converse with each other intelligently in both the written and spoken form. Messages were created using 160 characters and were devoid of all grammatical structure. Phonetic, one-letter abbreviations replaced entire words. But books are still being written, people can still read and the world has not reverted to hieroglyphics to communicate. Unless, of course, you consider the smiley face a hieroglyphic. The sideways, emoting, disembodied face is
supposed to tell you how you should feel while reading. Apparently it makes it easier. Recently, I thought I was being hilarious and was whipping out what I knew were amazing oneliners of intense jocularity during a texting session. While I was laughing hysterically at my own wit, my friend came back with the question, “Are you mad?” I quickly assured her I was not and explained my humor was not translating well. I hastily decided to end that communiqué with a winky face. Now I have no idea if she was reassured, if she thinks I was mocking her or if we are now dating. Just this year, an experienced, skilled, fourth grade teacher I know actually had to tell a student, “You cannot put an emotion in the title of your research paper about Thomas Jefferson.” I am certain the student just wanted to be sure her teacher was in the appropriate frame of mind when reading it. You never want the grader to be despondent before marking up your hard work. Either that or the child was implying that Thomas Jefferson invented the emoticon. I understand the problem is often that the writer is not able to fully immerse you in his feelings and therefore the help of the emoticon is needed. Texting is meant to be used for quick commentary and research papers are not normally written via a short phone burst which is why the emoticon is not accepted in that case. It was nice that the teacher set the child straight. To stop beating around the bush, emoticons drive me insane. I have received apologies with smilies, which makes me wonder whether the apologizer is actually feeling remorse. A friend sent an RSVP saying she would not be in town for an event and ended it with a winkie face. What did that mean? Did she want me to leave town with her? Would you wink in real life? I should have responded with the vague :/ face. I think that means I have a straight face and do not have any emotions. And why do some emoticons have glasses if the writer doesn’t wear glasses? Of what value do the tongue-
sticking-out emoticons have? Keep your tongue in your mouth and out of digital media. I tend to write emails and notes in list form, void of many flowery descriptors. I have been asked if I am upset simply because official communication is so succinct. Using emoticons would probably be considered hypocritical now, so I want to assure you I am rarely mad or upset. I will let you know in words if I am. >:O Next time we will discuss overused abbreviations. LOL :-) DeeDee Corbitt Sauter is a resident of Prince William County. Her column, “Tambourines and Elephants,” appears monthly in Prince William Living.
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Advertiser Index Ameriprise Financial..................25 AVON ..........................................28 Bargain Relo ................................9 Darby Brooke Nutrition ............28 Discover Prince William & Manassas ................................11 Edgemoor Art Studio ................28 Heartbeats Infant Nursing Services ......................................28 HomeCleaners4You ..................28 I-95 Business Parks Management ................................6 lia sophia ....................................28 Lustine Automall ......................C2 Mary Kay/Marti Hall ..................28 Minnieland ................................24 Okra’s ..........................................21 Peggy and Bill Burke, Long & Foster Realtors..............24 Pink Lipstick Women Empowered ................................28 Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School ................28 Your Life is Our Blueprint
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(in partnership with Little Hands) July 5–7, 9:30 a.m.; July 11–13, 2011, 9:30 a.m.; July 18–20, 9:30 a.m.; July 25–27, 9:30 a.m. Hylton Center Rehearsal Room & Costume Shop Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle | Manassas Come take a world tour of great music! From Africa to the Caribbean Islands, and all around Asia to our own “backyard,” this integrated arts camp with music, dance and art will be presented by professional early childhood music and movement educators! We’ll sing, dance, play and create with songs and stories from around the world! Each day will include time for hands-on music making, story telling, dance and movement, “jam session” and an art project. All craft items, instruments and props provided. Children will be grouped according to age. ere will be different activities each week so you can sign up for one week or all four! Classroom tour and family activity at the end of every week. Classes run from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Contact program coordinator Beth Frook at bfrook@littlehands.com or visit http://potomacacademy.gmu.edu/hylton/Artsimm.html for more information.
The Castleton Festival at the Hylton July 7, 14 and 21, 8 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center | Merchant Hall 10960 George Mason Circle | Manassas Maestro Lorin Maazel and Dietlinde Maazel, co-artistic directors of the Castleton Festival; Craig Gerhart, chairman of the Hylton Executive Board; and Jean Kellogg, executive director of the Hylton Performing Arts Center, cordially invite your patronage for three extraordinary evenings at the Hylton Performing Arts Center on George Mason University’s Prince William Campus. Tickets are $30, $45 and $60. Contact Una Murphy, either by e-mail at umurphy@gmu.edu, or by phone at or (703) 9938621, or visit www.hyltoncenter.org/support/Castleton/ CastletonFestival.html for more information.
Sesquicentennial of the First Battle of Manassas July 21–24 Manassas National Battlefield Park | Manassas e National Park Service invites the public to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas, through participating in a variety of special programs and activities at Manassas National Battlefield Park July 21–24. e commemorative program schedule includes special ranger tours of the battlefield, living history and historic weapons demonstrations, exhibits, lectures, and music. e commemorative program will open at 9:30 a.m. on July 21, with a ceremony on the grounds of the Visitor Center on Henry Hill. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/mana/parknews/ index.htm. Other events from July 21–24 will include Camp Manassas, featuring military encampments, blacksmith, soap making, cooking demonstration, and medical area with operating tents and ambulances; tours of the City of Manassas’ historic properties; and more. Living history exhibits are planned
calendar for the Lawn of Manassas Museum, Liberia Plantation, Mayfield Fort, and Jennie Dean Historical Site. For a complete listing of city events, visit www.manassascivilwar.org. Presale tickets are available online and parking will be provided at the Prince William County Fairgrounds.
Reenactment of the First Battle of Manassas July 21 Manassas National Battlefield Park | Manassas e reenactment of the First Battle of Manassas will be held adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park with up to 12,000 re-enactors presenting the first major battle of the American Civil War. Tickets to the reenactment are available by presale only at www.manassasbullrun.com in a variety of packages; costs range up to $24 per person for transportation, admission and bleacher seating for an adult.
100th Anniversary of the National Jubilee of Peace July 21, 4 p.m. Loy E. Harris Pavilion | Old Town Manassas On July 21, the 100th Anniversary of the National Jubilee of Peace will be recreated on the steps of the Old Manassas Courthouse at the intersection of Lee and Grant Streets at 4 p.m. An original drama will be presented with a complete cast of actors and actresses, period vehicles, and contemporary elected officials including the recreation of an address by President Howard Taft. It will be followed by period music and dance lessons at the Loy E. Harris Pavilion in Old Town Manassas at 7 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.
Civil War Military Parade July 22, 10 a.m. On July 22, Civil War re-enactors from around the country will march through the streets of Manassas in a Civil War military parade at 10 a.m. Starting on July 22 and continuing through July 24, the city will also host Civil War Baseball Tournaments, where modern teams will play using 1860s rules.
july
Arts Immersion Summer Camps
Gods and Generals, Director’s Cut
July 22, 3 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center | Merchant Hall 10960 George Mason Circle | Manassas On Friday, July 22, the director’s cut of the film Gods and Generals will be premiered. Join Journey rough Hallowed Ground, Warner Brothers Entertainment Group, the Virginia Film Office, director Ron Maxwell and stars from the film at Merchant Hall, Hylton Performing Arts Center. e event begins at 3 p.m. with a panel discussion; the film screening begins at 5. Tickets, which can be purchased online at www.hallowedground.org, are $61 each with proceeds benefitting the Journey rough Hallowed Ground Partnership. Have an event you’d like to publicize? For consideration, email calendar@princewillTiamliving.com.
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Minnieland at Dominion Valley 5255 Merchants View Square | Haymarket
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Minnieland at Gainesville 8299 Harness Shop Road | Gainesville
Big Lots 13969 Jefferson Davis Hwy | Woodbridge
Minnieland at Heathcote 15040 Heathcote Blvd | Gainesville
City of Manassas 9027 Center St. | Manassas
Minnieland at Heritage Hunt 7101 Heritage Village Plaza | Gainesville
Prince William Public Library System–Potomac Community Library 2201 Opitz Boulevard | Woodbridge
Clairmont School and Childcare Center 3551 Waterway Drive | Dumfries
Minnieland at Montclair 5101 Waterway Drive | Montclair
Prince William County Tourist Information Center 200 Mill Street | Occoquan
Constance S. Bourne Law Office Elder & Disability Law 7915 Lake Manassas Drive | Gainesville
Minnieland at Occoquan 12908 Occoquan Road | Woodbridge
Safeway 2042 Daniel Stuart Square | Woodbridge
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Minnieland at Technology Drive 9511 Technology Drive | Manassas
Safeway 4240 Merchant Plaza | Woodbridge
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Minnieland at Wellington 10249 Hendley Road | Manassas
Safeway 12821 Braemar Village Plz | Bristow
Minnieland Corporate Offices 4300 Prince William Parkway | Woodbridge
Shopper’s Food and Pharmacy 9540 Liberia Ave | Manassas
Minnieland Infant & Toddler Center 3800 North Forestdale Road | Dale City
Shopper’s Food and Pharmacy 14000 Shoppers Best Way | Woodbridge
Northern Virginia Community College Manassas Campus | 6901 Sudley Road
Shoppers Food and Pharmacy 4174 Fortuna Center Plaza | Dumfries
Northern Virginia Community College Woodbridge Campus | 15200 Neabsco Mills Road
Shopper’s Food and Pharmacy 10864 Sudley Manor Drive | Manassas
Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School 17700 Dominican Drive | Dumfries
The Sign Shop 2603 Morse Lane | Woodbridge
Prince William Public Library System–Independent Hill Neighborhood Library 14418 Bristow Road | Manassas
Stratford University 14349 Gideon Drive | Woodbridge
Darby Brooke Nutrition 12650 Darby Brooke Court | Woodbridge Doctors Express 4167 Merchant Plaza | Woodbridge Ebenezer Baptist Church 13020 Telegraph Road | Woodbridge The House, Inc. Student Leadership Center 14001 Crown Court | Woodbridge Independent Hill Neighborhood Library 14418 Bristow Road | Manassas Kids on the Move/Church on the Move 13061 Touchstone Circle | Woodbridge Laser Quest 14517 Potomac Mills Road | Woodbridge Lustine Toyota 14227 Jefferson Davis Highway | Woodbridge Manassas Christian Academy 8757 Signal Hill Road | Manassas Manassas Christian School 9296 West Carondelet Drive | Manassas Manassas Park -Parks and Recreation 99 Adams Street | Manassas The Merit School of Prince William 14308 Spriggs Road | Woodbridge Minnieland at Ashland 5555 Assateague Place | Manassas Minnieland at Braemar 12700 Correen Hills Drive | Bristow Minnieland at Bristow 10368 Bristow Center | Bristow Minnieland at Cardnial 10910 Feeder Lane | Woodbridge Minnieland at Cloverdale 3498 Cranmer Mews | Woodbridge Minnieland at Dale City 13923 Minnieville Road | Woodbridge
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Prince William Public Library System–Dumfries Neighborhood Library 18007 Dumfries Shopping Plaza | Dumfries Prince William Public Library System– Gainesvilrhood Neighborhood Library 4603 James Madison Highway | Haymarket
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Prince William Public Library System–Dale City Neighborhood Library 4249 Dale Blvd | Dale City
prince william livieng July 2011 | 29
Celebrating
PeACe
n
By Carla Christiano, Contributing Writer o one had thought it was possible in 1861. But the 350 Confederate veterans and 175 Union veterans who faced each other on the old Manassas Battlefield in 1911 were living proof: former foes could be friends. Fifty years before, on July 21, 1861, they had faced each other on that very battlefield. ey had been bitter enemies then. Dressed in the uniforms of their countries, they had witnessed their comrades die. Untested soldiers, they had thought the war would be over in just one battle. Now as old men with wounds from long ago, they knew otherwise. Dressed in their best suits and with ribboned badges pinned to their lapels, they had returned to the Manassas Battlefield on July 21, but this time in peace, to reconcile old wounds, battles that pitted brother against brother, and a nation in civil war. ey had come to celebrate the nation’s first ever Peace Jubilee. At the signal, they faced each other once again. is time they had no swords or muskets. is time as old soldiers, they just shook hands.
The Idea for Reconciliation e idea for the 1911 Peace Jubilee came from a query written to Washington Post editors by a Confederate veteran in January 1911. Seventy-one-year-old George C. Round, a Union veteran and respected community leader who had settled in Manassas after the war, read it and agreed. He and other community members formed a committee that in a few months created an historical event—one that not only included the veterans, but the governor of Virginia, omas Hodges Mann—the last Virginia governor to have been a Confederate soldier, as well as United States President William Howard Taft, and thousands from across the country.
Four Days of Celebration Festivities began on July 16, 1911, and stretched over four days, involving most Manassas residents who decorated the town, fed
and housed visitors, and even transported the visitors in horsedrawn wagons to the battlefield for the reconciliation. e Peace Jubilee included concerts and campfires at the courthouse, tours of local battlefields, speeches and sermons, and most importantly the reconciliation of the Union and Confederate soldiers, witnessed by thousands, on the old battlefield. Ken Elston, artistic director for Footsteps in Time who has developed a play based on the 1911 Peace Jubilee for its centennial, said, “e significance of the Jubilee is the celebration of peace. We are the one nation in the world to suffer a protracted civil conflict and come out of it stronger as a nation for it. We put our past in the past… A handshake may not be as flashy as gunfire and saber battles, but it is far more profound as a symbol of America’s strength.” President Taft, whose speech concluded the 1911 event, said to the throngs gathered at the Prince William County Courthouse, “erefore I look to you, veterans of the Civil War, to aid in the movement of peace… I know they will most appreciate permanent peace.” Ken Elston’s play will be performed on July 21, 2011 at 4 p.m. at the Old Courthouse in Manassas. Judge D. Scott Bailey will play President Taft. Doug Nelson and Larry Keeling will play local characters George Round and Edmund Berkley. According to Elston, “the play will have comedy, music, dancing and a few speeches.”
Carla Christiano, a native of Prince William County, works as a technical writer and editor for Unisys. She holds an M.A. degree in English from George Mason University.
Remembering
Jennie Dean By Olivia Overman, Contributing Writer
J
ane Serepta Dean, also known as “Jennie Dean,” was born into slavery in 1852 and was a teenager when emancipation took place in 1865. At age 14, she left Prince William County and went to work in Washington, D.C., as domestic help. The money she earned she used to support the African-American community in Manassas, the story of which will be told during the anniversary events. “Although Jennie Dean was influential after the Civil War, and the commemorations at our other sites focus on the Civil War, we thought it would be important to have an African-American perspective after the Civil War, and to see how the community progressed after the end of slavery,” said Lisa Sievel-Otten of the Manassas Museum. “Jennie Dean accomplished amazing things, and to do what she did when African-Americans had so few opportunities, makes it even more noteworthy,” she explained. To commemorate her life and her accomplishments, Marion Dobbins will be performing three daily programs about Jennie Dean July 21–24. Dobbins is an accomplished interpreter who performs slave interpretations, and has a special interest in Jennie Dean. “After the Civil War, Dean decided to bring education to AfricanAmericans in Northern Virginia. She became a spokesperson for African-Americans and managed to get influential people, including the Scottish-American industrialist, Andrew Carnegie, to provide support,” said Dobbins. The Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth was officially opened on October 1, 1894. Training included dressmaking, mending and plain sewing, cooking, housekeeping, laundry work, poultry raising, and woodwork for girls. Boys were taught carpentry, farming, gardening and blacksmithing. In 1861 there were 4.5 million African-Americans enslaved in the
southern states, and then, all of a sudden, they were free. So what do you do with them? Dean’s goal was to turn ex-slaves into productive citizens. “The school was a catalyst for the education of exslaves that eventually became the only school for African-Americans in Northern Virginia. Children, including many of Dobbins’ relatives from Mount Vernon, Fairfax County and the surrounding counties, were bussed to the Jennie Dean school,” she explained. Dobbins’ passion for the story of Jennie Dean was palpable when she explained the backdrop to Dean’s story: “from coming out of nothing, to becoming great,” she said. The important message from her life story is that “an ex-slave decided she was going to make a difference—one person can make a difference, one vote counts.” Marion Dobbins will portray Jennie Dean on July 21-24 at the Jennie Dean Historical Site on Wellington Road in Manassas.
A graduate of American University’s School of Communication, Olivia Overman has written articles for a number of online and print publications. She lives with her husband and son in Woodbridge.