Area Resources
Sister Northern Neck and Virginia Historic Sites
George Washington Birthplace National Monument
is located in the Northern Neck of Virginia. It encompasses 551 acres of land where seven generations of the Washington family lived and where George Washington was born in 1732. The park was also central to one of the earliest efforts to memorialize George Washington during the celebration of his bicentennial birth anniversary in 1932. (photo courtesy of National Park Service). Visit Website, HERE.
The James Monroe Birthplace Park & Museum
supported by the James Monroe Memorial Foundation is located in the Northern Neck of Virginia. The aim of the Foundation are: to spread an appreciation of James Monroe and to honor the principles of just government and righteousness exemplified in his life and in his work. In particular, the Foundation dedicates itself to strengthening the adherence of all Americans to the views expressed by him in the Monroe Doctrine and other documents.
Visit Website, HERE.
King George Historical Society
was organized in 1994 and was created to identify and preserve historical materials relative to King George County and the surrounding area. Members of the Society are dedicated to its Mission and are very enthusiastic about history and genealogy and are motivated to action by any number of events: saving an old building from destruction, celebrating a centennial, writing a local history, or acquiring historical materials and documents from defunct organizations
Visit Website, HERE.
Stratford Hall
A National Historic Landmark, Stratford Hall is home to some of America’s most influential patriots and the only brothers to sign the Declaration of Independence, Richard Henry Lee and Francis Lightfoot Lee. Stratford Hall brings together people from around the world to experience two-thousand acres of natural and human history, preserved and presented so that we can all learn from the courageous struggles of our ancestors, taking inspiration both from what they endured and what they accomplished.
Visit Website, HERE.
Menokin
Menokin, the home of Francis Lightfoot Lee — a signer of the Declaration of Independence — is a National Historic Landmark and, like our country, built on the contradictions of slavery. It is one of the best documented 18th century houses in the United States. Menokin’s 500 acres are an unspoiled, waterfront refuge featuring pristine bird habitats, remnants of the 18th-century agricultural landscape and terraced gardens, and miles of woodland trails. Menokin also offers seasonal kayak rentals through Rappahannock Outdoor Adventures.
Visit Website, HERE.
Westmoreland State Park
On the Potomac River's Northern Neck, this park offers many opportunities for family fun. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has a bathhouse, meeting area, snack bar, camp store and power-boat ramp. You'll also find a visitor center, campgrounds, camping cabins, cabins, a playground, a fishing pier, boat rentals and 6 miles of trails. Fossil collectors enjoy hunting for ancient shark teeth along the Potomac.
Visit Website, HERE.
Westmoreland County Museum
Founded in 1939, the Westmoreland County Museum, Inc. preserves and advances the history of our special place in the Northern Neck. Stop by the original museum to view the Charles Willson Peale painting of William Pitt (Lord Chatham) from 1768, as well as furniture donated by the Washington family. The Historic Courthouse features rotating exhibits on local history and includes the Henry Hungerford Library and Genealogical Research Center.
Visit Website, HERE.
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture
The Virginia Museum of History and Culture founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical and Philosophical Society and headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, is a major repository, research, and teaching center for Virginia history. It is a private, non-profit organization, supported almost entirely by private contributions. In 2004, it was designated the official state historical society of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Visit Website, HERE.
The Washington Parish Museum
The Washington Parish Museum was recently established to highlight early church history on the Northern Neck. For example, St. Peter's, Oak Grove, was founded by historic figures like George Washington's great grandfather, John. Featuring graphic displays and artifacts that honor the 175 year history of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, the museum also highlights other churches that have formed Washington Parish over the years.
Numerous hands-on activities for visitors of all ages include tombstone rubbing, events detailing early church brick making, and John Washington's seamanship challenges on his ill-fated trip to Virginia. Visitors can listen to recorded music from the historic 1849 Erban organ, unfortunately destroyed in the December 2023 fire.
Visit Website, HERE.