Fredericksburg is a city with centuries of history, from John Smith's visit in 1608 to Marquis de Lafayette's march against the British Regulars. Its past and present together comprise an impressive built environment, from industrial buildings to painted period homes connected by winding streets that provide an unparalleled view of time-honored districts and crafted landscapes.
Fredericksburg is a city with distinguished character and identity rooted in its remarkable history. John Smith, pioneer and explorer of the Chesapeake Bay, was among the first to visit this area in 1608. Alexander Spotswood, an influential figure in the colonial period, established an iron industry upstream from the city before it was founded. The Rappahannock River acted as the backdrop to George Washington's childhood, and the historic streets of Fredericksburg later hosted Marquis de Lafayette and his division of Continental soldiers as they marched south to confront the British Regulars under Lord Cornwallis.Founding of James Monroe
James Monroe's Founding and Early History - Election to Local Governing Body - Prosperity Brought by Piedmont River - Economic Recovery During Civil War Period - Continued Economic Connectivity Through Railroads and Roadways - New Residents Drawn To Quiet, Dynamic Community The city of James Monroe has a rich history that goes back to its founding, when the young attorney was elected to the local governing body. From then, the Piedmont river brought much-needed prosperity and during the Civil War period, it drove economic recovery in the aftermath. Today, the city is still connected to the larger economy through a railroad and roadways, which have seen new residents flock to this quiet yet dynamic community.Continuity of the Built Environment
The built environment of Downtown Fredericksburg is a testament to its long and rich history. Spanning centuries, it is comprised of a mix of grand residences, industrial buildings, warehouses, and churches that create a vibrant urban landscape. Lower Caroline Street features some of the oldest surviving buildings in town, dating back to 1737, while upper Caroline Street is home to industrial structures. William Street is the center of the business district, Princess Anne Street serves as the government corridor, and warehouses have been adapted for new uses near the railway. Residential areas are close-knit neighborhoods with distinct architectural styles from different time periods. All these elements are tied together by the church steeples that defined the Civil War skyline. Despite the introduction of modern automobile traffic, the historic street grid operates remarkably well. This illustrates the timelessness of the built environment of Downtown Fredericksburg. Downtown Fredericksburg is an impressive display of continuity, boasting a built environment that spans nearly three centuries. From the oldest surviving building in town, dating back to 1737, to the newest one still under construction, history and modernity come together to create a unique landscape of grand residences on lower Caroline Street, industrial buildings on upper Caroline Street, William Street as the focus of the business district, Princess Anne Street as the government corridor, and warehouses adapted to new uses next to a railway. The many residential areas are close-knit neighborhoods with distinctive architectural characteristics from their respective periods of development, all presided over by church steeples that defined the Civil War skyline. Despite modern automobile traffic, the historic street grid operates amazingly well, proving its timelessness.
The Historic District: Fredericksburg's Heart and Soul
Fredericksburg is a highly desirable place to live and do business, renowned for its quality of life, small-town atmosphere, and unique sense of place. These characteristics are largely attributable to the Historic District, where interconnected streets, shaded sidewalks, and safe street crossings create a vibrant mix of residential and commercial activities. This environment encourages social interaction and fosters exchange between citizens as they go about their daily lives. Fredericksburg's Historic District is the community's heart and soul, contributing greatly to its identity and sense of community.Embracing Change While Preserving History
Fredericksburg is a proud city that celebrates its history and embraces change. Historic preservation is essential to maintain the character of the community, but it should not be viewed as a recreation of the past. The Historic District serves as a reference point for progress and shows how the city functions and grows over time. Historic buildings are routinely adapted and upgraded to remain economically viable while still preserving their defining features. New buildings that integrate into the cityscape will eventually become historic in their own right. By removing insignificant or unusable buildings, Fredericksburg can continue to develop and move forward.Local Preservation Legislation
Fredericksburg offers its Historic District Handbook (PDF) which provides city residents with a resource for understanding and respecting the city's historic character. The publication includes sections on local preservation legislation, citizen review boards, public participation, architectural history, glossary of terms, and more.Historic District Survey and Tax Credit
The City of Fredericksburg and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) proudly partnered in 2006 to initiate a multi-phase survey (PDF) of all buildings within the current Fredericksburg Historic District and within a potential boundary expansion. To further support the local community, the City of Fredericksburg offers qualified residents a tax credit for improving residential property in the Historic District. Those interested can contact the Real Estate section of the Office of the Commissioner of the Revenue at 540-372-1207 for more information.Fredericksburg is a historic city filled with landmark buildings and a legendary past. While automobiles now stream along its ancient streets, the essence of this town has not disappeared. With bustling commerce, neighborhoods full of unique architecture, and monuments to George Washington's childhood on the Rappahannock River, it is easy to see why Fredericksburg will likely remain an area of charm and history for generations to come. Preservation comes naturally in such an old yet adaptive city, completing a circle of longevity that stretches from the early colonial period to today.
[button link="https://www.fredericksburgva.gov/201/Historic-District" newwindow="yes"]Explore Fredericksburg's History[/button]
