As 2023 approaches, there are several local events in the local Prince William County area. Below are a few that are taking place, courtesy of Prince William Parks, Recreation & Tourism:

Barnes House Open House – Saturday, February 4, 2023, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm (ages 2+)

Come explore the Barnes House. Built in 1797, the Barnes House is an average Prince William County residence, but the people who lived here were anything but typical. First used as a tavern, in 1899 Eppa Barnes bought the house where he was born into slavery. Join local historians for an open house to explore the exhibits highlighting the site’s diverse history and an amazing story of historic preservation in Prince William County.

Tastes of Home: African American Culture and American Cuisine – Saturday, February 18, 2023, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; and 1:00 – 3:00 pm (ages 13+) – $10.00

Many Southern dishes have their roots in west and central African culture that enslaved workers brought to America. Participants will be able to prepare and taste African and Southern dishes in the historic slave quarter at Ben Lomond. Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the weather. Advanced registration is required. Register here.

Who were they? The Enslaved People of Rippon Lodge – Saturday, February 18, 2023, 10:00 – 11:00 am or 1:00 – 2:00 pm

Continuing with Rippon Lodge Historic Site’s 275 years of history, come learn of the untold stories of the enslaved population during February, Black History Month. Tours will focus on the primary documentation found for both the colonial and early Victorian eras. Space is limited. $10 fee and you may purchase tickets here.

Lecture Series: The Preserve: Reconstructing an African American Neighborhood in The Bull Run Mountains – Thursday, February 23, 2023, 7:30 – 8:00 pm (ages 10+) – FREE

Historian and archaeologist Patrick O’Neill will share his research on local African American communities in the Bull Run Mountains. Lecture will take place at the Old Manassas Courthouse

Lucasville School Open House – Saturday, February 25 & 26, 2023, 11:00 – 4:00 pm (ages 2+)

Reconstruction in the wake of the Civil War brought with it new opportunities for African Americans in Prince William County. Four years before they had been barred from learning to read and write by Virginia state law, though that did not stop them from learning on their own or others teaching them despite the severe punishments possible. Now schools would open for the instruction of all who wished to attend. These early schools faced many obstacles, from irregular funding, teacher shortages, political threats, and even open violence. Join us as we commemorate African American History Month at historic Lucasville School and visit the reconstructed 19th century school for a discussion about how people met these challenges and overcame them to help build a better future.

For other events, check out the Winter edition of Leisure magazine.