Pine Needle Coiled Baskets
2026-02-21 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Create a beautiful, functional coiled basket using pine needles from the eastern U.S. Learn to collect, prepare, and store needles, explore stitching techniques, and add embellishments like beads. No experience needed; all materials provided.

Intro to Weaving on the Warp Weighted Loom: Mug Rugs
2026-02-21 09:00 - 17:00
Explore one of the oldest weaving techniques in this hands-on class using a warp weighted loom. Learn about its Viking-age history and regional styles while weaving your own set of mug rugs. No experience needed.

Fundamentals of Tablet Weaving
2026-02-21 09:00 - 17:00
Discover the ancient art of tablet weaving, a technique using square cards to create colorful, patterned bands. In this class, you’ll learn the basics of warping, weaving, and how patterns emerge, with a brief look at historical uses

Introduction Stone Carving: Relief and Letter Carving
2026-02-21 09:00 - 17:00
Learn traditional stone carving using hand tools through guided exercises with the three main chisels. Students will create a simple relief carving in limestone, then explore letter design and carve one or more letters in soapstone. Each student will leave with a finished carved stone featuring both a relief and lettering.

Distaff Spinning with Suspended Spindle
2026-02-22 09:00 - 15:00
Discover the ancient art of suspended spinning as practiced in Nordic culture during the Viking Age. Learn the history, symbolism, and tools of distaff spinning, then try your hand at preparing fiber and practicing spinning techniques. Beginners and history enthusiasts alike will enjoy this unique hands-on experience.

Waterford Through Their Eyes: Black Families Experiences in the Landmark from the late Revolutionary era through the mid-20th Century
2026-03-01 14:00 - 15:30
Join local historians Bronwen and John Souders- authors of A Rock in a Weary Land, a Shelter in a Time of Storm: African-American Experience in Waterford, Virginia– in a discussion about the experiences and family stories of Black residents in Waterford from the late Revolutionary era through the mid-20th century, and their experiences diving into the history of the Waterford National Historic Landmark!
Date and Time: Sunday, March 1st at 2pm
Location: Waterford Old School (40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA 20197)
Cost: Free!
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Afterwards, explore the Village on a guided walking tour by skilled docents to continue to dive into the African American history of the Waterford National Historic Landmark. Tickets for a guided walking tour are $20 per person, and can be purchased in advance here and on the day of the event.

African American History Walking Tour
2026-03-01 16:00 - 17:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
This tour’s tour theme is Black history. By 1830, one in four households in Waterford were headed by free Blacks. During the tour, you will be able to hear the stories of the families who lived here and helped build Waterford into the place we know today; while experiencing their surroundings and exploring buildings including the Second Street School and John Wesley Community Church.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Learn to Quilt: Improv Quilted Market Bag
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 14, 9 am – 5 pm & Sunday, March 15, 9 am – 3 pm
Explore the freedom of improv quilting in this two-day class as you experiment with color, shape, and design to create four unique quilt blocks. On the second day, turn your blocks into a fully lined market tote that’s both functional and expressive—a perfect project for building skills and showcasing your personal style.

Patriotic Pair: An Embroidered Celebration of America at 250
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 14, 9 am – 5 pm & Sunday, March 15, 9 am – 3 pm
Create a festive embroidered medallion celebrating America’s 250th birthday while learning a dozen classic stitches. The finished piece can be displayed in the provided hoop or adapted into an ornament or decorative accent and is best suited for students with basic needlework skills.

Large Utility Basket
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Learn to weave a large utility basket using reed and oak, perfect for blankets, pillows, laundry, or toys. Students will prepare materials, weave the base and sides, attach rims and handles, lash the basket, and secure oak runners with copper brads.

Making a Floorcloth from Start to Finish
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Create your own beautiful 2’ x 3’ painted canvas floorcloth in this one-day workshop! Popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as a durable and decorative floor covering, floorcloths are both practical and beautiful. Choose a diamond pattern, pick your colors, and bring your vision to life using provided paints and stencils—or your own designs. All materials are included

Waterford on the Rocks: Pub Trivia Night
2026-03-14 18:30 - 21:30
Join us for the Waterford on the Rocks Cocktail Series!
An evening of laughter and friendly competition awaits at the Second Annual Pub Trivia Night. Gather your friends and put your knowledge to the test in a fun atmosphere that promises great memories and benefits the Waterford Foundation. Celebrate St. Patrick’s day with friends, trivia, authentic pub food, and prizes!
Pub Trivia Night
Join us and test your knowledge at an evening of Pub Trivia.
Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Location: The Ephraim Schooley House (note new location!)

Tickets: Individual tickets on sale NOW! ($60) – Buy tickets online here!
Ticket purchase includes drinks, food, and trivia registration. Advance purchase only. Tickets will not be available at the door.
The Waterford Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit (EIN 54-0755457), and a portion of your ticket purchase may be tax deductible. Cocktail party value: $30 per ticket.

Small Market Basket
2026-03-15 09:00 - 15:00
Create a small market basket using traditional techniques. Students will work with natural reed and oak to prepare materials, weave the base and sides, attach rims and handles, and finish the basket with lashing.

Women's History Walking Tour
2026-03-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
This month’s walking tour theme is Women’s History. Come see the Village in which women owned businesses along Main Street and marketed their trade, three Quaker women wrote the Waterford News calling for a Union victory in the midst of the Civil War, and more!
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Kaleidoscope Ecoprinting on Silk and Wool
2026-04-17 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Explore colorful ecoprinting on silk and wool using plants from nature. Learn techniques that create layered, multi colored designs inspired by stained glass and kaleidoscope patterns. Students will leave with a silk scarf and a merino wool scarf and the skills to continue ecoprinting at home.

Jewelry Making Workshop
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
This two-part jewelry workshop explores wire and bead techniques followed by resin jewelry making. In the first session, learn about wire types, gauges, and tools while creating silver wire earrings and an adjustable ring. In the second, use UV resin, molds, and dried florals to craft nature-inspired earrings or pendants

Architecture Walking Tour
2026-04-18 16:00 - 17:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
This month’s theme is historic architecture. Come do a deep dive into the built environment of the Village of Waterford, learn more about the architectural styles prevalent in the Village, and some of the stories behind some of the well known buildings in Waterford!
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Annual Meeting
2026-04-21 18:00 - 20:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Annual Meeting & Awards Celebration
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 6 pm
at the Old Waterford School
40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford, Virginia

Knitting in the Gaps: Women Showing Up For The Fight
2026-04-25 14:00 - 16:00
Come join us for an afternoon of craft and history! Bring your current crafting project with you (knitting or not) to work on, trade crafting tips and project ideas with other craft and history lovers, and discover how knitting became an act of patriotism, survival, and solidarity during the Civil War with special guest speaker public historian and knitting enthusiast Susan Chumley!
About the Speaker: Susan Chumley is a former Park Ranger and Public Historian with the National Park Service. She served for six years interpreting, primarily, early American and American Civil War history at Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial overlooking Arlington National Cemetery. In addition, Susan completed a 25 year career with the United States Air Force Band as a trombonist in the Ceremonial Brass. She is now retired and enjoys knitting, riding long distances on her bicycle, and expanding her knowledge on underrepresented people and cultures in American history.

Knitting in the Gaps: Women Showing up for the Fight Lyceum
Date: Saturday April 25th
Time: 2pm
Price: Free!
RSVPs are not required, but encouraged. You can RSVP at this link!

10th Annual Historic Waterford Trail Run
2026-05-09 08:00 - 12:00
2026 Historic Waterford 5K/10K Trail Run/Walk
Registration is NOW OPEN
Lace Up for the Landmark!
Join us Saturday, May 9, 2026 for a 5K/10K trail run and Fun Run through the scenic trails, vineyards, and streets of historic Waterford, Virginia. This will be an in-person event.

The course follows paved/gravel roads & scenic trails through the Waterford National Historic Landmark and surrounding farms and vineyards.
Runners will receive a handcrafted medal and a commemorative race shirt.
Visit nearby Loudoun wineries, breweries, restaurants and coffee shops after the race!

Event Information:
Registration is NOW OPEN

8:30 am: 10K start
8:40 am: 5K start
9:30 am: Awards
10:00 am: Fun Run start

Location:

Registration: Race day registration and packet pickup is at the Waterford Mill (40105 Main Street, Waterford, VA) from 8-8:45 am.
Start/Finish: All three races (5K, 10K and Fun Run) begin and end on Main Street behind the John Wesley Community Church (40125 Bond Street, Waterford, VA).
Parking: Parking is located a short walk away on the Phillips Farm on Old Wheatland Road. Use 40024 Old Wheatland Rd, Waterford, VA 20197 (Waterford Water Treatment Facility across Old Wheatland Road from the Phillips Farm) to navigate to the parking area and watch for the event parking signs. There is no parking at the registration area.
Road Closures: Roads will be closed through Waterford by 8:00 am. Please plan to arrive and park before 8:00 am.

Cancellation/Refunds:
Unfortunately, we cannot offer a refund for this event. Since we immediately spend the registration fee on ordering the medals, t-shirts and shipping, all sales are final.
Prize details:
Race medals and t-shirts will be provided to all participants (including Fun Run participants) at the race. There are no shirt size exchanges. Register by April 9, 2026 to guarantee your selected shirt size. Race packets must be picked up by race day. Leftover packets, including t-shirts, will be donated.
Race Results and Awards:
The top three overall male and female 5K and 10K finishers will receive awards. Race results will be posted on the PR Races website following the race.
Course details:
The 5K and 10K courses cover a variety of surfaces throughout the Waterford National Historic Landmark. Runners should expect rolling hills, mostly trails and gravel roads with some paved roads and the possibility for mud.

After Party:
Please join us a Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery for our annual after party from 11am-2pm on race day. More information about the after party can be found in the participant race packet.

Sponsorship

Historic Waterford Trail Run Sponsors support the preservation and education work of the Waterford Foundation while reaching over 500 runners and their families. Visit our Sponsor Application Form here.
Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors!
2026 Course Sponsors:

2026 Premier Sponsors:

2026 Gold Sponsors:

2026 Silver Sponsors:

The Branch
Loudoun Valley Roofing
Lovettsville Cooperative Market

Volunteer Opportunities Available

We rely on a strong and dedicate group of volunteers to put on the Historic Waterford Trail Run each year. Sign up to volunteer on race day!

Arts Connections Series
2026-05-11 13:00 - 15:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197

Historic Gardens Walking Tour
2026-05-16 16:00 - 17:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Waterford Open House
2026-05-30 - 2026-05-31
Have you ever wandered by the Second Street School or the Waterford Mill and wanted to learn more? Now’s your chance! Come take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of a village of ordinary people doing extraordinary things where the Village of Waterford and the surrounding farmland totaling 1,420 acres was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. First settled by Quakers in 1733, the Waterford National Historic Landmark has a long and storied history of agriculture, craft, industry, women’s history, African American history, and more!
We invite you and your family to come explore the historic village on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st through:

Exploring open historic buildings including an c.1817 mill that led the milling industry of Waterford and the 1867 one room African American schoolhouse open until 1957
Guided and self-guided walking tours of the Village of Waterford
Nature walk on a historic Quaker farm that is now conserved open space
Becoming a Junior Waterford Historian through children’s activities throughout the Village- from crafts, to plants, puzzles, and more!
Seeing a special travelling exhibit coming all the way from Richmond- Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture Presented by the Altria A Legacy Project of American Evolution Supported by Conrad and Peggy Hall, Mr. and Mrs. G. Gilmer Minor III

What is there to do at the Waterford Open House?
Explore the history of the Village in historic buildings and trails open in the Village and on a self-guided walking tour: Have you ever wandered by the Second Street School or the Waterford Mill and wanted to see inside? Now’s your chance! The historic buildings below will be open with exhibits, docents, and children’s activities to help you and your family dive into the history of Waterford.

The Waterford Mill– a c.1817 mill that helped lead the integral milling industry of the area. Located at 40105 Main Street, Waterford VA.
Second Street School- the Reconstruction era one-room African American schoolhouse that served African American children and families till 1957, when students were then bused into Leesburg to Douglas. Located at 15611 Second Street, Waterford VA.
The Waterford Old School– 1910 schoolhouse that served the White students of Waterford. Located at 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA.
Phillips Farm– historic farm owned by Quaker Thomas Phillips and his family that is now conserved farmland and open space with walking trails. Entrances to the Main Village Walking Trail is located behind the Mill and Second Street School, Western trail is located off of the Interpretive Pull-off.

To help with your walk around the Village, pick up a self guided walking tour booklet to learn more about the buildings and homes you are walking by on your time between stops!
Have fun with crafts, puzzles, and games throughout the Village to become a Junior Waterford Historian! Hey kids– do you want to be a Junior Waterford Historian? Come out for a day of hands on fun and learning, and fill out your passport at each spot marked on the map! Bring your passport to the Waterford Old School to get a prize!
Come see a special exhibit from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture! Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture Presented by the Altria A Legacy Project of American Evolution Supported by Conrad and Peggy Hall, Mr. and Mrs. G. Gilmer Minor III will be on display for the weekend- come see it before it goes back to Richmond! This very special exhibit can be seen at the Waterford Old School at 40222 Fairfax Street.
Learn about the ins and outs of historic preservation at the Preservation Academy: Have you wondered what historic preservation and environmental conservation is, and how it works in Loudoun and beyond? Join us at the Waterford Open House for this series of free talks diving into the ins and outs of historic preservation and environmental conservation, and how you can get involved given by experts from all over the county and beyond! Below is a list of programs available throughout the weekend. These are free to attend, but registration is encouraged. More will be added in the coming months, so stayed tuned!

Saturday, May 30th at 12:30pm-1:45pm: Historic Easements Workshop– Historic easements are an important tool in stewarding historic properties. Come join Claire Jones- Associate Director of the Easement Program at the National Trust for Historic Preservation- and Brad McDonald- Stewardship Coordinator and Archaeologist at the Virginia Department of Historic Resources- for a talk about what historic preservation easements are, how they assist in the stewardship of historic resources, how historic easements work, and how to put an easement in place. Registration for this free talk is not required, but encouraged and can be done at this link.
Saturday, May 30th at 3:30pm-4:45pm: Waterford Uncovered- How We Discover the Town’s Past & How You Can Research Your House’s History- Join historical consultant Debbie Robison for an exploration of how Waterford’s captivating past is discovered through fascinating local case studies, and walk away with the exact tools and investigative techniques needed to research your own property! Registration for this free talk is not required, but encouraged and can be done at this link.
Sunday, May 31st at 12:30pm-1:45pm: Uprooting the Invaders- Managing Invasive Plants to Restore a Healthy Environment– Invasive plants may look harmless, but these unassuming invaders cause harm to the environment, the economy, and the health of humans and our wildlife neighbors. Taking small actions to protect our native environment today will lay the foundation for a healthy habitat enjoyed by many more generations to come. Join Leah Sattler, Invasive Plant Species Management Program Administrator for the Loudoun Soil & Water Conservation District, for a talk that will explore the impacts of invasive plants, what can be done to preserve native habitat, and opportunities for assistance and collaboration. Registration for this free talk is not required, but encouraged and can be done at this link.
Sunday, May 31st at 2:00pm-3:15pm: Landowner Opportunities for Water and Habitat Restoration- The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) works to protect and restore the lands and waters of the Virginia Piedmont, while building stronger, more sustainable communities. Join October Greenfield and Linnea Sherman from PEC’s restoration team to learn more about PEC’s habitat-focused programs, including the Virginia Grassland Bird Initiative and Plantings for the Piedmont. This session is open to anyone interested in learning more about restoration opportunities in the region. Registration for this free talk is not required, but encouraged and can be done at this link.

SUNDAY ONLY: Get a free baby tree to plant! Planting for the Piedmont will be here on Sunday giving out free native baby trees for you to take home and plant, while supplies last! Pick up a baby tree on Sunday, May 31st from 12-5pm or while supplies last at the Waterford Old School.
*Dive further into the history of Waterford on a Guided Walking Tour: Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark and walk through the history of the village with an experienced docent! There are two approximately 90 minute long guided walking tours each day at 12:30pm and 2:30pm. Below are the walking tours available during the Waterford Open House:

Saturday, May 30th at 12:30pm: Historic Village Walking Tour– Dive into the history of the Village from an agricultural and industrial Village to a National Historic Landmark in this guided walking tour.
Saturday, May 30th at 2:30pm: Waterford in the Civil War Walking Tour– From the Battle of the Baptist Church, Waterford News, and more- come join a docent on a tour of the village to learn what life was like here during those four bloody years and beyond.
Sunday, May 31st at 12:30pm: Historic Village Walking Tour– Dive into the history of the Village from an agricultural and industrial Village to a National Historic Landmark in this guided walking tour.
Sunday May 31st at 2:30pm: African American History Walking Tour- By 1830, one in four households were headed by free Blacks. During this tour, you will be able to hear the stories of the families who lived here and helped build Waterford into the place we know today; while experiencing their surroundings and exploring buildings like the Second Street School.

Guided walking tours are approximately 90 minutes long, and leave from the Waterford Old School (40222 Fairfax Street). Tickets are $20, and can be either purchased ahead of time at this link or on the day of.

Waterford Open House FAQs:
Date and Time: Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12pm-5pm
Location: Waterford Foundation buildings throughout the Village of Waterford will be open for the public to come and explore, as well as activities for all ages at buildings throughout the Village. These will be marked on a map available at the event. Walking tours, check-in, and general information will be at the Waterford Old School at 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA
Parking: The Foundation suggests visitors park at the Waterford Old School- 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA
Is this event free? Yes! The exhibits and activities are largely self-guided (with maps available at the Waterford Old School and other properties). If you have questions, docents will be at each building that is open. However, if you want to participate in a guided walking tour, you do have to purchase a ticket.
Is this event child friendly? Yes! Children’s activities will be available at different spots around the Village. Children will also have the opportunity to participate in these activities with the opportunity to become a Junior Waterford Historian passports with a prize for each kid who completes it! Prizes are available at the Waterford Old School.
Are restrooms available? Yes, restrooms will be available at place marked on the map. Accessible restrooms are available at the Waterford Old School.

Historic Easements Workshop
2026-05-30 12:30 - 13:45 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Historic Easements Workshop:
Historic preservation easements are an important tool in stewarding historic properties. Come join Claire Jones, Associate Director of the Easements Program at the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Brad McDonald, Stewardship Coordinator and Archaeologist at the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, for a talk about what historic preservation easements are, how they assist in the stewardship of historic resources, how this integral tool works, and how to put an easement in place.
Date: Saturday, May 30th
Time: 12:30pm-1:45pm
Cost: Free! This talk is also part of the Waterford Open House weekend, explore more of Waterford’s history and preservation after this event!
RSVP: RSVPs are not required, but encouraged. You can RSVP prior to the event at this link.
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This program is part of the Waterford Open House Preservation Academy talk series, and is supported by a grant from the Van Huyck Chockley Family Foundation.

Historic Village Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-30 12:30 - 14:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before or after your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. Tickets are $20 and can be either purchased ahead of time at this link or at the event. Space is limited.

What does it mean to be "historic"? Historic Designations Demystified
2026-05-30 14:00 - 15:15 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
What does it mean to be “historic”? Historic Designations Demystified
Property owners in Waterford may notice several historic designations attached to their properties. What does it mean if a property is part of a National Historic Landmark (NHL), listed on the Virginia Landmarks Register or the Loudoun County Heritage Register, or in a County-designated Historic Overlay District? Historic preservation staff from the Loudoun County Department of Planning & Zoning will parse through these designations, explain resulting regulations, protections, and incentives, and answer questions from attendees.
About the Speaker: William Milone is a historic preservation planner in the Community Planning Division and Historic District Review Committee (HDRC) Liaison for Loudoun County Planning and Zoning. A local to this region, William Milone grew up in Alexandria’s Old and Historic District and fell in love with old places at an early age. William attended the University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville, where he graduated with a Bachelors in Architectural History and a Masters of Architectural History. He lives with his wife Emily in Downtown Leesburg in a mid-19th century home.
Date: Saturday, May 30th
Time: 2:00pm-3:15pm
Cost: Free! This talk is also part of the Waterford Open House weekend, explore more of Waterford’s history and preservation before and/or after this event!
RSVP: RSVPs are not required, but encouraged. You can RSVP prior to the event at this link.
—
This program is part of the Waterford Open House Preservation Academy talk series, and is supported by a grant from the Van Huyck Chockley Family Foundation.

Waterford in the Civil War Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-30 14:30 - 16:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
The focus of this tour is the Civil War. From the Battle of the Baptist Church, Waterford News, and more- join us on a tour of the village to learn what life was like here during those four bloody years and beyond. On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. Tickets are $20, and can be purchased either in advance at this link or on the day of the event. Space is limited.

Waterford Uncovered: How We Discover the Town's Past and How You Can Research Your House's History
2026-05-30 15:30 - 16:45 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Waterford Uncovered: How We Discover the Town’s Past and How You Can Research Your House’s History
Join historical consultant Debbie Robison for an exploration of how Waterford’s captivating past is discovered through fascinating local case studies, and walk away with the exact tools and investigative techniques needed to research your own property!
About the Speaker: Debbie Robison is a preservation consultant who manages the historic preservation & restoration program for an architectural and engineering firm located in Herndon. She served on the Fairfax County History Commission for ten years, including three years as chairman. She has written numerous articles about general aspects of northern Virginia’s past and the history of specific sites. To promote preservation and facilitate local history education, she hosts a history website Northern Virginia History Notes.
Date: Saturday, May 30th
Time: 3:30pm-4:45pm
Cost: Free! This talk is part of the Waterford Open House weekend, explore more of Waterford’s history and preservation prior to this talk- or come back on Sunday!
RSVP: RSVPs are not required, but encouraged. You can RSVP prior to the event at this link.
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This program is part of the Waterford Open House Preservation Academy talk series, and is supported by a grant from the Van Huyck Chockley Family Foundation.

Uprooting the Invaders: Managing Invasive Species to Restore a Healthy Environment
2026-05-31 12:00 - 13:45 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Uprooting the Invaders: Managing Invasive Plants to Restore a Healthy Environment
Invasive plants may look harmless, but these unassuming invaders cause harm to the environment, the economy, and the health of humans and our wildlife neighbors. Taking small actions to protect our native environment today will lay the foundation for a healthy habitat enjoyed by many more generations to come.
Join Leah Sattler, Invasive Plant Species Management Program Administrator for the Loudoun Soil & Water Conservation District, for a talk that will explore the impacts of invasive plants, what can be done to preserve native habitat, and opportunities for assistance and collaboration.
Date: Sunday, May 31st
Time: 12:30pm-1:45pm
Location: Waterford Old School (40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA)
Cost: Free! This talk is also part of the Waterford Open House weekend, explore more of Waterford’s history and preservation after this event!
RSVP: RSVPs are not required, but encouraged. You can RSVP prior to the event at this link.
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This program is part of the Waterford Open House Preservation Academy talk series, and is supported by a grant from the Van Huyck Chockley Family Foundation.

Historic Village Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-31 12:30 - 14:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before or after your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. You can register ahead of time at this link, or on the day of the event. Space is limited.
