The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center offers visitors a glimpse into the region's history and culture. It features a variety of exhibits comprised of furniture, stoneware, photographs, artifacts, weapons, agricultural tools and more. Visitors can bring home souvenirs from the museum gift shop. The facility is also available to host a variety of events, such as weddings and business functions. Visit the website for a preview of the museum's attractions.
This small museum houses and interprets a collection of historical documents and archives on James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. Visitors to the museum, for a small fee, can tour exhibits relating to the life and impact of James Monroe. This museum is built upon the site where James Monroe maintained a law office between the years of 1786 and 1789.
This 18th-century building provides a living representation of colonial medicinal and herbal practices. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop has a selection of the creatures and remedies needed to overcome illnesses in the 1700s, including leeches and crab claws. Visitors may also explore the herb garden in back.
The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Cultural Center offers visitors a glimpse into the region's history and culture. It features a variety of exhibits comprised of furniture, stoneware, photographs, artifacts, weapons, agricultural tools and more. Visitors can bring home souvenirs from the museum gift shop. The facility is also available to host a variety of events, such as weddings and business functions. Visit the website for a preview of the museum's attractions.
Mary Washington House is a historic site offering group tours and educational programs. It was purchased by George Washington in 1772 and was the residence of Mary Ball Washington during her last 17 years. The location features a garden, original 18th century kitchen and a museum store with many gifts, artifacts and decorative items. The site is operated by the Mary Washington Branch of Preservation Virginia.
This historic estate was the final residence of Gari Melchers, an obscure, but decorated, naturalist painter who enjoyed his heyday in the late 19th and early 20th century. This estate, overlooking the Rappahannock River in Falmouth, today hosts a museum covering the history of the estate and displays a gallery of paintings. The property also hosts walking paths.
Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge No. 4 is located in historic downtown on Princess Anne Street. This is one of the most historic lodges dating back to 1816, with recorded members since 1752. "Freemasonry is the oldest fraternal organzition in the world today" and this lodge is considered the "mother lodge of George Washington". Check out the website for monthly meetings and outings.
Rockledge Mansion is a historic national landmark built in 1758. The mansion features a crystal ballroom, a stage, brick patios, fireplaces and antiques. The mansion is available for special event rentals. Catering options are also available.
The Rising Sun Tavern was originally built in the mid-1700s and became a bustling tavern in the late 1700s. Its original owner was Charles Washington, George Washington's brother. These days, the building serves as an interpretation of what a colonial tavern looked like back in the 18th century. Visitors can mingle with "tavern wenches" to a backdrop of colonial antiques, all while learning more about the history of Fredericksburg.
The Central Rappahannock Heritage Center is a community organization dedicated to archiving and preserving the photographs and documents exploring the history of Caroline, Stafford, King George, Spotsylvania counties and Fredericksburg. Visit the website for membership and upcoming event information.
The Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center provides information relating the battle of Fredericksburg. It is situated at the base of Maryes Heights, a site of bloody and fruitless charges against entrenched Confederate troops along the Sunken Road. Inside the Visitor Center you will find a small host of exhibits on the battle, and the impact of the war on the surrounding community. The visitor center also screens a short film about the battle throughout the day.
Ever hear the stories about George Washington cutting down the cherry tree? How about the one about George throwing a quarter across the river? Well, this is where it happened. Ferry Farm is the boyhood home of George Washington. He lived here for 14 years, from ages six through 20. The well-preserved grounds feature a visitors center, archaeology lab, and nature trails. Admission runs $5 for adults and $3 for students.