Originally inhabited by the Siouan and Iroquoian tribes, Fairfax was established on land granted to Thomas Fairfax, 6th Lord Fairfax of Cameron, by King Charles. Farmers from Virginia’s Tidewater region settled the area in the early 18th century and the town of “Providence” was officially founded in 1805.
Fairfax played a significant role during the Civil War, hosting the first land battle in 1861 and a consequential second battle in 1863 that impacted the outcome at Gettysburg. Officially renamed “Town of Fairfax” in 1859, it was incorporated as a town in 1874 and as a city in 1961. Despite its separation from Fairfax County under Virginia law, it still serves as the county seat. The city was connected to Washington, D.C. by a trolley line in 1904, enhancing its accessibility and prominence.
Gorgeous Architecture
The oldest historical structure in Fairfax is the former Fairfax County Courthouse. Initially established in 1742 near today’s Tysons Corner, it was moved to Alexandria in 1752 due to “Indian hostilities”. The courthouse was relocated again in 1790 to its current location at the intersection of present-day Main Street and Chain Bridge Road, upon the ceding of Alexandria’s land for Washington, DC’s creation.
It witnessed significant Civil War events, including the first Confederate officer casualty, John Quincy Marr. Fairfax Public School, the city’s oldest two-story edifice, built in 1873, has served various purposes, including education and police training, before becoming the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center in 1992. The town hall, built and donated by Joseph Edward Willard in 1900 and 1902 respectively, currently hosts the Huddleston Library and Fairfax Art League.
Economic Growth and Development
Since 2005, Old Town Fairfax has undergone significant redevelopment, introducing a new City of Fairfax Regional Library, over 45,000 square feet of retail and dining space, in excess of 70,000 square feet of office condominiums, and 85 luxury residential units.
In 2009, Forbes Magazine recognized Fairfax as the third best place to live well in the U.S., citing its robust public school system, high median salary, and a prevalence of sole proprietors that places it in the nation’s top 1%. Forbes noted that such attributes are crucial during a recession, as cities with supportive environments for start-ups and appealing amenities are better equipped to bounce back from economic downturns.
Catch an Annual Event in Fairfax
If you are visiting or live here year-round, you’ll enjoy Fairfax’s enjoyable climate and activities including:
- Independence Day Celebration Parade and Evening Show
- The Holiday Craft Show
- The annual Chocolate Lover’s Festival
- Fall for the Book Festival
- Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts
- Fall Festival
- Festival of Lights & Carols
- Fairfax Civil War Day
- National Trails Day
- Irish Festival
Local Politics and Government
As a standalone city in Virginia, rather than a town incorporated within a county, Fairfax’s governing power originates from the Virginia General Assembly. To alter the city government’s power and structure, a request must be made to the General Assembly for a charter amendment. The current charter was issued in 1966. There exists an exclave of Fairfax County within the boundaries of the City of Fairfax.
Sponsored by the team of professionals at Trusted Touch Healthcare
Positioned in Northern Virginia, Fairfax is a city offering a wealth of attractions. Whether you’re planning to enjoy a live performance, visit a local museum, or embark on a tour of Washington, DC, Fairfax deserves a spot on your travel plan.
For individuals seeking a private duty nurse, Trusted Touch Healthcare is a go-to option in Fairfax. Offering a comprehensive range of home care solutions for you or your elderly loved ones, they are equipped with an expert team of nurses and caregivers. They are dedicated to delivering the essential care that seniors require. Trusted Touch Healthcare stands as a reliable and dependable institution in the heart of Fairfax, VA.
