Civil War Sites in Fairfax, North Virginia

Some years ago, in a Tyson's Corner gym, I overheard two men debating whether or not Northern Virginia is in the South. Despite its continued urbanization and sprawl, there are overlooked signs of Virginia's Civil War past all within a few miles of Tyson's.

Vienna: Vienna has several prominent Civil War locations. First, off of Old Courthouse road (about 1 mile from the aforementioned gym) is Freedom Hill. This small earthwork served as a Union outpost providing lookouts with an excellent observation position guarding the Chain Bridge Road. Overgrown now, in the 19th Century it provided an unobstructed view into Vienna over the cultivated farmland. Second, on the W&OD trail, just opposite the Vienna Community Center on Park Street, is the site of the small battle known as "the Vienna Affair." This small skirmish is notable because it was the first use of a railroad for military purposes and occurred during a time when Fairfax was essentially a no mans land, changing hands between the Union and the Confederacy. Third, located just off Center Street behind the Vienna VFW post is a fortification known by its type "the Star Fort." This fortification changed hands several times during the war and is an excellent example of a very common 19th Century style military emplacement. The Star Fort guarded the W&OD railroad and overlooked the town and the rail station. Next is the W&OD itself, a useful avenue of approach for Mosby and Union cavalry alike between Fairfax, Vienna and Leesburg. Of note, at Hunter Mill Road and the W&OD, a Union cavalry outpost was emplaced on high ground overlooking the intersection. Finally, on Hunter Mill Road, near the intersection with Route 123, next to the Giant Shopping Center, is a huge oak tree that served as a meeting place and rendezvous spot for Mosby's Rangers.