Fredericksburg, Virginia

Fredericksburg is America’s matchless treasury of the spoils of war and peace. The town was founded among low rolling hills by the tidewaters of the Rappahannock River in 1728 as a river port for oceangoing ships. Trade flourished. George Washington grew up on a farm across the river, and was heavily involved with family here until 1789, when he became president. Peace and prosperity were shattered abruptly in 1862. For two years, this was the most fought-over land in the history of the Western hemisphere. After the Civil War, shattered buildings of the exceptional legacy were skillfully, thoroughly restored.

Today, Fredericksburg is a peerless showcase of more than two centuries of urbane development, and two years of epic savagery. Travelers are inevitably subdued at the battlements, monuments and cemeteries. But, they marvel at the scope and historical integrity of the National Historic District downtown where hundreds of buildings are occupied by charming restaurants and shops featuring local specialties.

For more information, check with the local Chamber of Commerce