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The Friends of Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, Inc. extend a cordial invitation to citizens of Prince William County to attend our 7th Annual Open Courthouse on Saturday, December 11, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The 19th century county seat is located along a historic Virginia Byway at 12239 Bristow Road, in the historic town of Brentsville. “Our holiday reception this year is notable because it will be the last ‘pre-restoration’ celebration in the courthouse,” said Gary Moody, Chairman of the Friends. “Visitors to the site will encounter exposed ceiling beams, patches of original brick under several layers of interior plaster and a little construction dust.”

Although the Courthouse isn’t fully restored, the community donates holiday decorations each year to spruce up the place. Volunteers from the Friends of Brentsville gather before the event to coordinate the holiday dressing-up of the courthouse. In addition, members of the group provide finger foods, holiday cookies and punch for the reception. “Once our decorations are complete, the place just glows with holiday cheer,” said Pam Sackett, a member of the Friends. “Traditional community holiday celebrations in Brentsville have been documented back to the turn of the 20th century. Citizens gathered on the public lot to participate in tree lightings or to watch programs put on by students in the one room schoolhouse.” For the past six years, Santa has arrived to the delight of small children who are welcomed to attend our event. “We anticipate a visit again this year,” Sackett said.

The Friends of Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre also sell tree ornaments, sweatshirts and prints of the courthouse, unique ideas to complete your holiday gift list. “Families have traditionally gathered at the courthouse to catch up with each other,” continued Mr. Moody. “This will be a great time for families new to Prince William County to discover some of our local history that is literally being preserved before your eyes.” This holiday reception is free to the public. For additional information, please call 703-792-6191.