Gum Springs, Virginia facts for kids
Gum Springs is a special community in Fairfax County, Virginia. It's located near Hybla Valley along a road called Route 1. This community is the oldest African American settlement in Fairfax County. It was started in 1833 by a man named West Ford. He was a freedman, meaning he was once enslaved but gained his freedom. A special sign, called a historical marker, was put up in 1991 to remember Gum Springs' important history.
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History
How Gum Springs Began
Gum Springs was founded in 1833 by West Ford. He was a freed slave and a very skilled carpenter. West Ford also managed things at George Washington's home, Mount Vernon. He started this 214-acre farming community using money from land he received. This land came from Hannah Washington, who was related to George Washington. By 1866, West Ford was one of the wealthiest free Black farmers in Fairfax County. His farm became the heart of the African American community in the 1800s.
Gum Springs School
After the Civil War ended, a school was built in Gum Springs. This helped children in the community get an education.
Bethlehem Baptist Church
The Bethlehem Baptist Church was started in 1863. Churches were very important places for community life and support.
Odd Fellows Hall
The Pride of Fairfax Lodge #298 building is a historic place in Gum Springs. It was once known as the Mount Vernon Enterprise Lodge No. 3488. This building is listed on the Fairfax County Inventory of Historic Sites. It was also added to the Virginia Landmarks Register in 2021. In 2022, it was recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
Joint Stock Club
In 1890, five men created the Joint Stock Club. This club helped African Americans buy land safely. They worked together to buy, sell, and divide land. They sold it to other African Americans at a fair price of $30 per acre. This made it easier for people to own their own property.
Gum Springs Historical Society and Museum
The Gum Springs Historical Society and Museum works to keep the history of Gum Springs alive. They share information about the community's journey. They tell stories of how the community worked hard to build a strong African American home. A historical marker is located where Richmond Highway and Fordson Road meet.
Notable People
- West Ford
- Saunders B. Moon
- Annie M. (Dandridge) Smith
- Reverend Samuel K. Taylor
