John Marshall Birthplace Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Marshall Birthplace Park |
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Park entrance
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| Location | Fauquier county, Virginia, USA |
| Nearest city | Midland, Virginia |
| Area | 6 acres (2.4 ha) |
| Created | June 8, 1978 |
| Operated by | Fauquier County Parks and Recreation |
| Open | daily from dawn to dusk |
| Hiking trails | 1 |
| Parking | 4 spaces + 1 handicapped |
John Marshall Birthplace Park is a small park in Fauquier County, Virginia. It is found in the historic Germantown area. This park lets visitors see a special monument. The monument is located near where John Marshall was born. John Marshall was a very important person in American history. He became the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Contents
What Can You See at the Park?
The park has a parking area and places for picnics. These are located right off Germantown Road in Midland, Virginia. There is also a walking trail. This trail leads to the birthplace monument. Next to the monument, you'll find a picnic shelter.
Near the park entrance, there are signs. These signs tell you about John Marshall's life. They help you learn about his important role in shaping the United States.
Exploring the Walking Trail
The walking trail is about half a mile long. It follows a small stream. The trail takes you to the monument. This monument is near the spot where John Marshall's family home once stood.
The Story of John Marshall's Birthplace
Thomas Marshall, John Marshall's father, moved to Germantown in 1754. He came with his new wife. John Marshall was born the next year, in 1755. Their home was a sturdy, one-and-a-half-story building. It was not a simple log cabin.
In 1902, a special marker was placed at the home site. It was put there by a group of law students. This group was called the Marshall chapter of the Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity. They were from George Washington University. Later, in 1928, a larger monument was built around this marker.
When Was the Park Created?
John Marshall Birthplace Park was the very first public park in Fauquier County. It covers about 6 acres. The park officially opened on June 8, 1978.
The plaque on the monument says, "Near this spot on September 4, 1755, was born John Marshall." For a long time, people weren't completely sure about the exact spot of the house. This was because the location was based on old stories.
Finding the Exact Location
In 2005, experts from the College of William and Mary did some research. They looked for clues at the site. They found old household items from the 1700s. These findings helped prove that the site is very likely where the Marshall family lived. It is believed to be where John Marshall was born.
Wildlife and Nature at the Park
The trail leading to the monument is part of Virginia's birding and wildlife trail system. This means it's a great place to see animals.
Butterflies and Birds You Might See
The park is known for its beautiful butterflies. You might spot the tawny emperor or the Eastern tiger swallowtail. Many different birds also live here. You can see both birds that live here all year and those that migrate. Look for them along the trail and in the nearby fields.
