Celebrate Women's History

Fairfax County is home to a multitude of sites and stories that celebrate the contributions of women to the United States. One of the most significant moments in women's rights in our country was the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution which secured women the right to vote. Now is the perfect time to reflect on all that women have achieved here in the United States - and to celebrate their contributions to society as a whole.  The struggle to gain equal rights was fought by many brave women whose names you might recognize, and some that you won't.  We want you to explore the many sites in the region that tell their story, and in doing so, gain a new appreciation for what they achieved.  We look forward to you visiting, so plan your stay today.

Women Making History In #FXVA

 

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Explore These Sites

Herstory Lucy Burns Museum headerThe Lucy Burns Museum at the Workhouse Arts Center

Located on the grounds of the Workhouse Arts Center, the Lucy Burns Museum focuses on the efforts of the courageous "Silent Sentinels" imprisoned at the Workhouse a century ago for demanding the right to vote in a fierce fight for equality. The Museum also tells the story of 91 years of prison history.

Visit The Lucy Burns Museum

Herstory Sully Historic Site headerSully Historic Site

The Sully Plantation served as part of the Underground Railroad, along which Harriet Tubman and other "conductors" helped thousands of enslaved people to freedom.  Also learn about how, during the Civil War, the women of Sully worked and struggled to maintain the site while the men were gone.

Visit Sully Historic Site

Herstory Turning Point Suffragist Memorial headerMemorial dedicated to America's women suffragists

The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial honors the millions of women who fought for over seven decades to win the right to vote. The memorial is located on the grounds of Occoquan Regional Park and tells the story of the women's suffrage movement in America. Don't miss your chance to pose in front of the actual White House gates from 1917!

Visit The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial

Herstory George Washington's Mount Vernon headerMount Vernon by Candlelight

Learn the story of Ann Pamela Cunningham, the founder of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association which was responsible for saving Washington's historic home and became one of the earliest preservation organizations in the United States. You'll also discover insights of the surprising life of Martha Washington.

Visit Mount Vernon

Herstory Mason Neck headerMason Neck

Elizabeth Hartwell saw the potential of Mason Neck as a refuge for bald eagles and worked tirelessly to save the area from developers. Without her efforts this piece of natural wonder in Northern Virginia would have been lost. Now, numerous outdoor activities are found at this peaceful escape from daily life in D.C.

Visit Mason Neck

Herstory Wolf Trap headerWolf Trap - Spring Landing Page Header

Catherine Filene Shouse - long an advocate for women's careers and education as well - donated her personal property to enable the creation of Wolf Trap - the only national park dedicated to the performing arts.  Wolf Trap also hosts inspiring female artists throughout the year for you to celebrate and enjoy.

Visit Wolf Trap

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