Hidden behind a few trees lies a treasure. This isn’t just any place. This is the Buckland Preservation Society. For years it quietly existed. Few knew of its significance. But within its grounds lies a story spanning centuries. A story waiting to be uncovered.
The Buckland Preservation Society isn’t merely a preservation group. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a community. Founded in 2003 it’s dedicated to the preservation of the town of Buckland. It also works to preserve the legacy of the Manohoac Indian Settlement. This settlement predates European arrival. It thrived along the Susquehanna Plain Path. That path is now known as the Old Carolina Road.
Buckland boasts a rich history. It began long before European settlers arrived. Native American artifacts have been found dating back 8000 years. These artifacts reveal a vibrant culture. A culture that existed long before the arrival of Europeans. The European settlers were drawn to the area for commerce. The waters of the Broad Run offered opportunities for milling. Samuel Love purchased land in 1774. He built Buckland Hall. His sons expanded their father’s operations. They created a vibrant mercantile center. It featured a distillery a tannery another mill and numerous stores.
John Love a son of Samuel played a crucial role. He was not just a businessman. He was a senator a congressman and an attorney. He worked with the inventor Oliver Evans. Together they introduced state-of-the-art mills to Buckland. These mills were incredibly efficient and improved food safety. John Love also founded the Fauquier and Alexandria Turnpike. This turnpike connected Warrenton to Alexandria. It went right through Buckland. It helped the town thrive.
Buckland wasn’t only a center of commerce. It also became a center of social activity. It hosted numerous notable visitors. President James Monroe and the Marquis de Lafayette visited. Andrew Jackson even visited the Robinson Tavern. But Buckland’s prosperity didn’t last forever. The arrival of railroads bypassed Buckland. Other communities flourished. Buckland’s fortunes declined. The Civil War brought further hardship. Buckland found itself caught in the crossfire. Union and Confederate troops clashed. Skirmishes took place near Broad Run. This even influenced the Second Battle of Manassas.
The Buckland Preservation Society rose to the challenge. It actively worked to protect this important piece of American history. They bought properties. They worked with the Federal government to establish easements. This ensured that Buckland’s historical integrity remains intact.
Today the Buckland Preservation Society continues its mission. It plans to turn Buckland into a tourist destination. It aims to restore the landscape. It hopes to involve the public in this crucial work. Buckland’s story is far from over. It’s a story of resilience innovation and preservation. It’s a story that deserves to be told and remembered for generations to come. This little town has a significant place in American history. The Buckland Preservation Society ensures its story will live on.