Ready to uncover a hidden chapter of Loudoun County’s history? Right here stands Bazil Newman Riverfront Park. It is more than just a scenic spot. This park tells the story of a remarkable man. Bazil Newman Riverfront Park honors a Black entrepreneur who thrived against the odds.
Bazil Newman was born in November 1779. His life was not easy. He was a free Black man in a slave state. Despite discrimination, Newman became a successful businessman. He owned farmland where Goose Creek meets the Potomac. Today, much of his land is part of River Creek. This park, once Elizabeth Mills Riverfront Park, now bears his name.
Newman operated a ferry service here in the early 1800s. He was known as a skilled boatsman. A warehouse was built on his land. It was used for shipping goods. Newman eventually bought the warehouse himself. He advertised his services. He promised careful attention to all merchandise.
Newman’s story is intertwined with the Underground Railroad. As a boatman, he knew the Potomac River intimately. Evidence suggests he helped enslaved people escape to freedom. One account mentions a ferryman aiding fugitives. This ferryman may have been Newman himself. He risked his own freedom to help others.
The park also features the historic Elizabeth Mills canal lock system. This canal allowed boats to navigate Goose Creek. It connected to the Potomac River. Today, you can still see remnants of this canal. They stand as a testament to the area’s rich history.
In 2022, Loudoun County renamed the park in Newman’s honor. This change acknowledges his contributions. It also recognizes the importance of Black history. A supervisor noted that this history was not taught in schools. The renaming was a learning opportunity for many.
Bazil Newman’s legacy lives on. He left a farm to Cornelia E. Harris. She lived with him for sixteen years. He called her a faithful companion. His gravesite is located on a hillside near Goose Creek. It is surrounded by the River Creek Golf Course.
As you explore Bazil Newman Riverfront Park, remember his story. He was a free Black man. He was an entrepreneur. He was a possible Underground Railroad collaborator. He left an enduring mark on Loudoun County. The park offers a chance to reflect. Consider the challenges he faced. Appreciate his resilience. This park is a tribute to Bazil Newman’s extraordinary life. It invites us to learn from the past. It inspires us to build a more just future.