Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Ferdinando, and the End of the Fairfax Ownership
Ferdinando Fairfax's will reveals his personal convictions, including his belief that slavery was an injustice. Ferdinando bequeathed slaves to family members stipulating they were never to be sold. He insisted on their fair and just treatment and settlements for their freedom.
Ferdinando donated a large portion of the Fairfax family fortune to causes and institutions, such as public libraries and free schools. He served as a civilian volunteer during the four-day Battle of the White House in the War of 1812 and was commended for his bravery. Ferdinando Fairfax died in 1820 and with him died the Fairfax family association with the Belvoir property.
In the 1830s, William Herbert bought the land and in 1841 the property was purchased by Philip Otterback, and became known as Otterback's Woods.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Places. A significant historical year for this entry is 1787.
Location. 38° 40.751′ N, 77° 7.739′ W. Marker is in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, in Fairfax County. Marker can be reached from Forney Loop, on the right when traveling east. Located along the Belvoir and Potomac View Trail, reached from a parking area off Forney Lane, on Fort Belvoir. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Fort Belvoir VA 22060, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Belvoir (a few steps from this marker); The Fairfax Family (within shouting distance of this marker); The Neighborhood (within shouting distance of this marker); The Influence of the Fairfax Family (within shouting distance of this marker); The Army Comes to Belvoir (within shouting distance of this marker); Life at Belvoir (within shouting distance of this marker); Belvoir Grounds and Potomac View Trail (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Gardens and Kitchen at Belvoir (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Fort Belvoir.
More about this marker. The marker is on Fort Belvoir, an active U.S. Army installation. Please check the links below for site access information.
Also see . . . Access to Fort Belvoir. Details procedures for entering the Fort. (Submitted on August 30, 2010, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia.)
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on August 30, 2010, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia. This page has been viewed 735 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on December 16, 2010, by Lee Hattabaugh of Capshaw, Alabama. 2. submitted on August 30, 2010, by Craig Swain of Leesburg, Virginia.