Fairfax County, Virginia Real Estate and Community Information
About Fairfax County
The county's recent growth has in many ways changed the lifestyle of its residents for the better. Today, residents of Fairfax County are provided with one of the highest standards of living in the world. The average median income of Fairfax County residents sits well above the national average, making it one of the highest in the nation. The plentiful jobs and high incomes have drastically increased the tax base, paving the way for one of the best public school systems in the United States.
Fairfax County History
The first European claims to the land that would become Fairfax County took place in 1649. Charles II, King of England, granted all of the land between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers were to be granted to a group of seven English gentlemen. In 1719, the land came to be possessed by the area's namesake, Lord Fairfax. Over the next 20 years there were many attempts to form the land into a county, however, it was not until 1741 that a county was officially created. The next 50 years proved to be a time of substantial growth for the young county. New roads were built to support the bustling area trade of agricultural goods.
During the last half of the 18th century, colonial America became embroiled in the revolutionary war. Two Fairfax county residents, George Washington and George Mason, were leading patriots in the cause for freedom. The two wealthy Fairfax County plantation owners became central figures in the formation of the United States. Subsequent to the birth of a new nation, it seemed as though Fairfax County would continue to prosper. However, early in the 19th century, it became apparent this was not to be so. The first half of the 19th century proved to be difficult for the county. The region's soil was depleted from overplanting and the area's economy suffered.
Fairfax County's history follows a similar path to that of the nation at large.
From the area's exploration by John Smith in the early 1600s to the areas present existence as one of the nation's leading economic hubs, the history of Fairfax County closely reflects the history of the American nation. Stories of the historic county site many important and familiar names and places. Names, such as George Washington, Bull Run, Mount Vernon are littered throughout the long history of the county.
Preserving Fairfax County's History
Today, in Fairfax County you cannot go far without running into some reminder of the county's past. Fairfax County's many historic sites and buildings tell the history of the drama that built a nation. Fairfax County takes great pride in recording, restoring and preserving its long and colorful past. The stories of Fairfax enrich the lives of Fairfax residents and allow residents to remain in touch with their heritage.
Living in Fairfax County
There are many wonderful communities located within Fairfax County. Beautiful and historic communities, such as Alexandria, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Burke, Clifton, Lorton, Centreville, Chantilly Fairfax, Vienna Great Falls, McLean, Herndon, Reston, Mason Neck, Mount Vernon, and Tysons Corner populate the large county with more than a million people. With a landmass of over 400 sq. miles, Fairfax County borders the nation's capital, offering easy access for those commuting to DC for work or recreation.
