with Jerrilynn Eby MacGregor

This program discusses the early settlement and development of the area that was designated as Stafford County in 1664.  It covers the system of land grants, patents, and headrights as well as the first European families to settle here.  Discusses the early parishes, courthouses, and industries.

Jerrilynn grew up in Stafford on the back of a horse and, as a teenager, became fascinated with the county’s history. Having spent her youth at Aquia Church (1757) and amongst several of the county’s old families, she heard the local oral history and eventually learned that little beyond oral tradition existed in Stafford due to vandalism by Union troops during the Civil War. In 1862 and 1863, the invading soldiers stole or destroyed many of the county’s court records and, as a result, traditional historians largely ignored Stafford and rarely even mentioned it in their books. In time, she began compiling information from the deeds, wills, court records, tax records, and newspapers that did exist, added to that the oral history, and tracked down other sources of information. Nearly forty years later, she is still researching her beloved Stafford County and publishing her studies so others might better appreciate the activities and families that made the county so special. Most of her research focuses on land tracts, mills, and industries, but she’s grateful for any tidbit that will help to develop Stafford’s unique story. She has published ten books about Stafford’s history.

Jerrilynn retired from the Prince William County Public Schools after working for 31 years as a middle school librarian.

Note:  the previously published program for September on Frances Benjamin Johnston with Connie Hilker had to be rescheduled and will be presented in the future.

This presentation will be recorded and posted to Facebook and the Discover Stafford “Past Presentations” portion of the events page.