History of the Historic Centreville Society and Centreville
The Historic Centreville Society was founded in 1987 as a non-profit incorporated in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its establishment came at a pivotal time when rapid suburban development threatened to erase the physical remnants of Centreville’s past. The society’s mission—to encourage historical research, preserve buildings and sites of historic interest, and promote knowledge of local history—reflects a grassroots effort to safeguard a heritage that dates back to the area’s earliest inhabitants.
Centreville’s history predates the HCS by millennia. Archaeological evidence suggests that Paleo-Indians settled in the region approximately 12,000 years ago, drawn by its high ridge offering scenic views and access to water. By 1792, Centreville was officially chartered as a town, its name reflecting its strategic position at the crossroads of roads connecting Alexandria, Warrenton, and other regional hubs. This location made it a natural travel-way and an inviting settlement spot for merchants, artisans, farmers, and, tragically, enslaved individuals and indentured servants.
The town’s prominence grew during the 19th century, particularly during the Civil War. Centreville’s ridge-top location made it a key military site, with Confederate forces constructing extensive fortifications and camps after clearing acres of woodland. Both Union and Confederate armies occupied the area at different times, leaving behind earthwork defenses and a “Covered Way” still visible today. The war devastated Centreville, disrupting agriculture and commerce and plunging the community into a prolonged recovery period.
Post-war, Centreville evolved from a rural outpost into a farming community by the mid-20th century. The advent of the automobile and the paving of Lee Highway in the early 20th century spurred suburban growth, transforming Centreville into a middle-class commuter hub by the 1930s. This era also saw the rise of affordable “kit homes,” such as the Spindle Sears House—a restored Brentwood model from Sears, Roebuck & Company—highlighting innovative housing solutions during the Depression.
The HCS has played a crucial role in preserving this layered history. One notable achievement was the rescue of the 1737 Willoughby Newton boundary stone, saved from encroaching development through the efforts of resident Mattie Gaskins Brown, the society, and local Boy Scouts. Now on loan at the Sully Government Center, the stone stands as a testament to collaborative preservation. Similarly, the society worked with developers and Fairfax County to protect the 1760 Lane’s Mill ruins, now the county’s first archaeological park. These efforts underscore the HCS’s commitment to tangible historical conservation amid rapid modernization.
The society collaborates closely with its sister organization, the Friends of Historic Centreville (FHC), which focuses on advocacy and hosts the annual Centreville Day festival. Held in Historic Centreville Park, this event—celebrating its 32nd year in 2024—brings the community together to honor its “Revolutionary Roots, Modern Branches,” a theme anticipating the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Through education, advocacy, and public engagement, the HCS ensures that Centreville’s past remains a living part of its identity.
Demographics of Centreville
Understanding the Historic Centreville Society’s work requires context about the community it serves. Centreville, as a census-designated place (CDP) in Fairfax County, has a population that mirrors the diversity and dynamism of Northern Virginia. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 data, Centreville’s population was approximately 71,135, though estimates suggest slight fluctuations by 2025 due to suburban growth patterns.
Centreville is notably diverse. The racial composition includes a significant White population (around 50%), followed by Asian (approximately 30%), Hispanic or Latino (about 13%), and Black or African American (around 7%) residents, with smaller percentages of other groups. This diversity reflects Fairfax County’s status as one of the most multicultural counties in the United States, driven by proximity to Washington, D.C., and an influx of professionals and immigrants.
The median age in Centreville hovers around 36, indicating a relatively young, family-oriented community. Households often consist of married couples (over 55%) with children, supported by a median household income of approximately $115,000—well above the national average. Education levels are high, with over 60% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, a testament to the area’s appeal to skilled workers in tech, government, and related fields.
This demographic profile shapes the HCS’s audience and mission. A well-educated, affluent, and diverse population provides both opportunities and challenges: residents may value history as a cultural asset, but their busy, modern lifestyles could limit engagement. The society’s initiatives, like Centreville Day and walking tours, cater to families and history enthusiasts, bridging generational and cultural gaps to maintain relevance in a forward-looking community.
Real Estate Trends in Centreville
Real estate trends in Centreville reflect its transformation from a rural town to a suburban enclave, a process the HCS indirectly influences by preserving the area’s historical character. Fairfax County’s robust housing market, fueled by its proximity to D.C. and strong job growth, has made Centreville a desirable location for homebuyers.
As of early 2025, the median home price in Centreville is approximately $550,000, though this varies by property type. Single-family homes, which dominate the historic district, often exceed $600,000, while townhouses and condos—popular among younger professionals—range from $350,000 to $500,000. The market has cooled slightly from the pandemic-era peak, with average days on market increasing to about 30-40 days, signaling a shift toward balance between buyers and sellers.
Inventory remains tight, with demand driven by Centreville’s excellent schools (part of the Fairfax County Public Schools system), access to major highways (Routes 28 and 29, I-66), and amenities like parks and shopping centers. Historic Centreville Park and the Centreville Historic District add a unique appeal, offering a blend of charm and convenience that differentiates the area from newer, cookie-cutter suburbs.
The HCS’s preservation efforts enhance real estate value by maintaining the historic district’s integrity. Properties near landmarks like Mount Gilead (built circa 1785) or the Spindle Sears House attract buyers seeking character over mass-produced homes. However, development pressures persist. The society’s success in negotiating with developers, as with Lane’s Mill, suggests a delicate balance: protecting history while accommodating growth. Rising property taxes and maintenance costs for historic homes could challenge owners, potentially pushing some to sell—a trend the HCS might monitor to advocate for preservation incentives.
Rental trends also reflect Centreville’s appeal. The median rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $2,200 monthly, competitive within Fairfax County but high compared to national averages. This rental market caters to transient professionals and families awaiting homeownership, further diversifying the community the HCS engages.
The Broader Impact and Future of the Historic Centreville Society
The Historic Centreville Society stands at the intersection of past and present, serving as a guardian of Centreville’s heritage amid relentless suburban expansion. Its achievements—saving boundary stones, mill ruins, and historic homes—demonstrate a proactive approach to preservation that resonates beyond Fairfax County. By partnering with the FHC, Fairfax County agencies, and local volunteers, the HCS amplifies its impact, ensuring that history informs rather than impedes progress.
Yet challenges loom. Fairfax County’s population is projected to grow, with Centreville absorbing more residents as D.C.’s metro area expands. This growth could strain historic sites, increase development pressure, and shift demographics toward even greater diversity and transience. The HCS must adapt, perhaps by leveraging digital tools (e.g., virtual tours or expanded online archives) to reach a broader audience or advocating for stronger historic preservation policies.
Real estate trends suggest a continued premium on Centreville’s historic charm, but economic factors—rising interest rates, inflation, or housing affordability—could alter demand. The society’s role in educating developers and residents about the value of preservation will be critical to maintaining this balance.
Critically, the HCS must ensure its narrative remains inclusive. Centreville’s history includes enslaved individuals, indentured servants, and diverse settlers whose stories are often underrepresented. Expanding research and programming to highlight these voices could deepen community connection and align with modern values of equity and representation.
Conclusion
The Historic Centreville Society is more than a historical organization; it is a vital thread in the fabric of Centreville, Fairfax County, Virginia. Since 1987, it has preserved a legacy spanning Paleo-Indian settlements, Civil War battles, and suburban rebirth, all while navigating a community of over 70,000 diverse, educated, and affluent residents. Its efforts enhance real estate appeal, foster civic pride, and anchor Centreville’s identity as a place where history and modernity coexist.
As Centreville evolves, the HCS’s mission—to research, preserve, and educate—will remain essential. By embracing innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration, the society can ensure that future generations inherit not just a suburb, but a story worth telling. In a region defined by change, the Historic Centreville Society stands as a steadfast reminder that the past is not a burden, but a foundation.
