Since its founding in 1664, Stafford has been an appealing haven for newcomers. One of Virginia's best-kept secrets, Stafford County has maintained a strong connection with its rich tradition by remaining at the periphery of the rapid urbanization to the north. Today, Stafford offers residents the advantages of suburban living at a more relaxed pace.
Proximity to the metropolitan areas of Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA provides access for residents to cosmopolitan settings, while maintaining an affordable and secure environment. Area attractions are plentiful and include compelling historical sites such as George Washington's boyhood home site at Ferry Farm: Chatham Manor, the Union Headquarters during the Battle of Fredericksburg: and Belmont, the 18th century home of American artist, Gari Melchers.
Recreational opportunities abound in more than 1,000 acres of county, regional, state, and national parks. Stafford is also home to many businesses including some in the Fortune 500. In addition, a new regional airport provides new opportunities for many businesses. All of these characteristics enhance the quality of life in the community and make Stafford a gateway to the 21st century.
By the early 1700s, Stafford prospered with a growth of farms, small plantations, gristmills and sawmills. Mining and quarrying became important industries. It was the iron industry that attracted Augustine Washington, with his young son, George, to Ferry Farm. Iron works furnished arms for the American Revolution. Aquia sandstone, quarried in abundance on Government Island in northern Stafford, provided stone for the White House and U.S. Capitol.
Stafford saw little action during the American Revolution and the War of 1812. With the coming of the Richmond, Fredericksburg and the Potomac Railroad to Aquia Creek in 1842, the county became vulnerable to troop movements during the Civil War. Although Stafford saw no major battles, more than 100,000 troops occupied the area for several years, stripping the county of its livelihood, farmland and vegetation. Families gave up churches and private homes to be used as hospitals.
Prosperity did not return until World War I when the U.S. Marine Corps came to Quantico. At that time, the county was primarily agricultural, except for fishing industries situated along the Potomac River. In World War II, the expansion of Quantico created new employment opportunities. In the early 1960s, the county's population began to increase with the completion of Interstate 95.
The new highway allowed easy access to Washington, D.C., which lies approximately 40 miles to the north, and the city of Richmond, approximately 60 miles to the south.
Stafford County continues to be one of the fastest growing communities in Virginia. The population topped 100,000 in 2003. Although Stafford County has encouraged industry growth, it has managed to maintain a wonderful atmosphere of suburban living at a relaxed pace.
The mission of Stafford County Public Schools is to provide educational excellence through programs and activities that meet the needs of all students. In the last sixteen years, the citizens of Stafford County have supported the construction of seven elementary schools, four middle schools, two high schools, and additions and renovations to fifteen schools. Students score above the state and national averages on standardized tests. More than 79% of graduates plan to continue their education at college or trade or technical school.
The Average List Price for a home is approximately $383,757
The Average Sold Price is approxinately $373,743
The Average NET SOLD PRICE is approximately $366,273 after seller subsidies.
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