Leesburg, Virginia was established in 1758 and today serves as the government seat of Loudoun county. What was once as historic colonial town is now a suburban community that has undergone substantial growth in the past three decades. What residents may not know, is that the town has a rich American history.

From a Tavern to a Town

Long before it was established, Leesburg was once occupied by several Native American Tribes. It was not until the late 1730s that the first European settlers landed in the area and started developing the countryside into large farms. The first settlers of the area were immigrants from various backgrounds, making this farming community ethnically and religiously diverse. At the point of two major road crossings, Nicholas Minor opened a tavern, in the community he called “George Town”. This tavern was directly in the center of what is now considered Leesburg. Shortly thereafter, Nicholas Minor became responsible for laying out “George Town” in a traditional American street plan with a grid like design. In 1757 the General Assembly of Virginia selected “George Town” as the location of the Loudoun County courthouse. And finally, on October 12th, 1758, Leesburg was founded by the Virginia General Assembly. Despite what many believe, the town was named after Thomas Lee. Over the next 100 years, the small town continued to grow into a Colonial hub, and reached 1,688 residents in size.

100 years of Wars

During the war of 1812, the town served as a safe place for the United States Government and its historical artifacts, removed them from Washington D.C. for protection from the British Army. Later during the Civil War, the area was the site for several battles including the Battle of Ball’s Bluff and the Battle of Mile Hill. This central role was likely due to the geographic location, just two miles south of the Potomac River. At the time, the Potomac River was the border between the United States and the Confederate States of America. Throughout the civil war, the town was passed back and forth by both the confederate and union armies and by the end of the civil war had changed sides over 100 times, After the Civil War, worn down and tired from changing leadership, the community recovered quickly, thanks to the closeness to Washington.
Additionally, the town became a primary depot for the new railroad that would travel west through the county, stimulating economic growth and tourism from the city to the town.

Post-war Boom to Today

The end of World War II marked a period of serious growth for Leesburg and Loundoun County, with the town experiencing a huge population boom. Despite becoming integrated into the greater Washington area, efforts were made by residents to help retain the historic charm and storied narrative of Leesburg. The central Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Through years of war and growth, Leesburg today still serves as the government seat and is the center of commerce for Loudoun County.

Directions from the Loudon County Courthouse to Lansdowne Dental Care

Looking for some “things to do” ideas if you’re in Leesburg? Here’s some outdoor recreation ideas.