Park Authority

Fairfax County, Virginia

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday

703-324-8700
TTY 711

12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035

Jai Cole,
Executive Director

Department Resources


Black History Month

black history month

The Fairfax County Park Authority is committed to sharing stories, artifacts and archives to recognize the contributions, struggle and history of African-Americans in Fairfax County and our parks. Our hope is to not only share these stories and programs, but to encourage conversation and inspire change for the future.

Additional Resources

Interested in doing your own research on African-American history in Fairfax County? Explore these additional resources available through Fairfax County Park Authority or our partners in Fairfax County:

Fairfax County Park Authority

The Park Authority’s Park Authority Archaeology and Collections Branch (ACB) identifies, preserves, and interprets the material culture of Fairfax County to promote shared stewardship of cultural resources, nurture a deeper understanding of the past, and inspire future generations. The County Archaeological Research Team (CART) is the research and outreach arm of the ACB. CART conducts archaeological investigations on parkland throughout the county. Findings from this research can be found on CART’s artiFACTS Blog.

Fairfax County Government Historic Court Records

The Fairfax County Government Historic Court Records office offers a digital guide with links to will books, death records, registration of free African-Americans before the Civil War, and many more resources. These are vital sources for the working historians at the Park Authority:

Fairfax County History Commission

In January 2021, the Fairfax County History Commission began compiling source materials regarding African-American History in Fairfax County. The initial inventory is available on the History Commission website, along with a General Resources Guide and suggested Research Topics. These early draft releases were created for use by students, educators, historians and county residents prior to database release in later 2022. Residents are encouraged to contact their district’s Commissioners with additional information of any site or resource.

Fairfax County Public Library

Fairfax County Public Library’ website offers events and programs this Black History Month to celebrate, honor and educate. They have also curated a Black History Month booklist featuring recently received and newly published titles. FCPL’s Virginia Room also maintains a collection rich in regional history and genealogy, as well as local and state government information and legal resources.

More Links

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