Two-time governor of Virginia William Smith was a Fauquier native. His home, Monta Rosa, is on Culpeper Street in Warrenton. During the California Gold Rush Smith went west and capitalized not on digging for gold but providing services and goods to the hopeful miners. Upon his return to Warrenton he constructed what is now known as the California Building from the profits of his adventure.

Fauquier natives fought in many wars - from Presley O’Bannon fighting pirates in the Mediterranean in the early 18th century, the American Revolution, the Civil War, and both World Wars. This exhibit displays artifacts and stories from specific soldiers.

Warrenton Supply

Dr. Anderson’s Dental Office

Madison Barber Shop

Jeffries Drug Store

Ullman Department Store

Artifacts and stories about the men of Fauquier’s Black Horse Troop in the Civil War.

Artifacts from local Indian tribes including stone tools, arrowheads, grindng stone, etc.