Some time ago I spent Halloween in historic Occoquan, Virginia – the tiny Virginia hamlet “at the end of the water”. It was perfect timing — not only did I get to see the town decked out in all of its Fall finery, but I was there for the Harvest Festival, in which children (and dogs!) paraded down the street in a variety of adorable costumes.
Occoquan’s Exciting Past
This little town has quite a history. Located in Prince William County, Occoquan has been an important center of commerce, culture, and community for over three centuries. Founded in 1734, it was originally a trading post and named after the Dogue Indian word meaning “at the end of the water.” The picturesque town does indeed hug the peaceful Occoquan River, and despite the cliché, if ever a town could be called ‘quaint’, this is it.
The town became a thriving mill town in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the late 19th century, it experienced a period of growth and prosperity as a result of its location on the Occoquan River and its proximity to Washington, D.C. During this time, many of the town’s most distinctive and beautiful buildings were constructed, including Victorian homes, commercial buildings, and public buildings.
One of the most notable sites in the town is the historic Occoquan Mill, which was built in the early 19th century. The mill is a testament to the town’s industrial heritage and is a popular destination for visitors who are interested in history, architecture, and the arts.
The town is known for the mail stage route that ran through the town as early as 1805, the Post Office being the main delivery point for letters and packages between the North and South.
Another important landmark is the town’s historic commercial district, which is home to a number of charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, which I was exploring on that Halloween Day I visited. Mom’s Apple Pie Company, for example, is said to have pies that could have come straight out of your kitchen oven. I hear their Virginia Blackberry Crumb pie is scrumptious.
The town is well-known for its artisan community and its vibrant arts scene, which attracts visitors from around the region and beyond.
Ghostly Inhabitants
A fire in 1916 destroyed much of the town, and it was hit again in 1972 by Hurricane Agnes. The residents and merchants restored the historic buildings, however, and many are believed to have ghosts!
You can learn all about these feisty spirits by taking a historic Occoquan Ghost Tour, which lasts about an hour and is a lot of fun. Or do it yourself by reading about the buildings’ history and hauntings and then exploring on your own.
An outdoor haven
In addition to its rich history, the town is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and the Occoquan River, there are opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and bird-watching. Whether you prefer a peaceful hike in the woods or a day on the water, the town has something for everyone.
When in this part of Virginia, nature lovers should allow time to hike the quiet trails of Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. I did it early in the morning. It was a lovely, peaceful escape — “an oasis in an urban setting,” as they say.
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a quaint and charming place to visit, Occoquan should be on your list.
Books to read before you visit:
A Guide to the Historic Sites of Prince William County, by Ann Davis – This book is a comprehensive guide to the historic sites of Prince William County, including the town of Occoquan. It covers a range of sites, from colonial homes and plantations to Civil War battlefields.
Ghosts of Prince William County, by Linda Reno and Michelle Lyon – This book provides a glimpse into the supernatural side of Prince William County, including the town of Occoquan. It features stories of ghostly sightings and haunted locations, as well as historical background on the sites and their legends.
Occoquan: A Short History, by Peggy Fox – This book provides a concise history of the town of Occoquan, including its founding as a mill town and its growth over the years.
To learn more about Occoquan visit Prince William County’s website or call 800-432-1792.
