Christmas Civil War Sunday at Historic Brentsville

Feel free to dress in Civil War or Victorian attire and join costumed interpreters on Sunday, December 8th at 11:00 AM to celebrate a Victorian-era Anglican Service of Nine Lessons and Carols in the historic Union Church at Brentville Courthouse Historic Centre on VA 619 in Bristow.

The service incorporates nine readings from scripture with the singing of some of the most beloved Christmas carols of all time, accompanied by an antique “traveling” foot pump organ from the period.

After the Lessons and Carols service, continue the Victorian holiday spirit down the path at the historic Brentsville Courthouse from noon to 3:00 PM.

In December of 1862, artist Thomas Nast made one of the first known illustrations of Santa Claus.  Santa was shown giving gifts to soldiers in the field at Fredericksburg, Va. during the American Civil War. 

This year, Santa will dust off that old suit he wore back then and make an appearance at Brentsville.  Guests can also make old fashioned holiday decorations and Pomander Balls with citrus fruit and cloves to take home for decorating their trees or sharing as gifts.

Admission is free. Photos with Santa for a small fee. For details, call 703-792-5618.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre is located at 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow, VA 20136. Website: http://www.pwcgov.org/brentsville