Gum Springs is the oldest African American community in Fairfax County, and the historical information was posted on two different historical marker signs posted there until cars came flying off Richmond Highway and took out both signs, years apart. On April 21, local officials and Gum Springs residents unveiled another historic sign at the intersection of Fordson Road and Richmond Highway that once again marks this historical community as a part of Mount Vernon’s history.
The new historical sign at Gum Springs replaces two signs that were hit by cars in previous years
According to The Connection Newspapers, "The new sign is on a hill, above the roadway and hopefully out of danger. “It would take a Lamborghini going 100 miles per hour to knock that down,” joked Del. Paul Krizek (D-44th) who was among the local officials at the dedication. Krizek reached out to Capital One earlier about replacing the sign and got a donation to cover the costs. Jonathan Griffith, the Managing Director at the Capital One Center said a contribution like the sign falls in line with their corporate values of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. “It made natural sense to help out,” said Griffith."
As per The Connection Newspapers, "The crowd at the roadside dedication included Queenie Cox, president of the Gum Springs civic association; Ron Chase, Founding Director, Gum Springs Museum; Reverend Charles Hall, Pastor, St. John Baptist Church; Jeff McKay, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors; Dan Storck, Mount Vernon District Supervisor; Jonathan Griffith, Managing Director, Capital One Center; and Rodney Lusk, Lee District Supervisor; as well as several Gum Springs residents."
Maryam N. is a Senior Writer at Nesbitt Realty. She is an expert on Fairfax County. Maryam has also worked previously as a geologist. She is a foodie and enjoys cooking and exploring new restaurants.
