Historic Marker Dedication Ceremony Honors Battle of Lewinsville in McLean

A new Civil War Trails marker was officially dedicated in Lewinsville Park Sunday afternoon.

The marker commemorates the Battle of Lewinsville, fought on the morning of Sept. 11, 1861. Three Union soldiers were killed in the battle and four were taken prisoner. The Confederates lost no soldiers.

Carole Herrick, chairman of McLean and Great Falls Celebrate Virginia, opened the ceremony with a brief historical synopsis of the battle.

“Colonel J.E.B. Stuart was promoted to General because of the Battle of Lewinsville,” Herrick said. “There were other things that happened at Lewinsville, but this [the Battle of Lewinsville] was the main event.”

The dedication of the marker was followed by an a cappella performance of “Battle Hymn of the Republic” performed by Virginia Rita and John Holley.

Guests, including local residents and history fans, were invited to partake in discussion and refreshments after the ceremony.

“I’ve been a resident here since 1978. My son and I have a real interest in [Metropolitan] history, especially Civil War,” said Brian Higgins of Mayflower Drive.

The Battle of Lewinsville marker can be found next to the Lewinsville Park parking lot, just before the Mark Bleiweis Memorial Sportsmanship Baseball Field. 

The Battle of Lewinsville marker is the first of nine signs in Fairfax County under the direction of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to be dedicated.