Park Likely To Be Named For Oldest Small Business In Falls Church

FALLS CHURCH, VA — The Falls Church Planning Commission is set to consider a name for the downtown park honoring the oldest small business in the city.

The name recommendation is on the Planning Commission agenda for Aug. 5. City staff recommended the name "Mr. Brown's Park," recognizing three generations—James, Horace, and Hugh Brown—that have run Brown's Hardware.

The business, located at 100 West Broad Street near the park, was opened in 1883 by James. W. Brown. His grandson, Hugh Brown, died in November 2018 at the age of 92. The store could remain open since Hugh Brown created a trust, the Falls Church News-Press reported.

The name recommendation came after a survey conducted by Council Member Letty Hardi, Economic Development Authority member Erik Pelton, Recreation and Parks Board member Bill Brew, and city staff. Nearly 130 responses came in with overwhelming support for a name honoring Brown's Hardware.

The downtown park has been around since the 1960s but was reintroduced this year after a major renovation. The park features an artificial turf, seating and lighting. It has been used for live music, yoga and children's entertainment as well as by those who dine downtown.

If approved by the Planning Commission, the name recommendation goes to City Council for final action on Sept. 9.