Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is holding its 25th anniversary with numerous activities and demonstrations planned for Saturday, May 19 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
The event will begin with the dedication of an historic marker by the local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The marker, which will be placed in front of the Walney house, will recognize the age and historic significance of the site.
The Fairfax County Park Authority has owned the land that comprises Ellanor C. Lawrence Park since 1971, when it was deeded by Ellanor’s husband David Lawrence to honor her memory. The site includes the Walney Visitor Center, Cabell’s Mill and Walney Pond. Development of park facilities began in 1980. Today, exhibits and programs educate patrons about the natural history of the park and tell the story of the families and Native Americans that have inhabited the site.
During the anniversary celebration, a Civil War re-enactor in full period costume will bring the site’s history to life and share tales from the park’s past. Visitors can also enjoy a garden tour, watch woodworking and smokehouse demonstrations, and even churn and taste butter the old-fashioned way. Visit out-buildings, the icehouse and the dairy to experience how farmers lived in the 19th century.
Farm animals including goats, cows and chickens will be on display, a visual reminder of the park’s agricultural past. Children will have fun trying to roll hoops and getting their faces painted with festive colors and designs.
For animal lovers, a raptor handler will share native hawks and owls, and reptiles including snakes and turtles will be on display.
Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is located at 5040 Walney Road in Chantilly. Call 703-631-0013 or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl/