Upper Smith River Water Supply

Upper Smith River Water Supply Municipal Water Report Info

Warrenton originated at the intersection of the Falmouth-Winchester and Alexandria-Culpeper roadways, where a trading post called the Red Store was established. By the Revolutionary War period, a settlement had begun forming, and around 1790 the initial courthouse was constructed, a jail was built, and an academy named after Revolutionary War hero General Joseph Warren was founded. Richard Henry Lee contributed 71 acres of land for the county seat, which was later incorporated as the Town of Warrenton in 1810.

By the 1850s, railroad service reached the town, which featured several churches, thriving mercantile establishments, a weekly newspaper, and a couple of schools. However, for well over a century, the town grew gradually, primarily serving as a trading center for the surrounding rural area and a residence for merchants, county officials, and professionals. It early established a reputation for its healthy climate and exceptional social life.

According to historical accounts, "Large wagons and carts traveled over the mountains from the wealthy counties of Orange, Culpeper, Rappahannock and Loudoun, loaded with wheat, corn and oats; housewives brought their poultry and dried fruit; impressive herds of livestock made their way to this town...For its size (604 residents in 1860), Warrenton was the wealthiest town in the entire South."

During the Civil War, the town was near battle sites and skirmishes where churches and schools were used as hospitals. Often occupied by Federal troops, Warrenton was targeted by raids led by Colonel John S. Mosby, known as the "Gray Ghost," who later resided there and practiced law in the California Building across Court Street. A monument to Mosby stands beside the Old Courthouse, and he is buried in the Warrenton cemetery. Local resident Duvall Goldsmith invented the coffee percolator, and William "Extra Billy" Smith, twice Governor of Virginia, also called Warrenton home.