Colonial Leesburg, Inc. Collection ca. 1949-1954

Access and use

Location of collection:
Thomas Balch Library
Thomas Balch Library
208 West Market Street
Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Alexandra S. Gressitt
Phone: (703) 737-7195
Fax: (703) 737-7195

Summary

Creator:
Unknown, B. Powell Harrison
Abstract:
Colonial Leesburg, Inc. Collection documents the establishment and accomplishments of Colonial Leesburg, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded to preserve Leesburg's colonial-style buildings.
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

The Colonial Leesburg, Inc. Collection documents the establishment and accomplishments of Colonial Leesburg, Inc., a nonprofit organization founded to preserve Leesburg's colonial-style buildings. Elements of the collection (pamphlets, blueprints, press releases, and newspaper clippings) are in overall good condition but should be handled carefully.

The first item in the collection is a pamphlet entitled "Opportunity Leesburg and You." It emphasizes Leesburg's major sites, including Washington's Headquarters and the Janney House, and states that Colonial Leesburg seeks to "encourage and facilitate" building restoration, and to generate information about Leesburg's history and heritage throughout the community. The collection contains an annual report from November 1950, describing the first fiscal year as "successful" and listing architectural plans, consultations, and projects. Architectural notes and sketches for downtown Leesburg's renovation are also included. "Suggested Outline: Leesburg Open House" proposes plans for an organizational event that hopes to draw at least a thousand guests. Reports from various meetings, newspaper clippings discussing the organization's goals, and a press release documenting the success of the Open House are among the succeeding items. A transcript of the "Leesburg" pamphlet, written and distributed by the organization, notes Leesburg landmarks such as the Rust House, the Welbourn House and Garden, the Clerk's Office, and the Tally-Ho Theater. There are also reports from the organization's Sidewalk Committee, which worked with the town to promote the use of brick for sidewalks in the historic parts of Leesburg.

Biographical / historical:

Colonial Leesburg, Inc. was founded in 1949 by B. Powell Harrison, Jr. (25 Aug 1911-1 Nov 2000) to preserve "early American" architecture in businesses in downtown Leesburg. Colonial Leesburg held numerous open houses and gatherings to encourage appreciation of Leesburg's historical landmarks. Much of modern Leesburg, including its brick sidewalks and colonial-style buildings, is a product of this nonprofit corporation's efforts.

Acquisition information:
B. Powell Harrison, Leesburg, VA; unknown
Physical description:
16 folders