Leesburg, VA – Ever wonder what Leesburg looked like before the American Revolution? Thanks to a new digital tool from Thomas Balch Library, you can now take a step back in time and explore the town as it was in the 1700s.
Using GIS technology, the self-guided walking tour overlays a revised 1759 map of Leesburg, showing its original subdivision into 70 lots with three north-south streets and four east-west streets. Stops along the tour highlight historic landmarks, including the Donaldson Silversmith Cabin, the William Baker House, and the crossroads of Loudoun and South King Street, which remains a vital part of downtown today.
The tour concludes at the Loudoun County Courthouse, home to the Historic Court Records Division, where visitors can view John Hough’s original map.
“This story map is a great tool for anyone curious about what Leesburg was like in the 18th century,” said Library Director Laura Christiansen. “It showcases buildings and structures from that era, some of which are still in use, while providing insight into everyday life before the American Revolution.”
The walking tour is accessible online at Explore 18th Century Leesburg: A Self-Guided Walking Tour. For more information, contact Thomas Balch Library at 703-737-7195.
