Celebrating Black History Month in Prince William, Virginia

February is Black History Month! It's a time to reflect, learn, and honor the people and stories that have shaped our community, our country, and our shared history. In Prince William,Virginia, rich African American history reaches back generations, and the legacy of Black residents continues to influence the culture, creativity, and identity of our region. 

In addition to a trip to Washington D.C's iconic monuments and museums, get outside the city to learn and celebrate Black History Month in Prince William, Virginia. 

African American History Trail

One of the best ways to dive into Black history in Prince William, Virginia is by visiting the African American History Trail. This unique, living history experience highlights more than 20 historical sites that tell the story of African American pioneers, community builders, educators, and families whose contributions still resonate today. You can journey through towns, churches, schools, and neighborhoods to learn about resilience, hope, and community strength.

Some highlights along the trail include sites like First Mt. Zion Baptist Church, organized soon after the Civil War, and other historic locations where African Americans built schools, churches, and communities during Reconstruction and beyond.

Did you know that the trail is also accessible via phone tour? When you get there, dial the number on a trail sign to listen to narrated stories about each stop!

Black History Month isn't just about celebrating the past, it's also about celebrating cultural traditions and community today! Prince William's vibrant food scene highlights our Black-owned eateries and food businesses that offer delicious ways to connect with local culture and community values.

From traditional dishes all the way to some of the best BBQ you'll ever eat, our Black community does not play around when it comes to food. You can taste the love in every bite! 

• Blue Southern BBQ is a Woodbridge-based catering company that proudly serves the Washington DC metro area. Executive Chef “Big Dave” Galloway works to show customers that barbecue is more than just food; it’s a way to bring family and friends together. Southern BBQ has several different package options to meet your event needs, and they are willing to create a custom package just for you. With a variety of smoked meats and sides, there’s something for everyone to try. Blue Southern BBQ just opened a new location at Epiq Food Hall for guests to enjoy the same popular dishes without having to have them catered.
• Jirani Coffee House has served Prince William in Manassas since 2015 and is a popular spot for locals. Jirani is the Swahili word for “neighbor” and is a value of the coffee shop that focuses on community and culture around the world. Jirani is a home for all people and provides guests with ethically sourced coffee, tea, breakfast foods, sandwiches, and more. The shop also offers events throughout the month and a full schedule can be found on their website.
• Kay’s Citrine Soul Food is a popular Dumfries food truck serving classic soul food dishes such as fried catfish, fried shrimp, and chicken wings. They have plenty of tasty sides and desserts to complete your meal including macaroni and cheese, candied yams, banana pudding, and a selection of individually packaged cakes. Kay’s provides customers with good-sized portions at an affordable price, and the food truck can typically be found parked in the Dumfries Commuter lot. Visit their website for more information on where you can find them.
• Culture Cup opened in Gainesville in September of 2023 by owner Nikki Brown. The Culture Cup is amazing coffee. But, more importantly, it is the story of a nation. It is love. It is a community. Nikki's goal is to welcome all to the honoring and celebration of local and national African American art, history, and culture.
• Rumalutions located in Manassas offers sweet treats that you can't stop craving. From their original rum cakes, to cookies, to ice cream, and so much more, you will be guaranteed to leave with a smile. They are also proud to be the home of the first rum cake waffle, that you don't want to miss out on! 

This cemetery was established in the 19th century for the local African American community. In 2009, archaeology was conducted to delineate the cemetery, locating fieldstones (potential burial markers) and grave shafts indicating burials. Prince William County Public Schools gave the Prince William County NAACP entry rights to the cemetery for purpose of restoring, landscaping, and maintaining the cemetery.

In June 2018, members of the community established the non-profit organization "Friends of the Dumfries Slave Cemetery". The cemetery is located behind the Dumfries Elementary School and adjacent to the Dumfries Public Cemetery. Nearby the Weems-Botts Museum interprets the diverse history of the Town of Dumfries.

Spotlight: Shaboozey: A PWC Songwriter Making Waves

Black History Month is also a time to honor those writing the next chapter of cultural influence. One of Prince William Virginia's own stars rising on the world stage is Shaboozey (born Collins Obinna Chibueze), a Woodbridge native who’s reshaping the sound of country and Americana music.

Blending his Nigerian heritage with the rhythms of country, hip-hop, and blues, Shaboozey has rapidly risen in the music world. He’s featured prominently on Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER album, charted on the Billboard Hot 100, and continues to expand what modern country and Americana can sound like all while proudly representing his roots in Virginia.

His music and success highlight how cultural fusion can create powerful art that resonates across genres and how one local voice can echo on a global stage. As Shaboozey continues to blaze trails, he’s an inspiring example of the creativity and diversity that Black artists bring to American music culture.

• Diamonds & Pearls is a welcoming bridal shop offering private bridal appointments with a personal consultant to guide you through their selection of wedding dresses. The selection includes dresses from six different designers with every style imaginable. The business also offers gown preservation, alterations, and custom bouquets created by a team of floral artists. Take the hassle out of wedding dress shopping and book an appointment with Diamonds & Pearls today.

• Five14 is a premier event venue and art gallery in the Dumfries area that provides guests with a fun and safe space to relax and socialize. They host plenty of affordable events throughout the month including open mic nights, yoga, art shows, soap making, and more. Their most popular event is the 2.5-hour guided paint class accompanied by appetizers, desserts, snacks, and a drink selection. Five14 also offers event space for private parties for up to 150 people and can accommodate a wide range of events.

• Debbie Church began selling cupcakes in Northern Virginia when she found herself out of work in 2012. Since then she has founded Delicate Creations which has been featured on Food Network’s cake wars. Her delectable cakes have become very popular, and the business has a pickup location in Woodbridge and a second location in Atlanta, Georgia. Delicate Creations is a custom cake business, and Debbie is able to cater to any type of themed party or event. She has an extensive gallery on her website with some of her extraordinary creations for inspiration.

• The Honee Pot is a boutique spa, located in Woodbridge, that offers visitors a variety of individualized skin and beauty services. They provide a high level of attention to detail and personalized services to each visitor. The Honee Pot is committed to helping you look and feel your best whether that’s with a facial, hair removal, body treatment, or permanent cosmetic service. Their popular dermaplaning facials are designed to leave you with a confidence boost and a warm “honee glow” that leaves clients coming back for more.

Black history is woven into every corner of Prince William Virginia. This month, take the opportunity to explore that history, honor the voices that shaped it, and celebrate the contributions that continue to enrich our community.