"There is great comfort in being connected to the history of Purcellville. In learning about its history the past comes to life in the present and anchors us in a larger whole, connecting us to the past, grounding us firmly in the present, giving us a sense of identity and roots, belonging and purpose. It is through organizations like the PPA that allows us to have this connection to our hometown."

Proud Accomplishments of the Purcellville Preservation Association

• The Historic Plaque Program is being developed by the PPA to promote awareness of the older structures in our town as well as promote a sense of pride in the historical aspects of the town. The overall goal is to continue to promote the preservation and rehabilitation of older structures by awarding specially made plaques on homes and buildings. For more information or to apply for a plaque, please contact Chairperson Jackie Garbe at (540) 338-2664.


• The PPA’s first restoration project was the Mahlon-Taylor Springhouse on the east side of town.


• With a special committee "Save the Train Station," along with the Town’s Park and Recreation Advisory Committee, the historic train station, long abandoned at the end of the W&OD Trail, was restored and now serves the Town of Purcellville.


• The Vintage Town & Country Tour is an annual showcase of historic homes and structures around town.


• The PPA 5k has, for close to a decade, has been a fun race through town that the entire family can enjoy in May (the 5k is not taking place in 2008 due to the focus on its Heritage Day festivities in celebration of the town's centennial).


• Plantings throughout town are an on-going beautification effort in Purcellville coordinated by the PPA.


• To hold on to the memories of yesteryear in Purcellville, a special committee compiled recipes and remembrances of days gone by in The Spice of Life Cookbook.


• As cherished mementos, the PPA has provided replicas of historic Purcellville structures for its Christmas Ornament Program. Ornaments are available at The Paint & Paper Place each December.


• In memory of a special friend and preservationist, Bruce Brownell, the PPA organized and helped fund a commemorative Town Clock in front of the Magnolia’s Restaurant.


• An oral history The Stories Behind the Story of Purcellville. A special presentation produced by the Purcellville Preservation Association with townspeople sharing precious legacies, community traditions and intimate memories of our town over the last century, capturing information about Purcellville's past before it disappears. DVDs are available for purchase online and at The Town Hall for $15.

• The PPA is teaming up with Co-chairs Reggie Simms and Jay Johnson for The EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION event on Saturday September 20, 2008 at The Carver Center.  Gospel and blues music, children's activities and historic tours, lectures and film programs will be a part of the celebration.