In 1999, an archaeological quest to discover and uncover the foundation and remains of the 1750s Anglican Church at Elk Run, the first such church in Fauquier County, Virginia, was begun.  A total of 129 volunteers conducted this work over 5,803 hours between 1999 and 2006.  From 2006 until 2010 over 1,600 volunteer hours was needed to complete the construction of the museum and related supporting activities. A dedication ceremony for the new building held on November 14, 2010. A short church service was held within the outline of the old Church foundation for the first time in over 200 years.

The museum’s goal is to depict the history of the area (Native Americans and settlers), the Church and its first Minister, Rev. James Keith, grandfather of Chief Justice John Marshall. The museum also covers the seven year archaeological  effort and the site’s transition to a historic park.

In 1999, William C. Patton, Jacqueline E. Patton and Christina A. Patton graciously donated the property to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and then again donated the adjacent lot containing the Elk Run Church Cemetery in  November 20, 2011. The acquisition of this approximate 100 ft. by 100 ft. cemetery property added greatly to the historical significance of the Elk Run Church Site.

While the site remains under the ownership of St. Stephen’s, regularly scheduled open houses will now be conducted by the Fauquier County Parks and Recreation Department.  For more information call 530-422-8170 or send an email to [email protected].