S26-0506A, The Historical Development of Clifton, VA – A Walking Tour

Join us for Charles Rusnak’s presentation on Historic Clifton, as he leads us through the town’s evolution from its beginnings as a humble farming village and plantation, through the turbulence of the Civil War, and onward to its present role as a peaceful oasis within the metropolitan Washington area.
Our journey continues with a walking tour of Clifton, where we will visit several original homes and businesses that are integral to the community’s history and development. Each of these sites will feature a sign detailing key events in its past. The walking route covers approximately one mile and includes frequent stops to allow for immersive learning and reflection. To conclude the experience, attendees are invited to enjoy lunch at one of Clifton’s diverse local eateries.

Presenter: Mr. Charles Rusnak
After retiring from the Air Force, Charles Rusnak and his wife were looking for a quaint, quiet place to settle down and raise their two growing boys and settled in Clifton, where he has lived for 40+ years and enjoyed the old town feel of a place where people can still walk to the post office to pick up their mail and yet enjoy a French pastry in the morning sun. Clifton has often been referred to as “Brigadoon in Virginia,” also the title of a book describing the essence of life in a small Virginia town.
Through the years Charles has served on the Town Council, the Clifton Betterment Association and, since its inception in 2018, as president of the Art Guild Of Clifton. He is also a trustee for the restoration of the historical Primitive Baptist Church, established by freed black slaves after the Civil War. He is looking forward to sharing his knowledge and the history of the town as the class explores some of the oldest homes and buildings, telling their story.

LLI Coordinator: Kelly Espy