Fairfield Foundation

The Fairfield Foundation's mission is to promote and involve the public in hands-on archaeology, preservation, and education activities within Virginia’s Middle Peninsula and surrounding areas. We are a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization offering public programs, research opportunities, and outreach activities since 2000. We operate five properties in Gloucester County: Fairfield Archaeology Park, Timberneck House at Machicomoco, the Center of Archaeology, Preservation, and Education (CAPE), Rosewell Ruins and Visitor Center, and Walter Reed Birthplace.

Archaeology With the help of many volunteers and generous donors, we investigate all aspects of our region’s history through a variety of hands-on excavation and lab opportunities. We strive to bring the past to life by helping the public see, question, and participate in the process of discovering history. Preservation We are committed to helping property owners, businesses, educational institutions, local governments, and the general public identify, learn about, and promote their historical resources, including buildings, archaeological sites, documents, and oral history, to ensure their survival for future generations. Education In addition to preserving historic and culturally significant artifacts, the Fairfield Foundation has established educational programs with local public and private schools in Gloucester, Mathews, Middlesex, and King William Counties, as well as in several neighboring cities and counties across the Middle Peninsula and beyond. We also host public education programs at parks and historic sites in the area, and work with scouting groups, civic organizations, and historical societies to broaden interest in Virginia’s history.