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Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) introduced a resolution congratulating the city of Manassas on the 150th anniversary of its founding. The city’s rich and storied history began on April 1, 1873 when the Virginia General Assembly voted to incorporate the area on the land then known as “Manassas Junction” due to its location at the junction of the Orange, Alexandria, and Manassas Gap railroad lines.

“Congratulations to the City of Manassas on 150 years of history and growth as one of Virginia’s most diverse and vibrant communities,” said Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton. “As Manassas’ representative in Congress for the past four years, I’ve enjoyed every opportunity to visit the city’s historic landmarks, experience its rich cultural diversity, and get to know the incredible people who call it home. I wish the City of Manassas continued growth and success for its next 150 years and beyond.”

The resolution celebrates the city’s historical prominence, particularly during the Civil War era, rich diversity and cultural variety, and continued evolution and growth as a hub for tech business investment in the region. Key moments in the city’s 150 year history are also noted, including President Abraham Lincoln’s visit to the Liberia plantation, the founding of the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth by former slave Jennie Dean, and the preservation of the Manassas Local Historic District.

Manassas is the fifth most diverse locality in Virginia today, with the city’s public schools serving students whose families speak more than 27 languages. It has been an independent city since 1975 with a current population of more than 43,000 people.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

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