Gum Springs Historical Society Sign Replacement
On April 21, elected officials and Gum Springs residents unveiled a new historic sign at the intersection of Fordson Road and Richmond Highway which marks this historical community as part of Mount Vernon’s history. The original sign was destroyed by a car accident. The new sign is on a hill, above the roadway and hopefully out of danger. “It would take a Lamborghini going 100 miles per hour to knock that down,” joked Del. Paul Krizek (D-44th) who was among the local officials at the dedication.
Photo by Mike Salmon
Krizek reached out to Capital One Center about replacing the sign, and received a donation to cover the costs. Jonathan Griffith, Managing Director, Capital One Center, said a contribution like the sign falls in line with their corporate values of diversity, inclusion and belonging.
“It made natural sense to help out,” said Griffith.
The crowd at the roadside dedication included Queenie Cox, president of the Gum Springs civic association; Ron Chase, Founding Director, Gum Springs Museum; Reverend Charles Hall, Pastor, St. John Baptist Church; Jeff McKay, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors; Dan Storck, Mount Vernon District Supervisor; Jonathan Griffith, Managing Director, Capital One Center; and Rodney Lusk, Lee District Supervisor; as well as several Gum Springs residents.
Chairman McKay grew up in the Richmond Highway corridor as well. “This is home to me, and I know the rich tradition of Gum Springs,” McKay said.
About Capital One Center
Capital One Center, the public-facing portion of Capital One’s global headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, redefines mixed-use development by providing an arts-focused enriching indoor/outdoor experience. When fully built-out, this 6 million sq. foot entertainment destination will be home to a vibrant array of public art, performances, and retail, including a world-class performing arts center, Capital One Hall, a 2.5 acre skypark, The Perch, and 300-key boutique hotel, The Watermark. Capital One Center is thoughtfully designed to create a walkable campus where small steps lead to big experiences.
