In 1757, Loudoun County was created from excerpts of the Virginia House of Burgesses. The permanent settlement of Loudoun began between 1725 and 1730, when the county was still part of Prince William and owned by Lord Fairfax. Immigrants obtained ninety-nine-year leases on the land at the rate of two shillings per 100 acres. Loudoun County was named in honor of Lord Loudoun, a representative pair of Scotland.
Immigrants had a major role in shaping the history of Loudoun County. They were responsible for settling the area and establishing it as a permanent settlement. They also provided much-needed labor for road improvements that made it easier to travel to and from Loudoun County. During the War of 1812, immigrants provided refuge for important state newspapers and even for President James Madison himself. Immigrants also had an impact on politics in Loudoun County.
Quakers and Germans were largely opposed to slavery and secession while those with more wealth were in favor. This division led to heated debates over secession that ultimately resulted in Loudoun County remaining part of Virginia. The contributions of immigrants to Loudoun County have been immense and long-lasting. They provided labor for road improvements, refuge during wartime, and political divisions that shaped its future. Without their contributions, Loudoun County would not be what it is today.
