Hidden within Virginia and behind the noise of one of the busiest airports in the United States is the story of a once-promising town. Willard, an all-Black community, thrived in the early 1900s until it was wiped off the map to make room for Dulles International Airport. Established after the Civil War, Willard blossomed in an era when segregation was rampant, and opportunities for Black Americans were scarce.
Yet, the residents, many of whom were descendants of formerly enslaved people, forged a life for themselves. They built a close-knit community that saw many developments. The town had homes, farms, businesses, churches, and schools, creating a self-sufficient enclave in the heart of Virginia. Town residents worked primarily as farmers, laborers, and domestic workers, overcoming the hurdles of their time with remarkable fortitude.
The Displacement of a Community
However, this prosperity was short-lived. As the 20th century progressed, so did the ambitions of a nation looking skyward. The age of aviation was dawning, and with it came the need for a new major airport to serve the nation’s capital. The federal government set its sights on the rural expanse where Willard stood. They saw it as the perfect location for an airport catering to Washington, D.C.’s growing air traffic.
And so, the decision was reached to clear Willard and make space for development. In 1958, the government exercised its power of eminent domain, a legal principle that allows the state to expropriate private property for public use with compensation. For the people of Willard, this meant dismantling their homes, farms, and community spaces to make way for the airport’s construction.
The displacement of the Willard community highlights a recurring theme in American history. Over and over again, the advancement of infrastructure and industry often comes at the expense of marginalized communities. The residents of Willard were forced to leave behind not just their physical homes but also a legacy of self-sufficiency and community pride that had been generations in the making.
Remembering Willard
Today, Dulles International Airport is a booming gateway to the world. It serves millions of passengers annually. Its sleek terminals and sprawling runways are a far cry from Willard’s simple homes and fertile fields. Yet, the story of this all-Black town is an essential piece of the puzzle that makes up America’s complex history. Although Willard’s physical structures are long gone, the memory of the town and its people persists.
Efforts to recognize and honor the community’s history have been made, though more could be done. Still, historians and descendants of Willard’s residents continue working together to keep the story alive. And as for us travelers, we are often captivated by the destinations we visit. We place value in the new experiences we encounter and the convenience of modern infrastructure. Yet, it’s essential to pause, reflect, and remember the stories of places like Willard. These stories remind us of the many layers of history that paved our paths and the skies we traverse.
